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7 Best Cabin Air Filters (Reviews and Buying Guide 2020)

June 10, 2020 By //  by Nick Garcia Leave a Comment

This article lists some of the best cabin air filter choices available on the market today.

Replacing the cabin air filter in your vehicle can provide you and your passengers with cleaner air to breathe and thus inherently increase your life expectancy.

Best Cabin Air Filter (Updated List)

More than likely, you take care of replacing the engine air filter during routine maintenance and the cabin air filter doesn’t even cross your mind.

However, you may want to add that extra layer of protection to your maintenance list. The best cabin air filter is an important buffer between vehicle riders and pollutants such as dust, smog, pollen, and mold spores.

We have listed below several models worth looking into. However, before getting into the actual rankings, let’s look at the top three picks based on reliability, vehicle compatibility, and overall performance.

EPAuto CP285 (CF10285) Premium Cabin Air Filter includes...
POTAUTO MAP 3011C (CF11777) Activated Carbon Car Cabin Air Filter...
ECOGARD XC36115 Premium Cabin Air Filter Fits Subaru Forester...
EPAuto CP285 (CF10285)
POTAUTO MAP 3011C
ECOGARD XC36115
Dimensions
9.1 x 8.1 x 2.8 inches
10.24 x 6 x 1 inches
11.4 x 11 x 4.3 inches
Cleaning component
Activated carbon, Baking Soda
Active Carbon
Electrostatic Fibers
Replacement interval
12 months or 12,000 miles
Every 12 months or 12,000- 15,000 miles
12,000-15,000 miles
Star rating
-
-
-
Where to buy
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
Buy on Amazon
EPAuto CP285 (CF10285) Premium Cabin Air Filter includes...
EPAuto CP285 (CF10285)
Dimensions
9.1 x 8.1 x 2.8 inches
Cleaning component
Activated carbon, Baking Soda
Replacement interval
12 months or 12,000 miles
Star rating
-
Where to buy
Buy on Amazon
POTAUTO MAP 3011C (CF11777) Activated Carbon Car Cabin Air Filter...
POTAUTO MAP 3011C
Dimensions
10.24 x 6 x 1 inches
Cleaning component
Active Carbon
Replacement interval
Every 12 months or 12,000- 15,000 miles
Star rating
-
Where to buy
Buy on Amazon
ECOGARD XC36115 Premium Cabin Air Filter Fits Subaru Forester...
ECOGARD XC36115
Dimensions
11.4 x 11 x 4.3 inches
Cleaning component
Electrostatic Fibers
Replacement interval
12,000-15,000 miles
Star rating
-
Where to buy
Buy on Amazon

7. Spearhead Premium Breathe Easy Cabin Filter

Spearhead Odor Defense Breathe Easy Cabin Filter, Fits Like OEM,...
Spearhead Odor Defense Breathe Easy Cabin Filter, Fits Like OEM,...
  • Up to 25% Longer Life: Precision woven and infused with real coconut shell activated carbon, our Breathe...
  • 2X Heavier vs. Standard Cabin Filters: We use thick, industrial strength electrostatic media to attract...
  • Enjoy Crisp, Clean Countryside Air: Road debris, exhaust fumes, nasty odors and common irritants must...
Buy on Amazon

Specifications:

  • Brand: Spearhead
  • Dimensions: Comes in variable sizes
  • Item Number: BE-811
  • Cleaning Component: Dust, anti-microbial, and absorption filters
  • Brand Replacement: Various
  • Replacement Interval: 14 months or 15,000 miles
Spearhead Premium Breathe Easy Cabin Filter

Coming in a wide variety of different sizes for all types and brands of vehicles, the Spearhead Premium Cabin Air Filter goes a long way to ensure top-notch air quality.

It’s twice as heavy as standard cabin air filters, making it far more durable and reliable. The Spearhead Breathe Easy Filter uses industrial strength electrostatic media to trap even the tiniest of particles while the densely packed activated carbon prevents gases and odors.

Pros
Honeycombed charcoal weaves are engineered to last up to 15,000 miles
Road debris, exhaust fumes, and allergens go through 3 layers of filtration
Comes with an attractive money-back guarantee
It comes at an affordable price considering it lasts slightly longer than other filters
Cons
It’s not clear at first which side is the right side to insert to the slot
The filter has less plies than the original OEM versions
Read User Reviews

Verdict

We like the Spearhead Premium Breathe Easy Cabin Filter because it comes in varying sizes to fit as many vehicles as possible.

