How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2018 Nissan Armada (Glove Box Access)
Step-by-step instructions with required tools, filter direction tips, and post-install airflow checks for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2018 Nissan Armada (Glove Box Access)
Step-by-step instructions with required tools, filter direction tips, and post-install airflow checks for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
đź”§ Armada - Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Your Armada’s cabin air filter cleans the air coming through the A/C and heater vents. Replacing it helps airflow, reduces musty odors, and keeps dust/pollen out of the cabin.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.25-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key before working under the dash.
- ⚠️ Don’t force plastic tabs; they can crack in cold weather.
- ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this job.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Trim clip removal tool
- Phillips #2 screwdriver
- Small flashlight
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Cabin air filter - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Move the front passenger seat back to give yourself room.
- Have a trash bag ready—the old filter can be dusty.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open and empty the glove box
- Remove items so nothing falls out while the glove box is lowered.
- Use a small flashlight to locate the glove box sides and damper area.
Step 2: Lower the glove box to access the filter door
- Gently press in on both sides of the glove box to release the stops so the glove box can swing down farther.
- If your Armada has a small “damper” arm on the right side (a little slow-down strap), carefully unhook it by hand or with a trim clip removal tool.
- Tip: Press one side at a time if tight.
Step 3: Remove the cabin filter access cover
- Behind the glove box, find the rectangular cabin filter cover.
- Release the cover tabs by hand; if a screw is present on your cover, remove it using a Phillips #2 screwdriver.
- Set the cover aside where it won’t get stepped on.
Step 4: Pull out the old cabin air filter
- Wear nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
- Slide the old filter straight out. Keep it level to avoid dumping debris.
- Check the filter slot for leaves/dirt; wipe out gently by hand (no tools needed).
Step 5: Install the new cabin air filter (correct direction)
- Look for the airflow arrow on the new filter’s frame.
- Install it so the arrow matches airflow direction (typically pointing down toward the blower on this style housing).
- Slide the filter in fully—do not crush or fold it.
- Tip: If it won’t slide, re-check orientation.
Step 6: Reinstall the cover and raise the glove box
- Reinstall the filter access cover until the tabs click in place.
- If removed, reinstall the screw using a Phillips #2 screwdriver (snug only—do not over-tighten).
- Reattach the glove box damper arm (if equipped) by hand.
- Lift the glove box and press the sides in again to pass the stops back into place.
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and run the blower on all speeds to confirm good airflow and no rattles.
- Turn on A/C and heat briefly to ensure no unusual noise from the blower.
- If there’s a musty smell, run fresh air (not recirculation) for a few minutes.
đź’° 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 0.3-0.5 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
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