Where is the cabin air filter located in a 2012 BMW 116i?
2 Answers
The cabin air filter in a BMW 116i is located behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. Here are detailed explanations about automotive cabin air filters: 1. Function: Ensures the filter tightly fits the housing to prevent unfiltered air from entering the cabin. Separates solid impurities like dust, pollen, and abrasive particles from the air. Adsorbs moisture, soot, ozone, odors, carbon oxides, SO2, CO2, etc., with strong and lasting moisture absorption capability. 2. Maintenance: If the filter is dirty, clean it by blowing compressed air from the reverse side. Hold the air gun 5cm away from the filter and blow at 500kPa pressure for approximately 2 minutes. The cabin air filter easily accumulates dust; simply use compressed air to remove surface dust.
I remember when I drove the 2012 BMW 116i, the cabin air filter was located in the footwell area on the front passenger side. By opening the door and bending down, you could see a rectangular plastic cover clipped in place. It could be easily removed by gently prying it open with a flathead screwdriver or a small pry tool. Behind the cover was the filter housing, designed like a drawer—just pull it out to access the filter. The placement was quite user-friendly, specifically intended for easy DIY replacement without needing to dismantle the dashboard. I’ve changed it myself at home several times, typically once a year or every 15,000 kilometers. Otherwise, the air conditioning would start blowing dusty air, affecting respiratory health. Genuine BMW filters cost just over ten yuan online—affordable and safe. Just remember to turn off the engine before working to prevent short circuits.
