How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2015-2017 Kia K900 (Glove Box Access) (Engine: V6 3.8L)
Step-by-step instructions with tools list, filter direction tips, and post-install airflow checks
How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2015-2017 Kia K900 (Glove Box Access) (Engine: V6 3.8L)
Step-by-step instructions with tools list, filter direction tips, and post-install airflow checks for 2015, 2016, 2017
🔧 K900 - Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Your K900’s cabin air filter cleans the air coming into the HVAC system (heat/AC). Replacing it helps airflow, reduces odors, and keeps dust/pollen out of the cabin.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 10-20 minutes
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- 🛑 Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key before working under the dash.
- 🧤 Wear gloves—old filters can be dusty and full of debris.
- ⚡ Battery disconnect is not required for this job.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Trim removal tool (plastic) (specialty)
- Phillips #2 screwdriver
- Flashlight
🔩 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 set the parking brake.
- Move the front passenger seat back to give yourself space.
- Have a trash bag ready for the old filter.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open and clear the glove box
- Open the glove box and remove any items inside.
- Use a flashlight to look along the right side of the glove box for a small “damper” arm (a little strut that slows the glove box).
Step 2: Disconnect the glove box damper
- Gently pry the damper end off its pin using a trim removal tool (plastic) (specialty).
- A damper is a small arm that controls how fast the glove box drops.
Step 3: Release the glove box stops and lower the glove box
- Push in on both sides of the glove box to clear the built-in “stops.”
- Lower the glove box downward to access the cabin filter housing behind it.
- Go slow—plastic tabs can snap if forced.
Step 4: Remove the cabin filter access door
- Find the rectangular filter cover/housing behind the glove box.
- Release the cover tabs by hand; if a screw is present on your cover, remove it with a Phillips #2 screwdriver.
- Set the cover aside.
Step 5: Remove the old cabin air filter
- Slide the old filter straight out.
- Keep it level to avoid dumping leaves and dust into the blower area.
Step 6: Install the new cabin air filter
- Check the airflow arrow on the filter frame.
- Install it in the same direction as the old one (typically airflow points down toward the blower on this setup).
- Slide the new filter fully into the slot so it sits flat.
Step 7: Reinstall the cover and glove box
- Reinstall the filter cover until the tabs click; if equipped, tighten the screw with a Phillips #2 screwdriver (snug only).
- Lift the glove box back up and push the sides inward to re-seat the stops.
- Reconnect the damper arm by pressing it back onto its pin by hand.
✅ After Repair
- Start the car and run the fan on medium-high for 30 seconds.
- Confirm you have good airflow and no rattles behind the glove box.
- If you notice a musty smell, run A/C for a few minutes to help dry the HVAC box.
💰 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 0.3-0.6 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.


















