🔧 Cabin Air Filter - Replacement

The cabin air filter cleans the air coming into your RAV4’s interior. On your RAV4, it sits behind the glove box and is a quick, beginner-friendly job.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.5 hours

---

⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn the vehicle OFF before starting.
• Do not force the glove box or filter cover.
• Keep debris out of the blower opening.
• No battery disconnect is required for this job.

---

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• No tools required
• Trim removal tool (optional)
• 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 level ground and set the parking brake.
• Make sure the HVAC system is OFF.

---

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the glove box

• Open the glove box fully and remove any items inside.
• Support the glove box with one hand.

Step 2: Release the glove box stops

• Gently squeeze the sides of the glove box inward by hand to clear the stops.
• Let the glove box swing down slowly.
• Don’t pry hard.

Step 3: Remove the filter cover

• Locate the cabin filter cover behind the glove box.
• Release the tabs by hand and remove the cover.

Step 4: Remove the old filter

• Pull the old cabin air filter straight out.
• Take note of the airflow arrow on the old filter.

Step 5: Install the new filter

• Insert the new cabin air filter with the airflow arrow pointing the same direction as the old one.
• Slide it in fully and evenly.

Step 6: Reinstall the cover and glove box

• Reinstall the filter cover until it clicks into place.
• Lift the glove box back up and press the sides inward if needed to clear the stops.
• Make sure the glove box closes normally.

---

✅ After Repair

• Start the HVAC blower and check for normal airflow.
• Listen for rattles from the glove box area.
• If airflow is weak, recheck filter direction and seating.

---

💰 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 0.3-0.5 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.