How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2016 Nissan Murano (Step-by-Step)
Glove box removal walkthrough, required tools/parts, airflow direction tips, and final HVAC checks for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2016 Nissan Murano (Step-by-Step)
Glove box removal walkthrough, required tools/parts, airflow direction tips, and final HVAC checks for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024
🔧 Murano - Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Your cabin air filter cleans the air coming through the HVAC vents (A/C and heat). Replacing it helps airflow, reduces odors, and keeps dust/pollen out of the cabin.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.25-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Park on level ground, shift to Park, and turn the ignition OFF.
- ⚠️ Keep fingers clear of the glove box hinges and side stops when releasing them.
- ⚠️ Do not run the blower motor with the filter removed (debris can get pulled into the blower).
- ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this job.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nylon trim removal tool
- Phillips screwdriver #2
- Flashlight
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Cabin air filter - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your Murano on a level surface and open the front passenger door for working room.
- Move anything out of the glove box so it can swing down fully.
- Tip: A flashlight makes the filter cover easy to spot.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open and empty 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 the small “damper” arm (a little strap that slows the glove box). A damper is a small hinge/strap that controls the glove box drop.
Step 2: Disconnect the glove box damper (if equipped)
- If you see the damper arm on the right side, gently pop it off its peg using a nylon trim removal tool.
- If it’s tight, work slowly so you don’t crack the plastic.
Step 3: Release the glove box side stops
- With the glove box open, press inward on the glove box sides near the top to clear the stops past the dash opening.
- Let the glove box swing downward carefully.
Step 4: Locate the cabin filter access door
- Behind the lowered glove box, use a flashlight to find the rectangular HVAC housing.
- Look for a small rectangular filter cover/door on the housing.
Step 5: Remove the cabin filter cover
- Release the cover tabs by hand. If needed, gently help the tab with a nylon trim removal tool.
- Set the cover aside where it won’t get stepped on.
Step 6: Remove the old cabin air filter
- Pull the filter straight out by its edge.
- Keep it level as you remove it to avoid dumping leaves/dust into the blower area.
- Tip: Slide a trash bag under it first.
Step 7: Install the new cabin air filter (correct direction)
- Check the airflow arrow printed on the filter frame.
- Install the filter so the arrow points in the same direction as the old one (typically DOWN toward the floor on this layout).
- Slide it in gently—don’t bend or crush the filter frame.
Step 8: Reinstall the filter cover
- Refit the cover and press until the tabs click into place.
- If screws are present on your cover variant, install them with a Phillips screwdriver #2 until snug (do not overtighten plastic).
Step 9: Reassemble the glove box
- Lift the glove box back up into position.
- Press the glove box sides inward again to pass the stops back into place.
- Reconnect the damper arm (if equipped) by pressing it back onto its peg by hand.
✅ After Repair
- Start your Murano and run the blower on medium, then high, to confirm strong airflow and no rattles.
- Switch between fresh air and recirculation to confirm the airflow sounds normal.
- Tip: If you smell musty odors, run A/C for 5 minutes.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $90-$180 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$45 (parts only)
You Save: $75-$135 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.
🎯 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.


















