🔧 Cabin Air Filter - Replacement

The cabin air filter cleans the air entering the cabin through the HVAC system. On your CX-5, it sits behind the glove box and is a simple DIY job that usually takes only a few minutes.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hour

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn the ignition off before starting.
• Let the glove box drop slowly so it does not crack or break.
• A cabin filter can be dusty. Wear gloves if you are sensitive to dirt or pollen.
• No battery disconnect is required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Flashlight
• Trim panel tool
• Nitrile gloves

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Cabin air filter - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on a level surface and set the parking brake.
• Turn the ignition off and remove the key or fob from the vehicle.
• Open the glove box and clear out everything inside.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open and support the glove box

• Open the glove box fully.
• Use your hands to press in the sides of the glove box so it drops down past the stops.
• Go slow to avoid cracking the hinges.

Step 2: Remove the glove box damper

• Use a trim panel tool or your fingers to unclip the glove box damper arm on the right side.
• This lets the glove box drop farther so you can reach the filter cover.

Step 3: Remove the cabin filter cover

• Look behind the glove box for the rectangular filter access cover.
• Use your fingers to release the retaining tabs and remove the cover.
• Keep track of the cover orientation.

Step 4: Remove the old cabin air filter

• Use your fingers to pull the old filter straight out.
• Note the airflow arrow on the old filter before removal.
• If the filter is packed with leaves or dirt, clean the area lightly with a flashlight and your hand before installing the new one.

Step 5: Install the new cabin air filter

• Use the airflow arrow on the new filter to match the direction shown on the old filter or the housing.
• Slide the new filter in gently until it seats fully.
• Do not force it backward.

Step 6: Reinstall the cover and glove box

• Snap the filter cover back into place by hand.
• Reconnect the glove box damper arm.
• Lift the glove box back into position and press the sides inward if needed so it closes normally.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the blower fan on and check for normal airflow.
• Make sure the glove box opens and closes smoothly.
• If the old filter was very dirty, expect improved airflow and reduced musty odors.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $60-$140 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $15-$35 (parts only)

You Save: $45-$105 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hours.

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🎯 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.