When you click on the above link, simply enter the specific size for your vehicle and add it to your cart for easy, reliable installation.


6. Purolator C36179 Single Cabin Air Filter

Purolator C36179 PurolatorONE Advanced Cabin Air Filter...
Purolator C36179 PurolatorONE Advanced Cabin Air Filter...
  • Captures airborne particulates that have been known to cause respiratory issues
  • Electrostatically charged, micro-woven fiber layers remove even microscopic particles like dirt, dust and...
  • Improves vehicle HVAC and defroster performance
Buy on Amazon

Specifications:

  • Brand: Purolator
  • Dimensions: 12.6 x 9.4 x 1.3 inches
  • Item Number: C36179
  • Cleaning Component: Multi-Fiber High-Density Non-Woven Media
  • Brand Replacement: Various
  • Replacement Interval: 12 months or 12,000 miles
Purolator C36179 Single Cabin Air Filter

Offering better airflow for your A/C system, the Purolator C36179 will most likely increase energy efficiency in time.

Designed with multiple fiber layers to remove even the smallest particles, it provides clean, filtered air to the entire cabin, thus increasing you and your passenger’s lung health by a large margin.

The Purolator Single Cabin Air Filter is relatively easy to install, although it might feel flimsy at times. Nevertheless, its large compatibility with numerous vehicles, decent price, and efficiency make it a bargain deal for many people.

Pros
It’s decently priced for how long it lasts
Particulate layer restricts entry of large airborne particles into the A/C system
Reduces the dust that accumulates inside your car and helps to keep it cleaner
Includes detailed installation instructions for a wide range of cars
Cons
For some people, it kept compressing during installation
There are far better options out there
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The Purolator C36179 Single Cabin Air Filter provides clean and fresh air inside a variety of cars’ interior cabin.

Not only that, but it also improves the A/C system and defroster’s performance by a large margin because it enhances air flow.


5. K&N VF2005 Washable & Reusable Air Filter

K&N Cabin Air Filter: Premium, Washable, Clean Airflow to your...
K&N Cabin Air Filter: Premium, Washable, Clean Airflow to your...
  • K&N Filters VF2005 Cabin Air Filter; H-0.75 in.; L-8.063 in.;
Buy on Amazon

Specifications:

  • Brand: K&N
  • Dimensions: 10 x 2 x 11 inches
  • Item Number: VF2005
  • Cleaning Component: Electrostatically charged
  • Brand Replacement: Various
  • Replacement Interval: 50,000 miles between servicing, depending on driving conditions
best K&N VF2005 washable reusable cabin air filter

If you want a filter that greatly improves airflow efficiency, one of your best bets is the K&N VF2005.

This extremely long-lasting filter outlives all others because you can wash it every 6 months and reuse it up to 50,000 miles in total.

Plus, there’s no need to oil it or use a special cleaning kit. You can, however, purchase an anti-microbial spray if you like. Furthermore, the K&N VF2005 Cabin Air Filter captures contaminants that cause odors, making your car’s interior smell much nicer than ever before.

Pros
Incredible quality that guarantees superior performance for many years to come
You can use a freshening spray right on the filter to add a pleasant aroma
Since it is rewashable, you will save a lot of money in the long run
Pre-treated and ready to drop into your factory air box
Ten-year and one million miles warranty makes the purchase even more valuable
Cons
The price might turn off some people
You might notice a strange smell the first week of use
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The K&N VF2005 Washable & Reusable Air Filter is an extremely valuable purchase for any car owner who wants their cabin air to be as clean as possible.

Since the company offers a 10-year, million-mile warranty, you can rest assured that your investment will have been worth it despite the initial asking price.


