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When to Change Cabin & Engine Air Filters on 2021 Kia Telluride?

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Tom H. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:11 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Kia Telluride SX

Hello forum,

I own a 2021 Kia Telluride SX, and it's just crossed the 30,000-mile mark. I've been pretty good about oil changes, but I realized I haven't touched the air filters yet. Lately, I've noticed the AC doesn't feel as strong, and there's a slight musty smell when I first turn it on. Also, I'm wondering if a dirty engine air filter could be affecting my gas mileage or engine performance.

What are the recommended intervals for changing both the cabin air filter and the engine air filter on a Telluride? Are these easy DIY jobs, or should I just have the dealership handle them during my next service? Any specific filter brands or types you recommend for better air quality or engine protection?

Thanks for the help!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:11 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It's great you're thinking about your air filters! Both the cabin air filter and engine air filter are crucial for your 2021 Kia Telluride SX's performance and your comfort. At 30,000 miles, it's definitely time to inspect, and likely replace, both.

Recommended Intervals (General Guidelines, always check your owner's manual):

  • Cabin Air Filter: Typically every 15,000 - 20,000 miles or once a year. If you drive in dusty conditions or have allergies, you might change it more frequently.
  • Engine Air Filter: Typically every 30,000 miles or every 2-3 years. Again, dusty environments warrant more frequent changes.

Impact of Dirty Filters:

  • Cabin Air Filter: A clogged cabin filter restricts airflow to your HVAC system, leading to reduced fan speed, poor cooling/heating performance, and the musty smell you're experiencing (due to trapped moisture and contaminants).
  • Engine Air Filter: A dirty engine air filter restricts airflow to the engine, which can lead to:
    • Reduced engine performance and horsepower.
    • Decreased fuel efficiency (though the impact is often less significant than many believe, modern ECUs can compensate to a degree).
    • Increased engine wear over time if large particles bypass the filter.

DIY Difficulty:

  1. Cabin Air Filter: This is one of the easiest DIY maintenance tasks. It's usually located behind the glove box. You typically just unclip or unhinge the glove box, pull out the old filter, and slide in the new one. Takes about 5-10 minutes.
  2. Engine Air Filter: Also very easy. It's located in the air filter box under the hood. You usually unclip a few metal clips or unscrew a couple of screws, lift the top of the airbox, remove the old filter, and drop in the new one. Takes about 5-10 minutes.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you're uncomfortable opening the hood or glove box, or if you encounter any unexpected difficulties.
  • If the musty smell persists after changing the cabin filter, as it might indicate a deeper issue with the HVAC system (e.g., evaporator coil cleaning needed).

For filter brands, reputable aftermarket brands like Wix, Mann-Filter, K&N (for engine, if you prefer reusable), or even OEM Kia filters are all good choices. Ensure you get the correct part number for your Telluride SX.

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