Cabin Air Filter conundrum.

Instrument 41 · 08-13-2021, 05:40 AM

In GM's scheme to save a few penny's, on 2008 to 2014 Trucks, and SUV;s that did not install cabin air filters. So in order to install a filter you have to cut out the bottom of the case, where there is room for a filter install. So, my question in this effort is regarding the specific's a said filter assembly. Can I use a air filter designed for home use, cut out a pieces that fits directly into that slot? I know that the "construction" of said filter would not have a border that surrounds a filter and there might be a slight gap on each side where the filter might not meet up with the edge of the cased ID. In the replacement filters I have used that entire assembly fit really snug. Now considering that there is currently nothing to protect the core something is better than nothing?? what say the think tank?

LEAKYSEALS951 · 06:03 AM

Depends on what you are trying to do.
Trying to keep the core clean? Trying to keep out pollen? Both?

I replaced the cabin filter on my car last night. Fun times. While I was watching a YT video on how to access the location, I couldn't help but balk a bit at the announcer...

You NEED to change your filter to keep out environmental toxins and unhealthy air.
"My god!?!?!?" I thought, how did people survive before cabin air filters became the norm? Should I put on my n95 mask? My 911 doesn't have a filter. Am I safe? Egads. the horror!

If you are trying to keep the core clean, since the truck/suv is already got some years on it, it's already got smutz in the system. If there was an easy way, I'd try to blow compressed air in reverse through the core.

Probably not feasible. Even if you were to make the access hole, and then clean the core from there, it might get at some of the debri/ dead squirrels.

Trying to keep out pollen/dust? Put in the filter and seal it best as possible. Some adhesive foam strips should fill in the gaps, and release formaldehyde to makeup for all the fresh air you'll now be breathing.
Good luck.

Instrument 41 · 08-13-2021, 06:09 AM

Not really looking for a clean room atmosphere, just wanting to keep the core protected. I have used the spry in cleaners in the unit before but would like to add a filter to the system. It is a 2014 Suburban with 98K miles. The biggest question in this is what effect would occur if the filter didn't cover the entire area? what effect would that have on its purpose. Not talking about 1Gap but something much smaller.

stevej37 · 08-13-2021, 06:23 AM

Not sure as to your questions.
I have two Hondas..a 2010 Fit with a cabin filter and a 1998 Prelude with no cabin filter.
Both have ac and the 98 works just as well or better than the 10
I have never noticed any pollen or dust in the 98.

ckelly78z · 08-13-2021, 06:23 AM

I don't believe I have ever owned a vehicle with a cabin air filter, somehow, I am still alive.

Instrument 41 · 08-13-2021, 06:37 AM

The purpose is not for my own life extension....but the protect the evaporator core from premeasure failure due to the build up of particles on its surface. Remember, In Louisiana we run the AC 12 months out of the year. condensate and dust create a nice coating on that surface.