A study conducted by the National Asthma Council Australia (NACA) has revealed that many new cars do not provide protection for asthma and allergy suffers.

The study looked at the HVAC systems of a range of popular current model cars, noting some failed to offer any air filtration at all. The NACA says the issue highlights a deficit in the Australian market not seen in greater Europe, and one that poses potential problems for millions of Australians as the spring and summer pollen season peaks.

Pollens can cause sneezing, congested sinuses, runny or itchy noses, and itchy eyes as well as trigger dangerous asthma symptoms. While many people with pollen allergies know they can reduce their exposure by staying indoors on days with a high pollen count, on windy days or after thunderstorms, the NACA believes few will be aware that the family car can be an unexpected source of pollen exposure – even with the windows rolled up.

“This is not just a comfort issue,” emphasised NACA spokesperson and allergist, clinical associate professor, Sheryl van Nunen. “Deaths occasionally occur as a result of loss of control of a car due to the driver’s vigorous sneezing.”

A review of leading new car models in Australia has found that some models don’t have particulate filters installed as standard, and far fewer have activated carbon filters. Properly fitted, particulate filters trap dust, pollens and fungus spores while activated carbon filters block out toxic and unpleasant gasses, which can also trigger asthma symptoms.

“Surprisingly, in one of the world’s most asthma affected countries [two of our locally-produced vehicles] Holden’s Commodore and Ford’s Falcon do not come with cabin air particulate filtration as standard, although it is an option,” said Ms van Nunen. “Where filters are fitted it is really important to have them changed regularly – annually is optimal, although some manufacturers indicate a less frequent change.”

No Holden model has activated carbon filters. Toyota, Hyundai, Mazda and Nissan models have particulate filters, but not activated carbon filters. All Volkswagen models have particulate and activated carbon filters, as do certain European-sourced Ford models.

“When it comes to investing in a new car, anyone with a family member affected by asthma or allergies needs to look beyond the options such as metallic paint, to ask what’s actually under the bonnet and ensure that proper air filtration is included,” urged Ms van Nunen.

If you own an older car, the NACA says that having the vehicle’s air ducts cleaned periodically can reduce the growth of mould and help improve the efficiency of HVAC systems. Older cars are less likely to have effective filters, either because they were not fitted, or because they may not have been replaced.

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