Air Filters

Kia Air Filters FAQ

How Many and What Types are There?

Most Kia cars and SUVs have two: a cabin air filter for the AC and heating systems and an engine air filter for the motor.

What Does Each Do?

Both trap airborne contaminants using pleated fibers that are made of synthetic paper, foam, cotton, or metal. The cabin filter, for its part, helps keep things like allergens from accumulating in the car HVAC system. The engine filter helps keep dirt, muck, and debris from building up in the air intake and on the fuel injectors, spark plugs, and other components. Without air filters, particulate would start to wear out these parts, and double quick.

What are the Signs it's Time to Change Them?

Look for clogs. More trouble usually follows in the form of certain symptoms.

• The Check Engine light may illuminate on the dash.
• The filter surfaces may appear dirty, damaged, or worn out.
• The engine may start making strange noises. It may also lose power or misfire.
• You may start to have acceleration problems.
• Gas mileage might get worse.
• Emissions from the exhaust may become excessive. You might start seeing black smoke.
• The cabin may start to smell unclean.
• You might begin to hear whistling or other abnormal sounds coming from the cabin's vents.

If you see any of these, it's probably time for replacement; generally, that's as easy as finding the filter housing (under the hood and behind the glove box for engine air filters and cabin air filters, respectively), taking the old filter out, and putting the new one in. However, check your owner's documentation or manufacturer's instructions. Otherwise, replace them every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or so. Before you buy new ones, though, be sure they're the genuine article.

Why Buy Genuine OEM Air Filters vs. Aftermarket?

Kia manufactures what fits its car and SUV models best. The aftermarket can't always make the same fitment guarantee.

Where Can I Order Replacement Air Filters for Kia Vehicles Online?

Check out the catalog here at our auto parts store. We've made finding what you need easy. Simply browse by model and model year. If you buy now, we can usually ship your order anywhere in the US in as few as 24 hours a few business days, depending on whether it's in stock or not. Overnight shipping is offered as well unless you'd prefer local pickup at our 17120 South Dixie Highway location in Miami FL. Returns and cancellations are also hassle-free -- a simple matter of contacting us to start the process.

If you have any questions or concerns requiring an expert opinion, or you need a little buying advice to go along with it, feel free to get in touch with the parts team here at South Dade Kia. One of our knowledgeable specialists will be happy to help.