
A8 has two air filters, divided into the internal air filter and the external air filter: the internal air filter is located under the glove box on the passenger side, where there is a cotton barrier. Opening it reveals a plastic cover plate, which is the air filter cover plate. Removing the plastic cover plate allows you to see the air filter; the external air filter is located at the front of the car, facing the engine, in the upper left part of the engine compartment. If you are sitting in the driver's seat, it is under the right wiper. The dimensions of the Audi A8 are 5268mm in length, 1949mm in width, and 1471mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3122mm.

The air filter location in my A8 is quite cleverly hidden. The most frequently replaced one is behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. You'll need to fully lower the glove box first, with small clips on both left and right sides - press them inward to make the glove box descend. Peering inside, there's a panel with several plastic knobs; unscrew them to reveal the rectangular filter housing. Carefully pull out the old filter to prevent dust from falling into the air ducts. Another filter might be located under the hood near the windshield base, requiring removal of the water deflector screws to access. DIY replacement saves good money - remember to get the activated carbon version for better filtration.

I'm very familiar with changing the A/C filter for my wife's A8—it's located behind the glove box. First, empty the glove box, then press the limiters on both sides inward with both hands, and the entire box will fold down flat. The plastic cover with an arrow inside is the filter compartment; turn the latch counterclockwise to open it. When removing the old filter, pay attention to the arrow direction. Last year, I noticed a musty smell from the vents, and upon opening it, the filter was completely blackened. Replacing it before the rainy season is especially important, otherwise, the A/C will just blow out a dusty, earthy smell. Don't believe marketing claims about 'lifetime no-replacement'—in big cities, you should check it every six months.

An experienced driver tells you that the A8's dual-filter design is very thoughtful. The main filter is located behind the glove compartment on the passenger side, requiring you to press open the side limiters to lower the glove box. When unscrewing the cover plate, be careful not to lose the small knob, and remember to pull the filter with the arrow facing down. There's also an auxiliary filter hidden under the water deflector at the rear of the engine compartment, accessible by removing six screws with a hex screwdriver. It's recommended to clean the fallen leaves at the air intake when replacing the cabin air filter. I use a vacuum cleaner to clean the air duct openings monthly to prevent odors, which is much healthier than masking smells with air fresheners.


