Is the Air in Your Car Safe During Southern Oregon’s Wildfire Season?

Wildfires are now a regular part of life in Southern Oregon’s summers and falls. Even when flames aren’t close, drifting smoke can settle over the Rogue Valley for days or weeks.

That raises a critical question for drivers in and around Phoenix: Is the air inside your vehicle safe to breathe?

The short answer: usually yes—if your cabin air filter is clean and your ventilation settings are correct. Most vehicles built since the early 2000s include a cabin air filter (sometimes called a pollen filter) that traps smoke and dust before they reach the interior. Using this system properly can dramatically reduce what you breathe while driving.

Cabin Air Filters: Your First Line of Defense

Cabin filters come in different grades. Premium versions use activated charcoal to capture ultra‑fine particles and neutralize odors. At Phoenix Automotive, we inspect and replace these filters during routine services, but in smoky months you may want to change yours sooner. A filter can be more than 20 percent blocked and still look clean, so don’t judge by appearance alone.

Pro tip: If airflow from the vents drops or a campfire odor lingers, it’s probably time for a fresh filter—even if your next scheduled service isn’t due yet.

Use Recirculation for Cleaner, Cooler Air

When smoke is heavy:

• Keep windows closed.

• Turn on the A/C.

• Activate the recirculation (recirc) button on your climate panel.

• Recirc closes an intake flap, forcing the system to reuse cabin air rather than pull in smoky outside air. Your A/C will also cool faster because it’s chilling air that’s already partially cooled.

• After an extended smoke event, consider replacing the cabin filter again and scheduling an A/C inspection to clear any residual ash.

Stay Proactive—And Breathe Easier

Wildfire smoke may be unavoidable, but poor cabin air quality doesn’t have to be. A clean filter, smart use of recirculation, and timely maintenance protect your lungs and keep every drive more comfortable.

If you’re unsure when your filter was last changed—or you just want peace of mind—schedule a quick inspection with Phoenix Automotive. We stock high‑efficiency charcoal cabin filters and offer same‑day installation.

Stay safe, breathe easier, and keep moving—no matter what wildfire season brings to Southern Oregon. And, a heartfelt thank‑you to the firefighters and first responders who work tirelessly each year to protect our communities.

Have a question about what we do and how we do it? Check out our FAQ page to learn more about Phoenix Automotive. And remember, if your car is in need of a little attention, you can request an appointment at Book online at 541‑535‑3361 or online anytime HERE!