Where is the air conditioning filter located in the Golf?
3 Answers
The air conditioning filter in the Golf is located inside the glove compartment on the passenger side. To replace it, simply remove the glove compartment. The air conditioning filter should generally be replaced every six months or 10,000 kilometers. If the replacement interval is exceeded, the filtering performance of the air conditioning filter will deteriorate, allowing particulate pollutants in the air to enter the cylinders directly, which can lead to carbon buildup. This may result in reduced power, increased fuel consumption, and, over time, a shortened engine lifespan. The Golf is a classic compact hatchback family car, with dimensions of 41999mm in length, 17869mm in width, and 14799mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2578mm. It is equipped with EA211 series 1.6L and 1.4T engines.
Last year, I replaced the cabin air filter on my Golf GTI myself. That thing is usually located in the footwell on the passenger side, right beneath the floor mat. There's a small plastic cover panel on the left or in the middle—you'll need to lift the floor mat first, then release a few clips to remove the cover. The filter is simply inserted into a slot and can be pulled straight out. When installing the new one, remember to align the arrow direction upwards—don't put it in backwards. The replacement is super easy and takes less than ten minutes—just a screwdriver does the trick. I recommend changing it every six months to a year, especially during spring when pollen levels are high. A dirty filter makes the air inside the car terrible and can trigger sneezing. Regular replacement is great for your family's health and saves you the labor costs at the repair shop. I always feel much more at ease doing it myself.
As someone who frequently does DIY car maintenance, I've found that the location of the air conditioning filter in the Golf series is quite fixed—it's in the floor area on the passenger side, near the underside of the dashboard. First, you need to move the floor mat aside, then use a flat-head screwdriver to pry open the black cover by releasing several plastic clips. The filter is hidden inside like a drawer. Before pulling it out, it's best to use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust to avoid flying debris entering the car. Generally, Volkswagen recommends replacing it once a year, or more frequently if you drive a lot. A dirty filter can cause a musty smell in the AC, affecting comfort. For those with good DIY skills, trying it yourself isn't difficult—it saves money and teaches a new skill.
