What are the steps to replace a car's air conditioning filter?
2 Answers
Replacing a car's air conditioning filter involves the following steps: 1. Open the glove box and release the clips on both sides with your fingers. 2. Lift the glove box upwards to remove the clips. 3. Lower the glove box to reveal a black cover panel; press the clips on both sides to remove the cover and expose the air conditioning filter. 4. Take out the old air conditioning filter and replace it with a new one. Below are the functions of a car's air conditioning filter: 1. Ensures the filter fits tightly against the housing, preventing unfiltered air from entering the cabin. 2. Separates solid impurities such as dust, pollen, and abrasive particles from the air. 3. Absorbs moisture, soot, ozone, odors, carbon oxides, SO2, CO2, etc., from the air; it has strong and long-lasting moisture absorption capabilities.
I've always enjoyed DIY car repairs, and replacing the cabin air filter is quite simple. First, park on level ground and turn off the engine for safety. Then, I usually locate the glove compartment area on the passenger side, remove the screws or clips inside, and gently take out the box without damaging it. You'll then see the filter cover—open it and pull out the old filter, which is often extremely dirty and may even have mold. It's best to replace it every 10,000 km or once a year to prevent pollen or dust from entering the cabin. When installing the new filter, make sure the arrow direction aligns with the airflow—don't insert it backward. Reassemble the glove compartment and test the AC; the air will immediately feel much fresher. I recommend buying a filter that matches your car model in advance—just search online for the correct part number, and avoid cheap ones that may not filter properly. The whole process takes about 15 minutes, saving you money and giving you peace of mind, unlike the expensive shop fees.