Why change your air filter?
It is important to change the cabin air filter of your 2018 Toyota RAV4 for a few reasons:
- Protecting the engine: A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict the airflow to the engine, which may lead to overheating and damages the engine over time.
- Improving the air quality outside the car: A clean air filter can also help improve the air quality outside the car by reducing the emissions of pollutants.
- Extending the life of the HVAC system: The cabin air filter also helps to keep the heating and air conditioning system running smoothly, which helps prolong the life of the system.
- Improved engine performance: A clean air filter allows for a greater amount of air to reach the engine, which enhances overall performance and fuel efficiency.
- Cleaner air quality inside the car: The cabin air filter helps to remove pollutants, dust, and other allergens from the air inside the car, which improves the air quality for everyone on board.
By changing the air filter on a regular basis, you can ensure that your Toyota RAV4 engine and HVAC system are running efficiently, and that the air inside and outside the car is filtered of pollutants
The correct cabin air filter on a 2018 Toyota RAV4
For any 2018 Toyota RAV4, you can use WIX 24483 cabin air filters. These will be an exact fit and will match the required specifications of your RAV4. We always try to recommend the highest quality air filters for your money, and these air filters are either a factory recommendation or an equivalent replacement available in today’s market at a reasonable price.
How often should I change my cabin air filter?
Generally, it is recommended to replace the cabin air filter once per year, or every 12,500 miles, whichever comes first. If you drive in a heavily polluted area, or in an area with high levels of dust, pollen, or other allergens, consider changing the filter more frequently. Similarly, if you often drive on dirt or gravel roads, or if you use your 2018 Toyota RAV4 for off-roading, change your air filter more often.
It’s also important to pay attention to the signs that the filter needs to be changed, such as:
- Reduced airflow from the vents
- Increased dust and debris inside the cabin
- Unusual smells coming from the vents
Changing the cabin air filter on a 2018 Toyota RAV4
This is a process you should be able to do on your own with some standard tools. Of course, consult your owner’s manual, as well as a factory service manual (FSM). The video shown below does a good job of outlining the process.
Tips for changing the cabin air filter on a 2018 Toyota RAV4
Be sure to watch the video above before you attempt to replace the air filter on your 2018 Toyota RAV4, as well as review your factory service manual. Be sure to check the tips shown here to help you as you do this repair.
- Follow manufacturer’s recommendations: Follow any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer, such as replacing any clips or fasteners, to ensure the proper fit of the new filter.
- Orient the filter correctly: Make sure the new filter is installed securely, with the arrows on the filter pointing in the direction of the airflow. Incorrect installation can lead to reduced filter performance and potentially damage to your car’s ventilation system.
- Clean the area around the filter: Before installing the new filter, use a vacuum cleaner or compressed air to clean the area around the filter. This will help prevent debris from getting inside the new filter.
Helpful Tools
You should be able to complete a cabin air filter change with some ordinary tools you likely already have. However, there are a few tools that are specific to this job that you may not have, and we also want to recommend some commonplace tools that you should for sure have in your toolbox if you do not already.
- Screwdriver – In some cases, you will need a screwdriver to remove the cover that houses the cabin air filter.
- A Vacuum Cleaner / Shop Vac – You can use a handheld vacuum cleaner or shop vac instead of compressed air, but it won’t displace the the debris quite as effectively.
- A Mask – If you have allergies or sensitivities to dust or other allergens, you should wear a mask to protect yourself when removing and replacing the cabin air filter.
- A can of Compressed Air – use this to clean the area around the filter. This will help ensure that the new filter doesn’t immediately get clogged.