Where Is the Cabin Air Filter Located?

Reviewed by

Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Written by CarParts.com Research Team - Updated on January 16th, 2024

Reading Time: 2 minutes
Summary
  • You can usually find the cabin air filter behind the glove compartment.
  • Accessing it typically involves removing the box from its fasteners.
  • On some vehicles, the filter is under the hood. To access it, simply lift the hood and remove the plastic cover to access the filter.

Q: Where Is the Cabin Air Filter Typically Located?

A: The cabin air filter is usually behind the glove compartment. You can access it by removing the box from the fasteners holding it in place.

For some vehicles, the filter is under the hood. If this is the case for you, simply lift the hood and remove the plastic cover to access the filter. The filter could also be somewhere beneath the dashboard.

A cabin air filter | Image Source: Richard McCuistian

Pro Tips are nuggets of information direct from ASE-certified automobile technicians working with CarParts.com, which may include unique, personal insights based on their years of experience working in the automotive industry. These can help you make more informed decisions about your car.

Pro Tip: Some Teslas have an air filter behind the glove box and a much larger one at the rear of the front cargo area. Nissan Altimas will have the filter right up against the bulkhead in the center.

The first vehicle that came with a cabin air filter was the 1995 Ford Contour. The cabin air filter traps contaminants, like dust, dirt, and mold, to purify the air you breathe in the cabin. It gets clogged over time, limiting register airflow.

Tips on How to Access the Cabin Air Filter

The owner’s manual that comes with your vehicle should have all the necessary information regarding the cabin air filter. This includes where it’s located, how to remove it, when to replace it, and more.

Also, note some manufacturers opted not to include an cabin air filter for some of their models. So if there’s nothing written on the manual, chances are your car doesn’t have it either.

About The Authors
Reviewed By Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician

Technical Reviewer at CarParts.com

Richard McCuistian has worked for nearly 50 years in the automotive field as a professional technician, an instructor, and a freelance automotive writer for Motor Age, ACtion magazine, Power Stroke Registry, and others. Richard is ASE certified for more than 30 years in 10 categories, including L1 Advanced Engine Performance and Light Vehicle Diesel.

Written By CarParts.com Research Team

Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

Share
Published by
CarParts.com Research Team and Richard McCuistian, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician