Maintenance
Cabin air filter replacement: what it costs
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $12 | $40 |
| Labor: 0.2 to 0.4 hours × $110 to $150 an hour | $22 | $60 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $0 |
| Total, rounded | $30 | $100 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in the US, $27.13 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
The filter that cleans the air blowing from your vents is swapped for a new one. A clogged filter means weak airflow and musty smells inside the car.
Get quotes from local shops
Tell us the job and your ZIP. Free, takes a minute.
Fair Price is not a contractor or a repair shop. Who sees your request
What is usually included
- New cabin air filter
- Remove and clean the filter housing
- Check for debris or leaves
- Quick airflow check
What moves the price
- Standard versus carbon-activated filter
- Filter behind the dash or glove box
- Dealer versus parts-store filter
- Shop labor minimum
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Which filter are you installing?
- Where is mine located, and is it easy to reach?
- Can I see the old filter?
- Is the housing cleaned too?
Can you do it yourself?
One of the easiest DIYs; most cars need no tools beyond opening the glove box, and a video for your model helps.
Common questions
How often should I change it?
Once a year or every 15,000 to 25,000 miles, sooner if you drive on dusty roads or in heavy traffic.
Does it help with allergies?
A fresh filter catches pollen, dust and soot better than a clogged one. A carbon version also reduces some odors.
Why does my shop charge so much for something small?
Some cars need parts removed to reach it. If yours is behind the glove box, you can often do it yourself in five minutes.
How much does cabin air filter replacement cost?
A typical range across the US is $30 to $100. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $35 to $110 |
| New York City area | $35 to $110 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $35 to $110 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $35 to $110 |
| Houston area, Texas | $30 to $100 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $30 to $100 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $30 to $100 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $35 to $110 |
| Miami area, Florida | $30 to $100 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $35 to $110 |