How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2011-2019 Volvo S60
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and HVAC airflow checks
How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2011-2019 Volvo S60
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and HVAC airflow checks for 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019
🔧 Cabin Air Filter - Replacement
Your S60 uses a cabin air filter behind the glovebox area. Replacing it keeps the air inside the car cleaner and helps the HVAC system breathe easier. This is a simple job and a good first DIY repair.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hour
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Turn the ignition off and remove the key/fob before starting.
- Let the glovebox and trim stay closed and cool; do not force clips.
- No battery disconnect is required for this repair.
- Work slowly around plastic tabs.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Trim removal tool (plastic)
- Torx T20 screwdriver
- Flashlight
- Safety glasses
- Mechanic gloves
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Cabin air filter - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and switch the ignition off.
- Open the glovebox and remove any items inside it.
- Move the front passenger seat back for more room.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the glovebox
- Use your hands to lower the glovebox and clear out the contents.
- Look along the right side and lower edge for the filter access area.
Step 2: Remove the glovebox stop or lower panel
- Use a trim removal tool (plastic) to gently release any side stop or lower cover clips.
- If your S60 has a small Torx fastener in the glovebox area, use a Torx T20 screwdriver to remove it.
- Keep the screws grouped together.
Step 3: Access the cabin filter cover
- Use a flashlight to find the filter housing cover behind the glovebox area.
- Release the cover tabs by hand or with the trim removal tool (plastic), depending on the style fitted.
Step 4: Remove the old cabin air filter
- Pull the old filter straight out carefully.
- Watch the airflow arrow on the old filter so you can match the new one.
- If leaves or dirt fall out, clean the area by hand before installing the new filter.
Step 5: Install the new cabin air filter
- Use your hands to slide the new filter in the same direction as the old one came out.
- Match the airflow arrow to the original direction.
- Push the filter fully into place without bending it.
Step 6: Reinstall the cover and glovebox parts
- Use your hands to snap the filter cover back on.
- If you removed a Torx fastener, reinstall it with the Torx T20 screwdriver.
- Reinstall any glovebox stop or lower trim panel with the trim removal tool (plastic).
Step 7: Test the HVAC system
- Start the car and turn the fan on.
- Check for normal airflow and listen for any rattles from the glovebox area.
✅ After Repair
- Make sure the glovebox opens and closes normally.
- Run the blower on low, then high, to confirm airflow feels stronger.
- If the old filter was very dirty, you may notice better airflow right away.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $90-$160 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $20-$45 (parts only)
You Save: $70-$115 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.


















