The Best Car Air Filters of 2022

The ACDelco cabin air filter consists of a three-layer media that promises to filter out pollutants such as dust and pollen. It’s a non-woven filter that captures more particles while increasing airflow within the car’s AC.

The three layers work effectively together to capture both large and small particles. Larger pollutant particles will be caught in the first layer, while the middle layer captures small particles. Fumes and unpleasant odors will also be removed to give you and your passengers a pleasant ride.

Because of the different layers, the filter separates the pollutants and contains them much better, so nothing escapes. This filter was made to fit General Motors (GM) vehicles, so before buying, make sure it will fit your car.

You get great value for money since the filter is durable and works very efficiently. Most customers were pleased with how easy it was to install, even for those who claimed not to be as knowledgeable.

The CP285 is an excellent filter if you want fresh air within your car. It uses a carbon and baking soda filter to enhance the air quality and remove unpleasant odors and fumes.

Both carbon and baking soda are highly effective at absorbing odors. It’s often recommended to place an open box of baking soda inside your car to absorb bad odors. Here, it’s inside the air system of your car, removing any odor before it makes its way into the cabin.

One of the best things about this filter is that it fits a variety of cars and models. It’s easy to install and lasts a long time. Replacing the filter is also inexpensive as it’s highly affordable and offers great value for money.

EPAuto recommends that the filter is changed every 12 months or 12,000 miles. Depending on how much it’s used, replacing it once a year is easily done without taking a huge chunk out of your wallet.

There has been a bit of confusion going around due to the “up” arrows on the filter. Many users confused this with an indication of airflow. However, when installing, the arrows should be pointing up.

The Kootek CF10285 filter was made to capture pollutants such as pollen and dust. The tightly packed pleats capture particles ranging in size between 5 and 100 microns.

Within the pleats, you will find carbon and baking soda. These will effectively absorb bad odors before they enter your car cabin. The filter will also help to enhance the HVAC performance in your car.

It fits a range of different cars including Toyota, Lexus, Pontiac, Scion and Subaru. Installation is a breeze, and you get full instructions on how to complete the job correctly.

This filter is recommended to be replaced every 12 months or 12,000 miles. Although it’s slightly higher-priced compared to the previous ones on our list, it’s still affordable in the long run.

A common problem with this filter is restricted airflow. A few customers noticed that they had to turn their AC up slightly higher to get the same flow as usual.

If you want a very thorough filter, this is it. The EcoGard Premium Cabin Air Filter effectively captures and removes up to 99.5 percent of pollutants. This includes dust, pollen, allergens, pet dander and other contaminants, which makes this an excellent choice for family cars.

It helps to promote good airflow within your car’s HVAC system, and it can help to prevent premature wear. Unlike other filters with a limited life, this one is recommended to be used until airflow is compromised. However, the manufacturer recommends that you change the filter once in spring and once in fall.

The price is highly affordable, and the easy installation makes it very user-friendly. It was specifically made and tested for Honda Original Equipment.

Honda owners have complimented the filter for providing excellent airflow while removing musty odors.

The Breathe Easy filter uses a honeycombed charcoal weave that is thick and traps even the tiniest particles. The three-stage filtration system effectively removes road debris, fumes and allergens, creating a safe space inside the car for you and your family.

Due to the thickness of this filter, it performs slightly better compared to others. This is especially true when it comes to gases, odors and fumes. Within the filter, there’s also an antimicrobial stage that blocks allergens.

The filter is long-lasting and doesn’t need replacing until 15,000 miles. It’s super simple to install and you get full instructions on how to do it correctly.

It offers great value for money and is affordable to keep replacing in the long run. If you’re not happy, the manufacturer offers a guaranteed money-back.

Customers praised this filter for its thickness, and many said it was a huge improvement from their previous filter.

The Fram FreshBreeze filter is the go-to for musty-smelling cars. It uses a combination of carbon and Arm & Hammer baking soda to remove bad odors before they enter the cabin.

This filter is an excellent choice for families since it captures up to 98 percent of pollen, dust and other pollutants. It provides improved airflow and helps to prevent harmful particles from ruining the HVAC system and engine.

Installation is a breeze since you get full instructions to complete the job correctly. You even receive QR codes to videos that will show you exactly how to install the filter.

Restricted airflow is generally a sign of a needed filter replacement. Otherwise, the manufacturer recommends that the FreshBreeze filter is changed every 15,000 miles or once a year.

Customers have praised the filter for its easy installation, saying it fits well in most car models. Other compliments are its low noise level, as some air filters create a sound when the AC is on.

A common issue with this filter, however, is loose carbon. If not removed, this will come flying out the vents when the air conditioning is turned on. So make sure you give it a tap or a quick vacuum before installing it.

Air purifiers are commonly used within our homes to clean our air, but they can also be useful in cars. This purifier easily connects to the USB outlet in the car and effectively removes bad odors.

It uses a combination of a HEPA filter and an ionizer to remove allergens, viruses, bacteria and mold. The unique design features LED lights that add a nice touch to the car’s interior.

This purifier is especially popular among pet owners. Many complain about bad odors caused by pet urine or wet fur. This purifier removed most odors.

Because it uses an ionizer to kill bacteria and odors, it does produce small amounts of ozone. However, the manufacturer claims it’s only very small amounts at a safe level and isn’t a concern.

Still, if you’re not happy with the air purifier, Pure offers a full refund and money-back guarantee.