Where is the BMW's cabin air filter located?
2 Answers
There are two cabin air filters in a BMW. One is located under the glove box, secured by four screws. Removal requires lighting tools and is quite challenging—the process of removing the air filter is complicated, so it's best to have it replaced by a technician at a repair shop. The other filter is located in the engine compartment, near the wipers. The cabin air filter tends to accumulate a lot of dust, which can be blown away with compressed air—never wash it with water, as this can easily ruin it. Over time, the activated carbon filtration function of the cabin air filter diminishes, so it needs to be replaced periodically. The BMW 5 Series has body dimensions of 5087mm in length, 1868mm in width, and 1500mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3108mm.
I've been driving a BMW for many years, and the cabin air filter is usually hidden behind the glove compartment under the front passenger's feet. Open the glove compartment door, unscrew a few small clips or screws on the side, and you'll see a long rectangular box containing the filter. Replacing it yourself is quite simple—just prepare a flathead screwdriver and a new filter, and it can be done in about ten minutes. However, be gentle to avoid damaging the clips. The old filter accumulates dust and pollen; if not replaced in time, it can reduce airflow from the AC, cause odors, and make you sneeze while driving, leading to poor air quality inside the car. It's recommended to check and replace it every six months to a year, as the maintenance manual often emphasizes this point. Doing so can also save you some repair costs.
