🔧 Cabin Air Filter - Replacement

The cabin air filter on your Prius sits behind the glove box. Replacing it restores airflow and helps keep dust, pollen, and odors out of the cabin.

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

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Make sure the vehicle is fully OFF before starting.
• Keep the glove box supported when removing the stopper arm.
• No battery disconnect is required for this job.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Trim panel tool
• Flashlight
• Safety glasses
• 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

• Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
• Open the passenger door for easier access.
• Tip: Vacuum loose debris before removing the filter.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the glove box

• Use your hand to open the glove box fully.
• Remove anything inside so it can drop down easily.

Step 2: Release the glove box damper

• Use your hand to gently unhook the damper arm on the right side of the glove box.
• Move slowly so the plastic clip does not break.

Step 3: Lower the glove box

• Press inward on both sides of the glove box to clear the stops.
• Let the glove box swing down carefully.

Step 4: Remove the cabin filter cover

• Use your hand to release the tabs on the cabin air filter cover.
• Pull the cover straight out.

Step 5: Remove the old filter

• Slide the old cabin air filter straight out.
• Note the airflow arrow on the filter before removing it.
• Tip: Keep the arrow direction in mind.

Step 6: Install the new filter

• Use your hand to slide in the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing the same direction as the old one.
• Make sure it sits flat in the housing.

Step 7: Reinstall the cover and glove box

• Snap the cabin filter cover back into place by hand.
• Lift the glove box back up and press the sides inward to clear the stops.
• Reattach the damper arm on the right side.

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✅ After Repair

• Turn the fan on and verify strong airflow.
• Check that the glove box opens and closes normally.
• If air still smells musty, inspect the HVAC intake area for debris.

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💰 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.

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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.