4. FRAM CF10134 Fresh Breeze Cabin Air Filter

FRAM Fresh Breeze Cabin Air Filter Replacement for Car Passenger...
FRAM Fresh Breeze Cabin Air Filter Replacement for Car Passenger...
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: HONDA ACCORD; 2006-2015 HONDA CIVIC; 2012-2015 HONDA CROSSTOUR; 2007-2016 HONDA...
  • VEHICLE APPICATIONS CONT: 2007-2011 ACURA CSX; 2013-2022 ACURA ILX; 2007-2020 ACURA MDX; 2007-2018 ACURA...
  • FILTER CROSS REFERENCES: BOSCH P3875WS; Honda (80219-SHJ-A01, 80292-SDA-407, 80292-SDA-A01); K&N VF2001;...
Buy on Amazon

Specifications:

  • Brand: Fram
  • Dimensions: 10 x 2 x 10 inches
  • Item Number: CF10134
  • Cleaning Component: Baking Soda, Carbon
  • Brand Replacement: N/A
  • Replacement Interval: 12,000-15,000 miles
best fram cf10134 cabin air filter

Baking soda and carbon do an excellent job of cleaning the air coming inside the cabin. And the FRAM CF10134 has both.

It’s rated at a 98% efficiency of trapping dust, pollen, and other contaminants. The filter also prevents damaging particles from entering even the highest horsepower engine and causing expensive damage.

One thing that sets the FRAM CF10134 apart from other best cabin air filter units is that it not only comes with an instruction manual, but also with QR codes that redirect you to instructional videos for an even more seamless installation experience.

Pros
Enjoy a fresher experience due to the included Arm & Hammer brand baking soda to help absorb bad odors
Every box includes easy to follow instructions that you can download by means of a QR code
Compatible with a large number of cars from different manufacturers
It blocks not only regular contaminants, but also allergens such as pollen
Cons
While it’s still at a decent price poin, it’s slighly more expensive than comparable filters
Does not fit as tightly as other brand options on the market
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The FRAM CF10134 Fresh Breeze Cabin Air Filter is one of the best cabin air filter units for the price.

Although there are less expensive options, this one filters a ton of pollutants and allergens while also being able to fit in a wide variety of car types from different manufacturers.


3. ECOGARD XC36115 Premium Cabin Air Filter

ECOGARD XC36115 Premium Cabin Air Filter Fits Subaru Forester...
ECOGARD XC36115 Premium Cabin Air Filter Fits Subaru Forester...
  • COMPATIBLE with Subaru Forester 2009-2018, Impreza 2008-2016, XV Crosstrek 2013-2015, Crosstrek...
  • DOES NOT fit 2017 and 2018 Subaru Impreza, instead use ECOGARD XC10622.
  • REPLACES ACDELCO CF3304, FRAM CF10930, PUROLATOR C36115, SUBARU 72880-FG000, WIX 24030
Buy on Amazon

Specifications:

  • Brand: ECOGARD
  • Dimensions: 11.4 x 11 x 4.3 inches
  • Item Number: XC36115
  • Cleaning Component: Electrostatic Fibers
  • Brand Replacement: Subaru
  • Replacement Interval: 12,000-15,000 miles
best ecogard xc36115 cabin air filter

Compatible with many Subaru models, the ECOGARD XC36115 Premium Cabin Air Filter removes 99.5% of all dust, pollen, air pollution, allergens, pet dander, and other airborne contaminants.

It comes at a highly affordable price and it helps prevent premature wear on your car’s HVAC. On most cars, it only takes a few minutes to install, and the instruction manual is well-written, giving you a step by step, easy-to-follow tutorial.

While it’s not much better than an OEM model, it’s sufficient for a needed replacement. The ECOGARD XC36115 is specifically engineered to replace Subaru original equipment, but it also works with other vehicles as well and you can check the compatibility directly on the product page.

Pros
A clean filter will prevent your air conditioner from working too hard or burning out the motor due to a blocked filter
Simple installation can be done quickly- often within 10 minutes, and with few tools
It offers massive savings compared to a dealership exchange since replacing Subaru parts is often expensive
Although the manual doesn’t specify it, this filter is easily washable and reusable
Cons
Some later Impreza models don’t support this filter
Retention tabs can be subpar, allowing vibration to jiggle the filter loose on some vehicles
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The ECOGARD XC36115 Premium Cabin Air Filter is an excellent choice for most Subaru owners.

We like the fact that it’s rewashable and reusable, so it adds even more value for the already highly affordable price tag.


