How to Replace the Air Conditioning Filter in the Mazda3 Axela?
2 Answers
The method to replace the air conditioning filter in the Mazda3 Axela is to open the glove box. On the right side of the glove box, use a small flat-head screwdriver to insert and pry gently. Push both side walls of the glove box lightly with both hands, and the glove box can be removed. After removing the glove box, you will see the cover of the air conditioning filter. Gently pry the cover to one side, then remove the other side to reveal the air conditioning filter. Pull the filter paper to extract the filter. Insert the new filter gently without using excessive force, then reattach the cover and the glove box. Below is additional information: 1. When a car is driving with the air conditioning on, it draws in external air into the cabin. However, the air contains various particles such as dust, pollen, soot, grinding particles, ozone, odors, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, carbon dioxide, benzene, etc. Without an air conditioning filter, these particles can enter the cabin, not only polluting the car's air conditioning system and reducing the cooling system's performance but also causing allergic reactions, lung damage, irritation from ozone, and unpleasant odors, all of which can affect driving safety. A high-quality air filter can absorb fine particles, reduce respiratory discomfort, lessen irritation for allergy sufferers, enhance driving comfort, and protect the air conditioning cooling system. 2. Generally, the frequency of replacing the car's air conditioning filter depends on usage. For typical urban family cars, it is recommended to replace it every six months or once a year. If you often drive on dusty roads, more dust will enter the cabin, making the air conditioning system dirtier. Additionally, some users prefer parking under trees or temporarily stopping near trees, where falling fruits can land on the air filter's intake, also causing the filter to become very dirty and requiring earlier replacement. Furthermore, the varying frequency of air conditioning use in different seasons can also have some impact.
I often do car repairs myself, and replacing the Mazda 3's cabin air filter isn't too complicated. The main location is under the front passenger footwell—you'll need to crouch down to see it. There's a small cover there. The tools you'll need are just a Phillips screwdriver or you can use your hands. If it doesn't pry open easily, remove a few screws first, but be gentle to avoid damaging the plastic parts. After locating the cover, gently pull it open or unscrew it to remove the old filter. Remember its installation direction—usually the arrow points upward or inward—don't install it backward. Buying a compatible filter online is much cheaper than the OEM one, which is too expensive. Before inserting the new filter, it's best to vacuum the filter slot to remove dust and prevent clogging. When reinstalling the cover, just align the clips and press it into place. Finally, start the car and test the AC to check airflow and odor improvement. Doing it yourself saves on shop labor costs and keeps your AC system clean, especially if you replace it before autumn to prevent pollen allergies.
