What is the method for replacing the air conditioning filter in the Cruze?
4 Answers
The method for replacing the air conditioning filter in the Cruze is: Open the glove compartment on the passenger side, and there are limit clips on both inner sides. Remove them by hand to lower the glove compartment. Inside, there is a black plastic cover plate. Unclip the fasteners by hand to remove the cover plate, and you will see the air conditioning filter. Pull it out by hand and replace it with a new one. Taking the 2018 Cruze as an example, it is a compact car with body dimensions of length 4666mm, width 1807mm, height 1460mm, and a wheelbase of 2700mm. The 2018 Cruze is equipped with a 1.4T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 150PS, a maximum torque of 240Nm, and a maximum power of 110kW, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
I often help friends with car repairs, and I'm very familiar with the Cruze. The cabin air filter is hidden behind the glove box on the passenger side. First, you need to pull out the entire drawer-style storage compartment, being careful not to forcefully break the limit rods on both sides. Then, you'll see a long plastic cover panel—just pinch the clips to remove it. When pulling out the old filter, check the direction of the arrow on it, and make sure to insert the new filter the same way. Installing it backward is as good as not replacing it at all. If you notice cracks in the cover panel during removal, just apply some sealant and press it firmly. Regularly replacing the filter prevents musty smells in the AC and makes long drives more comfortable to breathe.
Last time I changed the air filter for my old Cruze, I summarized some tips. All you need are a Phillips screwdriver and a vacuum cleaner. Lower the glove compartment on the passenger side completely, then press inward on both sides to remove the entire compartment. The clips on the filter compartment cover are particularly fragile, so remember to support it with your palm while pushing outward. After removing the filter, use the vacuum cleaner to remove accumulated dust from the air ducts. Be sure to compare the thickness of the old and new filters, as a filter that's too thin will reduce filtration efficiency. After replacement, turn on the maximum fan speed for one minute to clear out any debris like broken leaves in the corners of the filter compartment. Ideally, change it twice a year in spring and autumn to prevent willow catkins from clogging the air vents.
DIY is actually super easy. Just sit in the front passenger seat and extend your legs into the footwell for convenient operation. There are two rotating clips at the bottom of the glove box—simply twist them 90 degrees to release. The filter cover has arrows indicating the installation direction; take a photo with your phone before replacing to avoid mistakes. Online-purchased filters with activated carbon cost only about 30 yuan, while dealerships charge 200. When installing the new filter, flatten the folds to ensure proper placement. Align the cover clips correctly and gently tap them tight with your fist. The instant disappearance of bad odors when turning on the AC is truly satisfying.
