Where Is the Cabin Air Filter Located?

Reliablecounter Team

You probably know that there is an air filter in your engine compartment that cleans the air going into the engine. Did you know there is also one for your AC and heating coming into the cabin? Replacing your cabin air filter from time to time is a good idea to keep everything running smoothly and cleanly. However, even finding this filter can be easier said than done.

 

Position of the Cabin Air Filter

The position of the cabin air filter depends on your vehicle. So, you should check your owner’s manual or vehicle-specific instructions to be sure. However, it is usually located behind the glove box. This somewhat elusive position can be hard to find unless you know where to look.

Depending on the vehicle, it may be directly behind the box or off to the side slightly. Nonetheless, the usual process for finding the filter starts with taking the glove box out.

 

When Should You Change the Cabin Filter?

Typically, the best system for changing your cabin air filter is to follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. This will usually specify that it should be replaced at an interval between 15,000 and 30,000 miles. However, the specifics vary based on the vehicle.

Another reason to change the filter is if you notice that the airflow appears to be restricted. If you have low AC or heating performance, this may be the problem. Sometimes, dirty cabin air filters will cause the AC to ice over, resulting in very poor performance after being run for a while. If any of these situations occur, check the cabin air filter and consider replacing it.

 

Steps to Changing Your Cabin Air Filter

Even if you have never fixed a vehicle before, you can learn how to change your cabin air filter. Just follow these five easy steps:

  • Prepare Your Vehicle: Before doing any work on your vehicle, park it on a flat, dry surface. Make sure that the parking brake is on. This may be an easy job, but you will likely need to lean into the vehicle from outside. You don’t want to let it start rolling.
  • Remove the Glove Box: The air filter is likely behind the glove box. Most glove boxes can be removed without any tools just by squeezing the top then lifting the box out. Some require a screwdriver. Check your owner’s manual for specifics.
  • Remove the Filter: Lift out the cabin air filter. It will be inside a fox. Some of these boxes have a cover held in place by clips. Others require a tool to remove the cover.
  • Install the New Air Filter: Simply put the new filter in place and secure the cover of the box.
  • Replace the Glove Box: Finally, put the glove box back in place. This should simply be the reverse of the removal procedure.

Change Your Cabin Air Filter Today

The cabin air filter is one of the easiest auto parts to replace. However, the exact steps depend on your vehicle, so make sure to check your documentation. Get started today.