How do I clean my K&N High Performance cabin air filter?

Quick version: remove the filter from the HVAC housing, rinse with cool water, let it dry completely, and reinstall. Do not use heat, solvents, or oil, and replace if the filter media is torn or excessively worn.

What is a K&N High Performance cabin air filter?

The K&N High Performance cabin air filter is a reusable, washable element designed to capture dust, pollen, and other particulates while supporting good airflow through your vehicle’s climate control system. Unlike disposable filters, it’s designed to be cleaned and reused, with the caveat that it must be inspected for damage and replaced if torn or degraded.

Step-by-step cleaning process

Before you begin, confirm you have the right tools and enough time for a thorough dry. The following steps outline a safe, effective cleaning routine.

1. Turn off the vehicle and locate the cabin air filter housing, commonly behind the glove box or under the dashboard; remove the access panel.


2. Carefully remove the filter from the housing and note its orientation for correct reinstallation.


3. Inspect the filter media for tears, holes, or significant wear. If damaged, replace the filter rather than attempting to clean it.


4. Rinse the filter under cool, running water. Use your fingers to gently loosen dirt and debris; avoid high-pressure jets that could deform the pleats.


5. If soil persists, wash with a small amount of mild dish soap and rinse again until the water runs clear. Do not use harsh cleaners, solvents, or bleach.


6. Gently shake off excess water and place the filter on a clean towel to air dry. Do not wring or apply heat to speed drying.


7. Allow the filter to dry completely—ideally for 24 hours or longer—before reinstalling.


8. Reinstall the filter in the correct orientation (arrow indicating airflow direction) and reseal the housing. Run the HVAC on fresh air to verify proper operation.

Note: Do not oil the cabin filter. Most K&N cabin filters are dry and do not require oiling. Avoid bleach, solvents, or high‑pressure cleaning, which can damage the media.

After reinstallation, test the system by running the HVAC on fresh air for a few minutes to ensure good airflow and proper sealing.

Maintenance tips and replacement guidelines

Use these guidelines to maintain performance and decide when to replace the filter rather than cleaning.

• Inspect the filter regularly, especially in dusty or urban environments; look for visible dirt buildup, odors, or reduced airflow.


• Even washable filters wear out over time; replace the filter if the media is torn, deformed, or shows signs of significant degradation after cleaning.


• Purchase the correct model for your vehicle to ensure proper fit and filtration efficiency.

Concluding: Regular inspections and timely cleaning or replacement help preserve cabin air quality and HVAC efficiency.

When to replace and safety considerations

Some situations warrant replacement rather than cleaning. Consider these guidelines to protect your HVAC system and air quality.

• If odors persist after cleaning or the filter remains heavily clogged, replace it.


• A torn or deformed filter should not be reused, as debris can bypass the media.


• Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s replacement intervals and use only the recommended K&N model for your car.

Summary: Cleaning a K&N High Performance cabin air filter involves removing the filter, rinsing with cool water, optionally washing with mild soap, drying thoroughly, and reinstalling in the correct orientation. Do not oil the cabin filter, avoid harsh cleaners or heat, and replace the filter if it shows damage or persistent issues. Regular checks help maintain cabin air quality and HVAC performance.

How to clean k and n cabin filter?

To clean a K&N cabin air filter, spray it with the K&N cabin air filter cleaner, let it soak for about 10 minutes, and then rinse it with low-pressure water from the clean side to the dirty side. After shaking off excess water, let the filter air-dry completely before re-installing it. 
You can watch this video for a visual guide on how to clean a K&N cabin air filter: 56sKNfiltersYouTube · Jul 14, 2023
Step 1: Prepare the filter

• Remove the dirty cabin air filter from the vehicle's housing.
• Tap the filter to remove any loose debris. 

Step 2: Apply cleaner 

• Generously spray both sides of the filter with the K&N cabin air filter cleaner.
• Allow the cleaner to soak in for approximately 10 minutes, making sure it doesn't dry on the filter. 

Step 3: Rinse the filter 

• Using low-pressure water (like a faucet or garden hose without a strong sprayer), rinse the filter from the clean side to the dirty side.
• Continue rinsing until the water runs clear. 

This video demonstrates the correct way to rinse the filter: 58sHome Built Workshop (Jeff Baker)YouTube · Jul 13, 2019
Step 4: Dry the filter 

• Gently shake off excess water. 
• Allow the filter to air-dry naturally. A slightly damp filter is acceptable before applying the refresher. 

Step 5: Apply refresher and re-install 

• Once the filter is dry, spray both sides with the K&N refresher spray. 
• Re-install the clean filter back into the vehicle. 

Are K&N cabin air filters reusable?

Yes, K&N cabin air filters are reusable and designed to be washable and long-lasting, engineered to last for the life of your vehicle. You can clean them to maintain their performance and save money compared to repeatedly buying disposable filters.
 
This video demonstrates how to clean a K&N cabin air filter: 56sKNfiltersYouTube · Jul 14, 2023
Cleaning and maintenance

• Service frequency: K&N recommends cleaning the filter every 12,000 to 25,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. 
• Cleaning process:
  1. Remove the filter from your vehicle. 
  2. Spray the filter with a K&N cabin air filter cleaner and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. 
  3. Rinse the filter with water until the water runs clear. 
  4. Allow the filter to air dry completely. 
  5. Once dry, apply the K&N Refresher spray to the filter media before reinstalling it. 
• Benefits:
  • Cost-effective: Saves money over time compared to buying disposable filters. 
  • Environmentally friendly: Reduces waste that ends up in landfills. 
  • Improved airflow: Many users report better heating and cooling performance after cleaning. 

Can you wash a K and N air filter?

K&N cotton air filters are washable and reusable, but K&N recommends using their own cleaning kit. If you choose to use Dawn dish soap as an alternative, follow these safe, controlled steps to avoid damaging the filter or leaving residues that harm engine performance.

Can I clean my K&N air filter with soap and water?

Yes, you can clean a K&N air filter with soap and water, specifically using a mild dish soap, but it's crucial to rinse the soap out completely and let the filter air dry thoroughly before re-oiling it. While K&N recommends its own cleaning kits, many users and resources confirm that a mixture of mild soap like Dawn and warm water is an effective alternative for cleaning the filter without using brushes that could damage it. 
This video demonstrates the process of cleaning a K&N air filter with dish soap and water: 53sJ. Speed RacingYouTube · Jul 14, 2017
Step-by-step guide

1. Prepare the solution: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap, like Dawn, with warm water in a bucket. 
2. Soak the filter: Submerge the filter completely in the solution and let it soak for several minutes to loosen the dirt and oil. 
3. Rinse thoroughly: Rinse the filter with clean water until all traces of soap and dirt are gone. Rinse from the clean side (intake) to the dirty side (out) to push the dirt out. Do not use high-pressure water, which can damage the cotton fibers. 
4. Dry completely: Gently shake off excess water and allow the filter to air dry naturally. Do not use heat to speed up the drying process. 
5. Re-oil (if necessary): Once the filter is completely dry, apply a K&N air filter oil to the filter before reinstalling it.