Why does my car smell? Musty car odor means it's time to change this filter

USA Today

29-04-2025

Why does my car smell? Musty car odor means it's time to change this filter If your car smells like rotten eggs, you aren't alone. Keep your cabin air fresh by learning this easy maintenance procedure.
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Millions of Americans have experienced foul car odors from dirty air filters.
Cabin air filters are affordable and easy to replace with the right guidance.
Change your cabin air filter before cranking up your car A.C. to avoid musty car smells.
Does your car reek? If you've noticed a foul odor in the interior of your vehicle, don't fret. You, like millions of other Americans, probably need to change your cabin air filter this spring. It's a quick, easy, and affordable way to ensure that your car's air conditioning unit is pushing the cleanest air possible into the passenger cabin.
Spring cleaning doesn't have to stop at your home. Some basic car maintenance can guarantee you have the safest, most pleasant driving experience possible as we head towards the summer.
What is a cabin air filter?
A cabin air filter is a filter that acts to capture dust, pollen, and pollutants in the air, so your vehicle brings clean air into the cabin. If your cabin air filter is dirty or moldy, you risk serious foul odors as well as inhaling harmful pollutants. Your local mechanic shop will happily offer to change this filter for you during oil changes. On the other hand, if you want to change your cabin air filter sooner, for less money, it's much more simple than most Americans realize.
Your car's cabin air filter will need changing at least once a year. Additionally, it's important to have a clean filter if you plan on cranking up the air conditioning while driving this spring and summer.
How much does a cabin air filter cost?
Basic cabin air filters can cost anywhere between $10 and $20. Filters from original equipment manufacturers (car brands) tend to be more expensive. Auto mechanics will often attempt to upsell the OEM air filters. While there isn't enough of a difference to justify purchasing the more expensive filters for most drivers, the choice is yours, especially if you're changing the filter yourself on your own time.
The easiest way to find the appropriate cabin air filter for your vehicle online is simply by searching for the term "cabin air filter" for your specific year/make/model. For example, my 2018 Honda Civic EX is compatible with cabin air filters from several brands including STP ($19.99) and K&N (44.99) according to AutoZone.com. I can get this particular cabin air filter shipped directly to my residence or add it to a cart and pick it up at my local AutoZone. Most auto parts shops carry cabin air filters.
Amazon also offers several affordable options from various brands starting from $9.99. So, you can score a new cabin air filter for under $20 in most cases and skip any installation/labor cost by doing it yourself.
How to change a cabin air filter
The first step is to locate your cabin air filter via a quick web search using your car's year/make/model. Most cabin air filters are tucked behind glove compartments.
If your filter is behind your glove box, carefully remove the glove box completely by applying mild pressure to the sides of it when it's fully open. This pressure will help pop the glove box out of place, leaving the filter cover exposed. Place your glove box aside and uncover the filter.
Once you can access the filter, remove it completely. Your new filter will include directions informing you which side should be facing towards the flow of air. Then, just pop the filter cover back on and you're good to go. The entire process should take no longer than a few minutes and it'll easily save you a few bucks.