Most people notice when their car’s air conditioning stops working well. It might blow warm air, produce strange odours, or just seem weaker than usual. These are often signs that the cabin air filter needs attention. Knowing how to clean air conditioning filter in a car is one of those simple tasks that can improve your driving experience more than you’d expect.
Air conditioning filters are easy to forget about. They sit out of sight, but over time, they collect dust, leaves, and even bits of mould. AC filter cleaning regularly helps your AC work more efficiently, keeps the air inside the car fresh, and saves you money on future repairs.
Also Read: How Much Should A Timing Belt Replacement Cost In Perth?
What Does The Air Conditioning Filter Do?
The air inside your car is kept clean by this filter. As air comes into the cabin, the filter traps dirt, pollen, smoke, and other particles. If the filter is blocked, it cannot do its job well.
That’s why drivers who care about air quality, especially in warmer or dusty areas, take time to clean or change this filter. Ignoring it leads to problems—not just with cooling, but with how the car feels and smells from the aircon in car.
You might also notice your car air conditioning smells bad. That odour can come from trapped moisture or a buildup of bacteria in the filter or vents. Cleaning the filter won’t fix everything, but it’s usually the first and easiest step to take.
Signs the Filter Needs Cleaning or Replacement
You don’t always need a mechanic to tell you something is wrong. The air filter usually gives a few clear warnings when it’s overdue for a cleaning. These signs are often easy to notice if you pay attention. Look out for the following:
1. Weak airflow from the vents
2. Strange or musty smells when the AC runs
3. More dust on your dashboard or seats than usual
4. Windows fogging up quickly.
5. You or your passengers start sneezing or coughing often.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s a good time to clean the filter. In some cases, you may need a new one instead of cleaning the old one.
Step-by-Step: How To Clean Air Conditioner Filter in a Car?
The process of car ac cleaning is not as complicated as it sounds. You don’t need a lot of tools, and you can do most of it in your driveway. Even first-time car owners can manage this with a bit of patience.
Step 1: Find the Filter
In many cars, the cabin filter is located behind the glovebox. Sometimes, it’s under the dashboard or even under the hood. If you don’t know where it is, check your car’s manual or search “how to clean ac air filter in car” along with your car model online.
Step 2: Remove the Filter
Open the compartment and gently pull the filter out. Try not to shake it too much, or dust might fly into the cabin.
Step 3: Inspect It
If the filter is light grey and dusty, it’s worth cleaning. If it’s dark or smells bad, then cleaning might not help. In that case, look into replacing your car cabin filter instead.
Step 4: Clean It Properly
Tap the filter to remove loose dust. Use a handheld vacuum or soft brush to remove any fine dirt stuck in the folds. If the filter is washable, you can rinse it with warm water and mild soap. Let it dry completely before putting it back in.
If the filter isn’t washable, skip the water. Using water on the wrong kind of filter can damage it and make things worse.
What To Do After Cleaning the Filter?
Once the filter is dry and back in place, run your AC for a few minutes with the windows down. This helps clear out any dust that may still be in the system.
You might also want to use a car air conditioner cleaner to spray inside the vents. This can help reduce smells and remove bacteria from inside the AC system.
If smells come back quickly, the issue might be deeper in the system. In that case, car AC duct cleaning may be needed. Mechanics can clean out the parts of the AC you can’t reach at home.
How To Keep Your Car Aircon Clean Longer?
Here are a few simple habits that help in keeping clean air conditioning filter longer. These steps are easy to follow and can be added to your regular car care routine without much effort.
1. Avoid running the AC when parked under trees.
2. Keep the windows closed when driving through dusty areas.
3. Use a car AC vent cleaner once a month.
4. Park in shaded areas to reduce moisture buildup
5. Don’t forget to clean the inside of your car regularly.
Some drivers also use an auto-cleaner spray every few months to keep things fresh.
Should You Call a Mechanic?
Most people can clean or change the filter themselves. But if your AC is still weak, noisy, or smelly after filter cleaning, you might need help from a mechanic. Sometimes, deeper parts of the system get clogged or mouldy.
If you don’t have time to visit a workshop, a 24/7 mobile mechanic can come to you. Services like MOBILE MECHANIC PERTH offer on-site inspections and mobile car repairs. You don’t even need to leave your driveway.
If you want your car to feel like new again, some people choose a complete car aircon cleaning or even combine it with a mobile car cleaning service.
For those wanting more than a filter swap, the best car detailing Perth teams often offer air conditioning services as part of their full vehicle care.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to clean air conditioning filter is one of the easiest ways to care for your vehicle. A clean filter helps the AC work better, keeps the air fresh, and reduces strain on the system. It also saves you money by avoiding more serious repairs later.
If you’re unsure or short on time, calling a reliable service like MOBILE MECHANIC PERTH is a wise choice. We offer 24 hour mobile mechanic support, so you don’t need to travel to get your AC sorted. Whether it’s filter cleaning, duct inspection, or complete car servicing, our team brings expert help straight to your home.
Take a simple step today to breathe easier every time you drive.
FAQs
1. How often should I clean the AC filter?
Answer:
Every 15,000 to 25,000 km is a good rule. If you drive in dusty areas, check it every 10,000 km.
2. Can I clean all types of filters?
Answer:
Only reusable filters can be cleaned. Paper filters should be replaced when dirty.
3. What causes the AC to smell bad?
Answer:
Smells usually come from mould or bacteria inside the ducts or on the filter. Cleaning helps remove the source of the car’s air conditioning smell.
4. What is the best way to clean the AC filter at home?
Answer:
Tap it gently, vacuum the dust, and rinse it if it’s washable. Dry it thoroughly before using it again.
5. What if the air still smells bad after cleaning?
Answer:
If cleaning the filter doesn’t help, you may need car AC duct cleaning or a complete system flush.
