How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter in a Santana?

[StLaura]

Santana's cabin air filter replacement method is: 1. The cabin air filter is located below the glove compartment. Look upward at the lower left side of the glove compartment to find a flip cover secured by three clips - this is the access point for the filter; 2. Open all three clips to reveal the cabin air filter, then gently pull it out; 3. During installation, align the arrow to the left, carefully insert the filter along the slot, and secure the cover plate. The Santana is equipped with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, delivering maximum power at 6100 rpm and peak torque at 4000 rpm, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

[AdrianAnn]

I remember when I last changed the Santana's cabin air filter myself, I found it hidden behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. First, empty the glove box, then press both sides of the glove box inward with both hands to release the clips and slowly lower it. See that rectangular plastic cover with an arrow? Use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the screws on both sides of the cover, then lift the cover to pull out the old filter. Pay special attention to the airflow direction arrow on the filter—the new filter must be installed in the same orientation. Installing it backward reduces dust filtration efficiency and can cause odors. Finally, tighten the cover screws and push the glove box back into place until it clicks. Doing it yourself takes about half an hour and saves over 200 yuan compared to going to a shop. Regular replacements are especially helpful for people with rhinitis.

[ChristianFitz]

My neighbor, an old hand at driving, taught me this trick: To change the air filter in a Santana, you need to prepare a new filter element and a Phillips screwdriver. After emptying the glove compartment, press hard on both sides to release the clips and lower it. See the white filter box? Unscrew the lid and remember the direction when pulling out the old filter. Don’t skimp on the new filter—cheap no-name brands from Taobao can deform in just three months, unlike durable ones from Bosch or Mann. When installing the new filter, make sure the arrow direction matches the old one, and don’t overtighten the lid screws to avoid stripping. The most crucial part is resetting the glove compartment—listen for the click to ensure it’s properly in place, or it’ll rattle when driving on bumpy roads.

[EllianaLee]

Experience shared by someone who has changed the Santana's cabin air filter three times: Lower the glove compartment completely, unscrew the two screws on the filter cover, and slide the old filter out along the track without pulling hard. Pay attention to the front and back markings on the new filter, insert it back into place, and tighten the cover. Important reminder for beginners: Never wash the filter with water, as the paper material will disintegrate. The first time I didn’t know and rinsed it with water, resulting in a musty smell when the AC was turned on. Additionally, spring and autumn are the best seasons for replacement. Changing the filter every six months ensures odor-free airflow, especially important for families with children to maintain air quality.

[MacDominic]

Changing the AC filter yourself is super cost-effective—dealerships charge 300 for labor, while buying your own filter costs just 30 bucks. The process is just five steps: empty the glove box; press both sides of the box to unlock; locate the filter compartment, unscrew, and open the cover; replace the filter in the direction of the arrow; reverse the steps to reassemble. Don’t buy activated carbon filters—the Santana’s air duct design works best with standard paper filters. Last time, I bought a carbon filter hoping to eliminate odors, but it cut the airflow in half. Remember to run the AC at max for five minutes after installation to clear any dust or debris from the process.