How to Change Your Car Cabin Air Filter

A vehicle cabin air filter helps trap dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants before they enter your car’s interior, ensuring cleaner, healthier air for you and your passengers. Replacing it regularly improves HVAC performance, reduces odors, and makes driving more comfortable—especially for allergy sufferers.

Instructions:

1). Locate the Cabin Air Filter - Most cabin air filters are positioned behind the glove box. Check your owner’s manual to confirm the location for your specific vehicle.

2). Empty the Glove Box - Remove any items stored inside the glove box to prevent them from falling out during the process.

3). Detach the Glove Box - Open the glove box fully. Look for the side dampers (small arms or cords attached to the side) and gently unhook them. Press in on both sides of the glove box to release the stops and allow it to drop down fully. Some vehicles may require removing a few screws.

4). Access the Filter Compartment - Behind the glove box, you’ll see a rectangular cover — this is the cabin air filter housing. Unclip or unscrew the cover, depending on your vehicle’s design.

5). Remove the Old Filter - Slide out the old cabin air filter carefully. Pay attention to how it is positioned — many filters have an airflow direction arrow printed on the side.

6). Insert the New Filter - Place the new filter into the housing, ensuring it is oriented in the same direction as the old one (match the airflow arrows).

7). Reassemble the Glove Box  - Reattach the filter cover. Lift the glove box back into position, pressing the sides in if necessary to re-engage the stops. Reconnect the side dampers or reinsert any screws if removed. Open and close the glove box to make sure it operates smoothly. Replace any items you removed from the glove box.