As you continue to take good care of your Toyota, your hands-on skills continue to grow. One of which is knowing how to change a cabin air filter. Whether you’re into DIY, trying to save money, or just want to learn some fundamental service skills, a fresh cabin air filter is vital to the health and longevity of your vehicle and your time on the road. Understanding how to change the cabin air filter will keep you on the road with clean air. 

When Should You Replace Your Cabin Air Filter

It’s recommended to check and replace your cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000miles or at least once a year, especially before allergy season begins. However, this will vary depending on your driving conditions. If you often drive in areas with high pollution levels, heavy traffic, or off-road you may need to replace the filter more often. If there is reduced airflow from the vents, increased allergy symptoms while driving, or persistent unpleasant odors, chances are it’s time for a new cabin air filter.

How to Change Your Cabin Air Filter

1. Remove the Glove Box Pin

Open the glove box within your vehicle and empty it out. Once emptied, locate and remove the screws that hold the pin on the outside edge, and carefully remove the pin.

2. Lower the Glove Box

Next, gently press in on both sides of the glove box to lower it. This will reveal the black cover where the cabin air filter is located. Be careful not to force the glove box down, as it has limited slack.

3. Remove the Old Cabin Air Filter

Once the cover is exposed, squeeze the tabs on either side to remove it and slowly pull out the old filter. It is likely to be full of dust and dirt, so be careful and make note of the direction of airflow as indicated by the arrow on the side of the old filter.

4. Clean the Cabin Air Filter Space

Check the location of the old cabin air filter for excessive dirt and debris. Feel free to clean it out, if necessary, with a damp rag, microfiber cloth, or vacuum. 

5. Install Your New Cabin Air Filter

When it is time to insert the new filter, check the airflow arrow on the side to ensure you’re installing it in the same direction as the one you removed. Once the filter is securely placed, put the housing cover back and snap the tabs into place.

6. Lift the Glove Box Back into Place

Once the new cabin air filter is installed, lift the glove box back to its original position and lock it in place by sliding the pin back into the hole in the arm. Replace any screws or retainers and replace any items you had to remove before starting.

7. Enjoy the Fresh Filtered Air

Lastly close the glove box and start enjoying the fresh filtered air. By keeping your cabin air filter in top condition, you’re ensuring the comfort of yourself and your passengers, while maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your vehicle’s HVAC system.

Now, you are set to DIY your cabin air filter with 100% confidence.

Shop Genuine Toyota Parts Online to find the right Cabin Air Filter for your Toyota or learn more about Toyota Cabin Air Filters.