How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2016 Toyota Prius V
Step-by-step instructions with tool list, parts, safety tips, and reinstall guidance
How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2016 Toyota Prius V
Step-by-step instructions with tool list, parts, safety tips, and reinstall guidance
🔧 Cabin Air Filter - Replacement
The cabin air filter sits behind the glove box and cleans the air going into the cabin. On your Prius V, this is a simple job and usually takes only a few minutes.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Turn the vehicle off and remove the key fob from the cabin.
- Let the glove box and surrounding trim move slowly so nothing snaps.
- No battery disconnect is required for this repair.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- No tools required
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Cabin air filter - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on a level surface and switch the vehicle off.
- Set the parking brake.
- Open the front passenger door for easier access to the glove box area.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the glove box
- Lower and empty the glove box so you can work freely.
- Use your hands to open it fully.
Step 2: Release the glove box stops
- Gently squeeze the sides of the glove box inward with your hands.
- Let the glove box drop down past the side stops.
- Work slowly so the tabs do not break.
Step 3: Remove the cabin filter cover
- Locate the rectangular filter door behind the glove box.
- Use your hands to unclip and remove the cover.
Step 4: Remove the old filter
- Pull the old cabin air filter straight out by hand.
- Note the airflow arrow on the old filter before removing it.
Step 5: Install the new filter
- Insert the new cabin air filter by hand with the airflow arrow pointing the same direction as the old one.
- Make sure it sits flat in the housing.
Step 6: Reinstall the cover and glove box
- Reinstall the filter cover by hand until it clicks into place.
- Lift the glove box back into position and push the side stops back into place by hand.
- Close the glove box and check that it opens and closes normally.
✅ After Repair
- Turn on the climate control and verify airflow is normal.
- Listen for any rattles behind the glove box.
- If the old filter was very dirty, you may notice better airflow right away.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $60-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $45-$85 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.5 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.














