Borg & Beck offers its advice on the importance of replacing cabin filters.
Replacing cabin filters when a vehicle is in for service is usually part of the service schedule, but it is often overlooked. Why? Many vehicle owners either don’t know they exist or what their purpose is. Therefore, they are not willing to pay for it to be replaced.
In any service, all filters should be replaced in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s schedule. During the spring months, it is particularly important to ensure that the cabin filter is functioning properly, especially as it will inevitably be worked harder over the summer.
Therefore, the added pressure of filtering out the harmful particles and contaminants could lead to decreased heating and air conditioning performance, unpleasant odours, and safety issues, as the windows may not be able to clear properly – especially when raining – affecting the vision of the driver.
If customers choose not to replace the cabin filter whilst the vehicle is in for its routine service, then it is imperative that they are made aware of the possible consequences. Clogged filters will reduce the amount of clean air entering the cabin, which can lead to the windows misting, plus they will notice a greater level of dust building up as it will be unable to be filtered out.
As a result, asthma and allergies may be triggered, the cabin can become stuffier (which can induce symptoms such as watering eyes, headaches, and nausea), and it could leave the driver feeling fatigued, which would affect concentration – another dangerous side effect.
Problems with the HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system can also develop, as it will come under pressure if the cabin filter is blocked. Micro-organisms will then begin accumulating in the cabin as moisture builds up in the captured particles. This can become a breeding ground for mould and bacteria, leading to the development of unpleasant odours.
To prevent these potential health and safety issues, technicians should be recommending filter replacement and, irrespective of these known problems, cabin filters should be automatically replaced every 12 months.
Information is key
To help your customers fully understand the health and safety issues surrounding improper maintenance of cabin filters, First Line, under its Borg & Beck brand, has produced a displayable poster to inform of the risks associated with cabin filters should they ignore the advice to regularly replace them.
To promote best practice in your workshop, simply get in touch with the First Line team via email to receive a copy for yourself: marketing@firstline.co.uk.
