How to Replace the Air Conditioning Filter in a 2016 Nissan Qashqai?
4 Answers
The air conditioning filter of the Qashqai is located under the driver's seat. The replacement steps are as follows: 1. Remove the plastic panel on the right side of the accelerator pedal. 2. Pull down the handle above. 3. You will see the air conditioning filter; pull it out at a 45-degree angle and replace it with a new one. The frequency for replacing the air conditioning filter is as follows: 1. If the airflow from the air conditioner significantly decreases, the filter may be clogged. First, clean the filter or replace it if necessary. 2. The cleaning frequency depends on road conditions (dusty roads, etc.). 3. The air conditioning filter should be correctly installed in its position. Using the air conditioner without the filter may degrade dustproof performance and affect the air conditioner's efficiency.
I just replaced the air conditioning filter on my 2016 Nissan Qashqai by myself, and it was quite simple—no need to waste money at the dealership. The filter is located behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. First, open the glove box, gently pull it outward, then press the clips on both sides to remove it. Next, you'll see a rectangular filter cover; push it firmly to open and pull out the old filter for inspection. If it's dusty or moldy, replace it immediately. When installing the new filter, pay attention to the arrow direction—it should point toward the airflow inside the car to ensure proper filtration. Finally, reassemble the glove box in order. The whole process takes about 10 minutes. Replacing the air filter regularly is good for respiratory health. I recommend changing it every 10,000 km or once a year, especially for the Qashqai, as its air vents tend to accumulate dust. No special tools are needed—just your hands—but if the clips are too tight, a flathead screwdriver can help. After the replacement, the air from the AC feels noticeably fresher.
As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I think changing the X-Trail's cabin air filter is especially suitable for beginners to practice. It's hidden behind the glove box—first, unclip the plastic fasteners on both sides of the box to remove it without yanking to avoid cracks. Once the filter compartment is exposed, open the cover, pull out the old filter, and replace it with a new one, making sure to align it correctly with the airflow direction arrow. The whole process took me 20 minutes on my first try, went smoothly, and saved me over a hundred bucks in repair fees. Regularly changing the filter is quite important because when it gets clogged, the air quality inside the car deteriorates, easily triggering allergies and sneezing, especially in summer when the AC blows out dusty smells. The X-Trail's filter location design isn't too complicated—much simpler than some German cars—and doesn't even require tools; you can do it barehanded. After replacing it, I recommend testing the AC immediately—the airflow increases noticeably. I usually change it once a year or whenever I detect odd smells from the AC, avoiding delays.
I've been driving the Qashqai for several years and changing the air conditioning filter is quite quick. Let me share the steps. Mainly, press open the clips on both sides of the glove compartment on the passenger side, take it out, and you'll see the filter cover. Push it open, take out the old one, and replace it with a new one, making sure to install it in the direction of the arrow (don't put it in backwards). Then, put the glove compartment back in place, press the clips a few times to secure it, and you're done. This job is simple; doing it yourself saves time and money, and you can also learn a bit about car maintenance. When the filter gets old, the air isn't fresh, so changing it regularly is good for your health, especially in spring when there's a lot of pollen.
