🔧 BRZ - Cabin Air Filter Replacement

Your BRZ’s cabin air filter cleans the air going through the heater and A/C. Replacing it helps reduce dust/pollen smells and improves airflow from the vents.

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

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⚠️ 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.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Trim removal tool (plastic)
• Phillips screwdriver #2
• Flashlight
• Nitrile gloves

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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 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.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the glove box

• Open the glove box fully and remove any contents.
• Use a flashlight to look along the right side for the small “damper” arm (a little strut that makes the glove box open slowly).

Step 2: Disconnect the glove box damper

• Gently pop the damper arm off its peg using a trim removal tool (plastic).
• Go slow; it should snap off smoothly.

Step 3: Drop the glove box down

• Press inward on both sides of the glove box (near the upper corners) with your hands to clear the side stops.
• Let the glove box swing downward on its hinges.

Step 4: Remove the cabin filter cover

• Behind the glove box, locate the rectangular cabin filter housing.
• Remove the cover by releasing the side tabs by hand, or use a trim removal tool (plastic) if needed.
• If your cover uses screws (some aftermarket housings do), remove them with a Phillips screwdriver #2.

Step 5: Remove the old cabin air filter

• Pull the filter straight out.
• Wear nitrile gloves if it’s dusty.
• Keep it level so debris doesn’t spill.

Step 6: Install the new cabin air filter

• Check the airflow direction marking on the filter frame (usually an arrow).
• Install it in the same direction as the old one (typically arrow pointing down toward the blower on this setup).
• Slide it in until fully seated; do not crush or fold it.

Step 7: Reinstall the cover and glove box

• Reinstall the cabin filter cover until the tabs click in.
• Lift the glove box back up and push the sides inward again to pass the stops.
• Reconnect the damper arm by pressing it back onto its peg by hand.
• Close the glove box.

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and turn the fan to medium/high to confirm strong airflow.
• Switch between fresh air and recirculate to make sure nothing is rattling behind the glove box.
• If you notice a “leaf smell,” run A/C for a few minutes on fresh air to clear it out.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $60-$130 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $15-$40 (parts only)

You Save: $45-$90 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.