🔧 QX60 - Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Your QX60’s cabin air filter cleans the air going through the A/C and heater. Replacing it restores airflow, reduces musty smells, and helps your A/C work more efficiently.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.3-0.7 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
• ⚠️ Work gently around plastic trim to avoid cracking clips.
• ⚠️ No battery disconnect is required for this job.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Plastic trim removal tool
• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• Flashlight
• 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 level ground and set the parking brake.
• Move the front passenger seat back for more room.
• Have a trash bag ready for dust/leaves.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Clear the glove box area

• Remove items from the glove box so nothing falls out.
• Use a flashlight to locate the glove box sides and the small “damper” arm on the right side (the damper is a small strap/arm that slows the glove box when it opens).

Step 2: Detach the glove box damper arm

• On the right side of the glove box, use a plastic trim removal tool to gently pry the damper arm off its peg.
• Do not yank it; it should pop free with light pressure.

Step 3: Release the glove box stops and lower the glove box

• With the glove box open, press inward on the left and right sides of the glove box to clear the side “stops.”
• Lower the glove box down toward the floor.
• Press one side at a time if needed.

Step 4: Locate the cabin filter access door

• Behind the lowered glove box, use a flashlight to find a small rectangular access cover on the HVAC box (black plastic housing).

Step 5: Remove the filter cover

• Unclip the cover by hand; if it’s tight, use a plastic trim removal tool to help release the tabs.
• If your cover uses a screw (some variations do), remove it with a Phillips #2 screwdriver.

Step 6: Remove the old cabin air filter

• Put on nitrile gloves.
• Slide the old filter straight out. Keep it level so debris doesn’t dump inside.
• Note the airflow direction marking on the filter (usually says “AIR FLOW” with an arrow).

Step 7: Install the new cabin air filter

• Compare the new filter to the old one to confirm the same size and shape.
• Install the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing the same direction as the old filter.
• Slide it fully in until it seats evenly.

Step 8: Reinstall the cover and glove box

• Reinstall the filter cover and snap the tabs back in place by hand.
• If equipped with a screw, tighten it with a Phillips #2 screwdriver (snug only; do not overtighten plastic).
• Lift the glove box back up, press the sides inward to pass the stops, and close it.
• Reattach the damper arm to its peg by pressing it on by hand.

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✅ After Repair

• 🔄 Start the engine and run the blower fan on medium, then high, to confirm strong airflow and no rattles.
• Switch between fresh air and recirculation to verify the door moves normally.
• If your QX60 shows a maintenance reminder for filters, reset it in the vehicle settings menu (if available).

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$160 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $15-$45 (parts only)

You Save: $65-$115 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.7 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.