How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2020-2022 Kia Telluride (Glove Box Method) (Engine: V6 3.8L)
Step-by-step instructions with required tools, filter direction tips, and post-install airflow checks
How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on a 2020-2022 Kia Telluride (Glove Box Method) (Engine: V6 3.8L)
Step-by-step instructions with required tools, filter direction tips, and post-install airflow checks for 2020, 2021, 2022
đź”§ Telluride - Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Your cabin air filter cleans the air that comes through the A/C and heater vents. When it gets dirty, you may notice weak airflow, musty smells, or more dust inside your Telluride.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.25-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- 🛑 Turn the ignition OFF and remove the key/fob from the vehicle.
- 🛑 Work gently around the glove box—plastic tabs can snap if forced.
- 🛑 Battery disconnect is not required for this job.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Small flat trim tool
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Cabin air filter - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park your Telluride on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Move the passenger seat back for more working space.
- Have a trash bag ready—old filters can dump dust/leaves.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open and empty the glove box
- Open the glove box fully and remove any items.
- Use a flashlight to look along the right side for the glove box “damper” (a small arm that slows the glove box).
Step 2: Disconnect the glove box damper
- Use a small flat trim tool to gently pry the damper arm off its pin/clip on the glove box side. Go slow—don’t twist hard.
- Damper = the little arm that soft-opens the glove box.
Step 3: Release the glove box stops and lower the glove box
- With both hands, push the glove box sides inward to clear the built-in “stops.”
- Let the glove box rotate downward until it hangs open, giving access behind it.
Step 4: Remove the cabin filter cover
- Behind the glove box, locate the rectangular cabin filter door.
- Press the locking tabs and pull the cover off by hand (use the flashlight to see the tabs clearly).
Step 5: Remove the old cabin air filter
- Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
- Slide the filter straight out. Keep it level so debris doesn’t fall into the housing.
- Tip: Vacuum nearby dust if needed.
Step 6: Install the new cabin air filter
- Check the airflow arrow on the new filter and match it to the direction marked on the housing/door.
- Slide the new filter in straight, without bending it.
Step 7: Reinstall the cover and glove box
- Reinstall the filter cover until the tabs click in place.
- Lift the glove box back up and push the sides inward again to pass the stops.
- Reconnect the damper arm (press it back onto its pin/clip by hand; use the small flat trim tool only if needed to guide it).
âś… After Repair
- Start your Telluride and run the blower on medium-high to confirm strong airflow.
- Switch between fresh air and recirculate to verify normal operation and no rattles from the glove box area.
- If you still have a musty smell, consider an A/C evaporator cleaner service next.
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $60-$140 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$45 (parts only)
You Save: $45-$95 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.
Guide for Cabin Air Filter replace for these Kia vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Kia Telluride | - | V6 3.8L | - |
| 2021 Kia Telluride | - | V6 3.8L | - |
| 2020 Kia Telluride | - | V6 3.8L | - |

















