🔧 Trax - Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Your Trax cabin air filter cleans the air going into the HVAC system (A/C and heat). Replacing a clogged filter improves airflow, reduces musty smells, and can help the A/C work better.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.25-0.5 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn ignition OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
• Work gently around glovebox plastics to avoid breaking tabs.
• Do not start the blower with the filter removed (can pull debris into the HVAC case).

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Nylon trim removal tool set
• Phillips #2 screwdriver
• Flashlight
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses

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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 your Trax on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Move the passenger seat back for more working room.
• Empty the glove box so nothing falls out when it drops.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open and clear the glove box

• Open the glove box fully by hand.
• Remove any contents.
• Use a flashlight to look at the right side of the glove box for the small “damper” arm (a little control arm that slows the glove box as it opens).

Step 2: Disconnect the glove box damper

• Use a nylon trim removal tool set to gently pry the damper arm off its pin (if it’s a clip-on style), or use a Phillips #2 screwdriver if there’s a small screw (some builds vary).
• Go slow—plastic clips can snap.

Step 3: Release the glove box stops and lower it

• Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
• Push inward on both sides of the glove box to clear the side “stops.”
• Let the glove box swing downward toward the floor.

Step 4: Remove the cabin filter access cover

• Behind the glove box, locate the rectangular cabin filter cover.
• Use a nylon trim removal tool set to press the locking tabs and pull the cover off.

Step 5: Remove the old cabin air filter

• Slide the old filter straight out by hand.
• Use a flashlight to check for leaves/debris in the filter slot.
• If debris is present, remove it carefully by hand while wearing nitrile gloves.

Step 6: Install the new cabin air filter

• Match the airflow direction arrow on the filter to the airflow marking on the HVAC housing (typically it points downward in this setup).
• Slide the new filter in evenly so it doesn’t fold or crush.

Step 7: Reinstall the cover and glove box

• Reinstall the cabin filter cover by hand until the tabs click.
• Lift the glove box back up and push inward on the sides again to pass the stops back into place.
• Reconnect the damper arm using the nylon trim removal tool set (or Phillips #2 screwdriver if your damper uses a screw).

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and run the HVAC blower on medium for 30 seconds.
• Confirm airflow is stronger and there are no rattles from the glove box area.
• If you notice a whistle, re-check that the filter is fully seated and not bent.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

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

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

You Save: $45-$95 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.5 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.