I've changed my cabin filter and it was...

[LeafTaxi]

I've always just vacuumed them out from the "dirty" side; and maybe blown them out from the "clean" side with compressed air. I've never noticed a moldy smell, but :shrug: . But with the Leaf, I bought the cabin filter on the way in to my 1-year service, changed it in the parking lot at the dealer, and left the box on the seat with a note that I didn't need or want a cabin filter change. Just in case they were going to get excited about the $80.

[DaveinOlyWA]

I've always just vacuumed them out from the "dirty" side; and maybe blown them out from the "clean" side with compressed air. I've never noticed a moldy smell, but :shrug: . But with the Leaf, I bought the cabin filter on the way in to my 1-year service, changed it in the parking lot at the dealer, and left the box on the seat with a note that I didn't need or want a cabin filter change. Just in case they were going to get excited about the $80.

I wash and rinse mine out, then let it air dry. They haven't changed from year to year so I literally have a total investment of $27 over 4 LEAFs. I had one, rotated it in and out a few times and then lost track of it so bought another one at a better price. (first one was $16, the 2nd one only $11) So naturally a few weeks after getting the 2nd one, I found the first one so I have a few ready to roll.

I do replace my filters twice a year due to very high pollen issues. Nature is a bit overwhelming here sometimes getting a bit too close for comfort.

https://www.amazon.com/photos/shared/d8 ... nwSEg1yvD7

I did not hear the branch fall but I did feel it. The epicenter was approximately 25 feet NW of my bed...

[LeftieBiker]

I'm confused, Dave. You replace your cabin filter twice a year, AND wash and reuse it? Or you wash it twice a year and never replace it with a new one?

[DaveinOlyWA]

I'm confused, Dave. You replace your cabin filter twice a year, AND wash and reuse it? Or you wash it twice a year and never replace it with a new one?

I have 3 that I use on rotation and change filters in April (March 22nd this year because we were in ummm... "Indian Spring?") and just before the rainy season.

TBT; I have checked mine and they get visually dirty in just a few weeks. But will say that if you change the filter on a regular basis;

*You will break that stupid clip

* You will get rather good at changing it. With a power screwdriver, its really a 10 minute job.

[gncndad]

DaveinOlyWA: Are your filters actually clogging in 6 months, or just getting smelly?...just curious...

[LeftieBiker]

I'm confused, Dave. You replace your cabin filter twice a year, AND wash and reuse it? Or you wash it twice a year and never replace it with a new one?

I have 3 that I use on rotation and change filters in April (March 22nd this year because we were in ummm... "Indian Spring?") and just before the rainy season.

TBT; I have checked mine and they get visually dirty in just a few weeks. But will say that if you change the filter on a regular basis;

*You will break that stupid clip

* You will get rather good at changing it. With a power screwdriver, its really a 10 minute job.

I'd look for a washable foam filter - or make one. Paper isn't meant for that kind of use.

[LeftieBiker]

K&N makes them. Not for the Leaf, but I'll bet one of the others could be adapted or would fit (maybe the Sentra filter):

https://www.knfilters.com/cabin-air-fil ... Y/9UaoUw==

[DaveinOlyWA]

DaveinOlyWA: Are your filters actually clogging in 6 months, or just getting smelly?...just curious...

No but your question does help to shed light on why so many people run out of gas...

[GerryAZ]

I doubt that K&N will ever make a filter for the Leaf because the filter must be compressed to get it in or out of the housing. K&N filters typically have high-quality rigid rubber-covered edges. The original Nissan filters for the Leaf are made of a flexible material that is more like fiberglass or plastic than paper so it may not hurt to rinse, dry, and reuse them a few times.

[DaveinOlyWA]

I doubt that K&N will ever make a filter for the Leaf because the filter must be compressed to get it in or out of the housing. K&N filters typically have high-quality rigid rubber-covered edges. The original Nissan filters for the Leaf are made of a flexible material that is more like fiberglass or plastic than paper so it may not hurt to rinse, dry, and reuse them a few times.

I had minimal concerns over washing and reusing my filters. They are made of a material that reminds me of Tyvek. This is VERY strong, lightweight and used in houses to provide a good one way moisture barrier to allow the house to breathe but remains waterproof. It is quite the remarkable stuff.