By Lighthouse Automotive • November 2025
Like you, your car needs to breathe to survive. Your car's filters, like your lungs, must be kept clean to ensure optimal operation. Despite their tiny size and inexpensive cost, air and cabin filters have a significant impact on your vehicle's comfort, efficiency, and performance.
Whether you're driving through Manteo, touring the Outer Banks, or embarking on a road trip, clean filters allow your car, and you, to breathe better.
What Are the Functions of the Cabin and Air Filters?
Your vehicle has two filters that simultaneously work together to not only keep your engine properly functioning, but to also keep you comfortable:
- Engine Air Filter: Eliminates dust, dirt, and debris before the air reaches your engine, protecting components and promoting strong performance.
- Cabin Air Filter: Cleans the air that goes through your vehicle’s interior through the HVAC system, capturing pollutants, allergens, and odors to keep the air you breathe desirable and clean.
Both filters, one for the car itself and one for you, protect essential systems that keep your vehicle running smoothly and you breathing comfortably.
Why Clean Filters Matter
Better Performance & Fuel Efficiency
A blocked air filter reduces airflow to your engine, causing it to work harder and use more gasoline. Prioritizeing replacing it on a regular basis allows your engine to breathe more efficiently, improving performance and gas mileage.
Cleaner Air Inside Your Vehicle
Your cabin filter captures dust, pollen, and exhaust fumes before they enter your vehicle. A clean filter offers cleaner, healthier air, which is especially good for those susceptible to allergies and asthma.
Longer Engine Life
Dirt and debris are among of an engine's most formidable competitors. A clean air filter keeps these particles out of the combustion chamber, minimizing wear and avoiding costly repairs.
Odor Control & Comfort
If your air conditioner smells musty or the airflow is poor, it's time to replace the cabin filter. A new one eliminates odors while restoring clean, constant ventilation.
How Often Should You Replace Them?
Most air and cabin filters should be updated every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, however driving conditions in Manteo and the Outer Banks may affect this schedule.
If you drive through construction zones, beach sand, or heavy traffic, you may need to repair them more frequently.
Watch for these signs your filters need attention:
- Restricted airflow from your vents
- Musty or undesirable odors
- Slower acceleration or reduced fuel efficiency
- Visible dirt or debris on the filter
Quick Tip
Ask your technician to inspect both filters at each oil change; it's one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to preserve your car and keep you breathing pure air.
Check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended replacement schedule.
Final Thoughts
Your vehicle's filters function as lungs: when they're clean, your engine runs smoother, lasts longer, and keeps the cabin air fresh. Neglecting them might result in poor performance, increased fuel expenditures, and premature wear.
Lighthouse Automotive's licensed technicians inspect your air and cabin filters at each service and notify you when it's time for a replacement. Whether you're cruising near the sea or getting ready for a road trip, we'll help you and your vehicle breathe easily.
Visit Us at Either Location:
Lighthouse Automotive – North
106 US-64, Manteo, NC 27954
Lighthouse Automotive – South
539 NC Hwy 345, Manteo, NC 27954
Breathe easy, Schedule your appointment today with Lighthouse Automotive today to keep your car's (and your) lungs clean.