🛠️ How to Replace Cabin Air Filters (Step-by-Step Guide)

A simple DIY task with real impact on air quality and comfort

Your cabin air filter helps clean the air you breathe inside your car — filtering out dust, pollen, smog, and even unpleasant odors. Over time, it clogs up, reducing airflow and allowing contaminants inside.

The good news? Replacing it is cheap, fast, and something you can do yourself with just a few minutes and no special tools.

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🔄 How often should you replace it?

• Every 12,000 to 20,000 km, or once a year
• Sooner if you drive in dusty, urban, or pollen-heavy areas
• If your ventilation smells bad or airflow is weak — it’s probably time

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🧰 What you’ll need:

• A new cabin air filter (check OE number or use your car’s make/model to match)
• Owner’s manual (optional but helpful)
• Screwdriver or Torx key (in some cases)
• A flashlight (if it’s hidden in a dark place)
• A few minutes of your time

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🔍 Step-by-Step: How to Replace It

Step 1: Locate the filter

Most cabin filters are in one of these places:

• Behind the glove box (most common)
• Under the dashboard on the passenger side
• Under the hood, near the windshield (less common)

Your owner’s manual or a quick search with your car model + “cabin filter location” can help.

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Step 2: Access the filter

• If it’s behind the glove box, open it and gently unclip or unscrew the box to fold it down
• You’ll usually see a small access panel — open it to reveal the filter slot

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Step 3: Remove the old filter

• Carefully slide it out
• Pay attention to the airflow direction arrow printed on the side
• Note how it was positioned for correct installation of the new one

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Step 4: Clean the area (optional)

• Use a dry cloth or a small vacuum to remove leaves, dust, or debris from the filter housing
• Don’t use liquids or sprays inside the housing

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Step 5: Insert the new filter

• Make sure the airflow arrow matches the one from the old filter
• Slide it gently into place
• Close the access panel and reinstall the glove box or cover

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Step 6: Test it

• Turn on your fan and check if airflow improves
• Enjoy cleaner air — mission accomplished!

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🧼 Bonus tip: Use activated carbon filters for odor control

Some cabin filters contain activated charcoal to help absorb smells and pollutants — great for city drivers or allergy sufferers.

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Need help finding the right filter?

Just email us at info@partoria.eu or call us at +421 951 041 808 — we’ll help you pick a compatible part based on your car’s VIN or model.

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Related articles:

• [Original vs. Aftermarket Filters: Which Should You Choose?]
• [Top 5 DIY Car Maintenance Tasks]
• [Signs Your Air Filter Needs Replacing]