2. POTAUTO MAP 3011C

POTAUTO MAP 3011C (CF11777) Activated Carbon Car Cabin Air Filter...
POTAUTO MAP 3011C (CF11777) Activated Carbon Car Cabin Air Filter...
  • ▼ Spec.: 10.24" (Length), 6" (Width), 1" (Height); Four-layer fabric (One Carbon Layer); Installation...
  • ▼ Applications Where Used: (WRANGLER 11-18, WRANGLER JK 18) (See Amazon Part Finder for fitments to...
  • ▼ Benefits: (1) Reducing at least 98% of these contaminants (Dust, Exhaust Gas...etc.) from the air...
Buy on Amazon

Specifications:

  • Brand: Potauto
  • Dimensions: 10.24 x 6 x 1 inches
  • Item Number: 3011C
  • Cleaning Component: Active Carbon
  • Brand Replacement: MANN & HUMMEL CU15001, NAPA 4012
  • Replacement Interval: Every 12 months or 12,000- 15,000 miles
best potauto map 3011c cabin air filter

Our second choice for the best cabin air filter is the POTAUTO MAP 3011C, which offers protection against small particles and bigger pollutants such as leaves as well.

The POTAUTO MAP 3011C comes with a thick four-layer fabric that is able to eliminate up to 98% of all contaminants. Finding a cabin air filter that covers so many types of pollutants such as this one is hard in itself, especially when considering the ridiculously low price.

We like that it comes with a clear instruction manual that guides you through the installation process step by step. And we also like that it’s compatible with a wide range of vehicles. You can check the compatibility directly on the product page.

Pros
This cabin air filter fits nice and tight
Great quality filter at a low-cost point when compared to dealer installation pricing. Buy this and replace it yourself for incredible savings
Compatible with a wide range of vehicles
It comes in two variants
Cons
Doesn’t include an air freshner
Isn’t too intuitive to install, so you will want to check the manual
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The POTAUTO MAP 3011C is a cheap yet reliable cabin air filter that fits many vehicle models.

We recommend it for anyone who wants an affordable method of purifying the air in their car cabin.


1. Best cabin air filter: EPAuto CP285 (CF10285)

EPAuto CP285 (CF10285) Premium Cabin Air Filter includes...
EPAuto CP285 (CF10285) Premium Cabin Air Filter includes...
  • Clean air for driver and passengers
  • Contains soda and carbon to generate fresh breeze air
  • Enhanced HVAC performance, Recommended replacement every 12 months or 12,000 miles.
Buy on Amazon

Specifications:

  • Brand: EPAuto
  • Dimensions: 9.1 x 8.1 x 2.8 inches
  • Item Number: CP285
  • Cleaning Component: Activated carbon, Baking Soda
  • Brand Replacement: Replacement for FRAM CF10285
  • Replace Interval: 12 months or 12,000 miles
best epauto cp285 cabin air filter

If you want the absolute best cabin air filter you can find, this product will more than satisfy your needs.

The EPAuto CP285 cabin air filter is compatible with a wide range of car brands and models. Even if you have an older car, chances are it will fit right in. As for newer models, it’s compatible even with vehicles made in 2019 and even 2020.

Users like the EPAuto CP285 because it lasts long and performs as advertised. They also love the fact that they save a ton of money because they’re able to install it themselves. Going to a car repair shop usually costs tens of dollars extra for a simple installation, so this is a great money saver.

Pros
This filter has both carbon and baking soda to filter and refresh your cabin air, many other products only contain one
Very inexpensive for a filter that works so well. Other filters are only as good as OEM filters and do not have an air freshening agent included
Comptible with a wide range of car brands, such as Toyota, Lexus, Subaru, Jaguar, and many more
Easily installable by hand
Cons
It only ha 13 pleats, unlike the promotional picture which shows 19
The material is a bit thicker than other products causing a reduction in airflow
Read User Reviews

Verdict

The EPAuto cabin air filter is easy to install and does a phenomenal job.

Since you only need to replace it once per year or once every 12,000 miles, you’ll save even more money in the long run, not just on a dealership installation.


Other car maintenance tips

Since you are here, you’re probably wondering what else you can do to improve your driving experience and your car’s lifespan.

Your car’s exterior is just as important as the interior, so pay attention to what foam cannon you get for washing your vehicle.

And to prevent your car from getting scratched easily, we also recommend looking into the best car waxes.


Final thoughts on the best cabin air filter

Replacing a regular filter with the best cabin air filter for your vehicle will net you a ton of benefits.

Cleaner air and means healthier lungs, which in turn increases your lifespan and that of the passengers who regularly ride in your vehicle. And since you care for yourself and your family, check out other garage tools that will enhance your car’s safety.

Filed Under: Garage Products Guides

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