🔧 Cabin Air Filter - Replacement

Your F-150’s cabin air filter sits behind the glove box. Replacing it restores airflow and helps reduce dust, odors, and debris entering the HVAC system.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.3-0.6 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn the ignition off before starting.
• Empty the glove box so it can open fully and safely.
• Use light pressure on the glove box stops and tabs; do not force them.
• No battery disconnect is required for this job.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Trim removal tool (specialty)
• Flashlight
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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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.
• Turn the HVAC system off.
• Remove anything stored in the glove box.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open and support the glove box

• Open the glove box fully.
• Use your hands to gently squeeze the sides of the glove box inward so the stops clear the opening.
• Let the glove box swing down slowly.

Step 2: Remove the glove box stop strap

• Use a trim removal tool (specialty) if needed to gently release the passenger-side stop strap.
• Set the glove box aside carefully so the hinge is not stressed.

Step 3: Access the cabin filter cover

• Look behind the glove box on the HVAC housing.
• Use your fingers to release the cabin filter cover tabs.
• Remove the cover straight out.
• Keep track of the cover tabs.

Step 4: Remove the old filter

• Slide the old cabin air filter out of the housing by hand.
• Note the airflow arrow on the old filter before removing it.

Step 5: Install the new filter

• Insert the new cabin air filter with the airflow arrow pointing the same direction as the original filter.
• Make sure the filter seats fully and does not buckle.
• Do not crush the filter.

Step 6: Reinstall the cover and glove box

• Reinstall the cabin filter cover until the tabs click into place.
• Lift the glove box back up.
• Squeeze the sides again if needed and guide the stops back into position.
• Reattach the stop strap.

Step 7: Verify operation

• Turn the ignition on.
• Run the blower fan and confirm strong airflow.
• Make sure the glove box opens and closes normally.

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✅ After Repair

• Check for proper airflow from the vents.
• Listen for any rattles from the glove box area.
• Replace the cabin air filter every 12 months or sooner if the air gets weak or dusty.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $70-$140 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $15-$35 (parts only)

You Save: $55-$105 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.6 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.