A new cabin air filter could keep you from getting headaches while you drive.

Cabin air filters crucial to commuter comfort

Does your morning commute leave you with a bad headache? It might not only be the traffic that's causing your temples to throb.

Studies show that the air inside vehicle compartments has significantly higher concentrations of exhaust gases than the outside air. That's because vehicles in front of your car produce an exhaust gas tunnel that draws harmful airborne contaminants into your vehicle in a concentrated form. These gases can cause a variety of problems, ranging from headaches and nausea to severe allergic reactions.

If these symptoms sound familiar, it's probably time to change your cabin air filter. No longer just for commercial truck drivers, cabin air filters are becoming increasingly common in today's cars and light trucks. Designed to capture contaminants like soot and dirt, as well as dangerous gases and odors, cabin air filters are your first line of defense against damaging airborne toxins that enter a vehicle while it's moving. When that filter is dirty or clogged, less air passes through the filter, making it harder to keep the air clean and flowing.

The combination cabin air filter, which is used by some OE manufacturers and in certain premium aftermarket products, features a multi-layer design that traps microscopic airborne particles. In addition, the filter incorporates an activated carbon layer to absorb gases and odors that can cause a variety of health problems.

And there's more good news: The percentage of automobiles with cabin air filters continues to grow, as both manufacturers and consumers gain an increased understanding of the importance of maintaining clean air inside a vehicle.

Besides the obvious dangers to driver and passenger comfort and health, a dirty cabin air filter can result in decreased heating and air conditioning performance caused by restricted airflow through the filter. A clogged cabin air filter may also hinder a vehicle's HVAC performance and shorten the life of vital system components.

Vehicle recommendations may vary, but the general guideline for replacing cabin air filters is every 12,000 to 15,000 miles . or at least once a year. For an average cost of under $100 including labor, a certified automotive technician can replace your cabin air filter and help you -- and your vehicle -- breathe easier.