Imagine driving your BMW 3 Series e90 on a beautiful day, the sun is shining, and the air is fresh. But what if the air inside your car isn’t as clean as you think? That’s where the cabin air filter comes into play.
This unsung hero of your vehicle’s HVAC system works tirelessly to ensure the air you breathe inside your car is free from harmful pollutants, including pollen, dust, debris, and allergens. Regular replacement of the cabin air filter is crucial. Over time, the filter becomes clogged.
When this happens, the air quality inside your vehicle can deteriorate, potentially affecting your health and comfort. Plus, a dirty filter can put extra strain on your car’s HVAC system, leading to decreased performance and increased fuel consumption.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of locating and replacing the cabin air filter. So, buckle up and let’s get started!
Locating the Cabin Air Filter and replacing it
Now, let’s get down to business. Where exactly is the cabin air filter located in your BMW 3 Series e90? Here is how to access and replace it.
- Open the hood: Pop the hood of your BMW 3 Series e90 and secure it in place with the hood prop rod.
- Locate the cabin air filter housing: The cabin air filter housing is located over the width of the windshield, under a plastic cover.
- Remove the cover: Depending on your model year, you might need to unscrew a few fasteners or unclip the plastic cover to access the cabin air filter housing.
- Open the housing: Once you’ve removed the cowl cover or panel, you should see the cabin air filter housing. It may have a series of clips or screws holding it together.
- Replace the cabin air filter: Open the housing, and you’ll find the old cabin air filter inside. Remove the old filter and replace it with a new one. Ensure that the new filter is oriented in the correct direction, following any airflow direction arrows indicated on the filter.
- Reassemble: After replacing the cabin air filter, put the housing back together, and reattach the cowl cover or panel. Make sure all fasteners are secure.
That’s it! Now you’ve successfully replaced the cabin air filter in your BMW 3 Series e90. Always consult your vehicle’s manual for specific instructions and diagrams relevant to your particular model year, as there might be slight variations in the process.
For those in favor of viewing a video instead of reading, there’s a video by SimpleCarGuy on Youtube that explains it all.
Always make sure you have the right replacement filter for your BMW 3 Series e90. Not all filters are created equal. Consider factors such as filtration efficiency, fit, and quality. You can purchase replacement filters from auto parts stores, online retailers, or directly from BMW.
Replacing the cabin air filter in your BMW 3 Series e90 is a relatively straightforward process. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, it’s always best to seek professional help.
Understanding Cabin Air Filters
What exactly is a cabin air filter? It’s an essential component of your vehicle’s ventilation system. Unlike the engine air filter, which cleans the air entering the engine, the cabin air filter purifies the air that circulates inside the passenger compartment.
The primary function of the cabin air filter is to keep the air inside your car clean and free from pollutants. It’s designed to remove up to 99.995 percent of airborne contaminants down to 0.1-0.3 microns. To put that into perspective, a single strand of human hair is about 70 microns in diameter!
So, how do you know when it’s time to replace your cabin air filter? Some signs include a musty odor in the car, reduced airflow through the HVAC system, and increased noise from the fans. If you notice any of these symptoms, it might be time to check your cabin air filter.
BMW recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions. However, if you frequently drive in heavy traffic or dusty conditions, you might need to replace it more often. Always refer to your vehicle’s manual for the recommended replacement interval.
Benefits of Regular Cabin Air Filter Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your cabin air filter offers several benefits. First and foremost, it improves the air quality inside your car, providing a healthier and more comfortable environment for you and your passengers.
This is especially important for people with allergies or respiratory conditions.
A clean cabin air filter also enhances the performance and efficiency of your car’s HVAC system. It allows the system to deliver optimal heating and cooling performance, ensuring your comfort in all weather conditions. Plus, it can help prevent potential damage to other vehicle components by reducing the strain on the HVAC system.
When to Seek Professional Help
While replacing the cabin air filter is a task many car owners can handle themselves, there are times when it’s best to seek professional help.
If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, if the filter is difficult to access, or if you suspect there might be a more significant issue with your car’s HVAC system, it’s time to call a mechanic.
Signs of more significant issues might include persistent bad odors, poor heating or cooling performance, or unusual noises from the HVAC system. These could indicate problems beyond a dirty cabin air filter, such as a malfunctioning blower motor or a leak in the system.
