How to replace your cabin air filter

The cabin filter cleans the air you breathe inside the car. A dirty one causes musty smells and weak airflow.

5–10 minutesEasySaves $40–70 vs. a shop

What you need

  • The correct cabin air filter (a charcoal one also cuts odors)

Steps

  1. Empty the glovebox. On most cars, the cabin filter sits behind it.
  2. Release the glovebox stops (usually by squeezing the sides or unclipping a damper arm) so it swings down.
  3. Unclip the filter cover and slide out the old filter.
  4. Check the airflow arrow on the new filter, slide it in the same direction, and reattach the cover and glovebox.
Tips: Some trucks and older cars have the filter under the windshield cowl instead; your owner's manual shows where.

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