Where is the cabin air filter located in a 2013 Mazda 3?
4 Answers
The cabin air filter in a 2013 Mazda 3 is located inside the glove compartment on the passenger side. Open the glove compartment and remove the inner panel to access it. The 2013 Mazda 3 is a compact car with the following dimensions: length 4515mm, width 1745mm, height 1465mm, wheelbase 2640mm, fuel tank capacity 55 liters, and trunk capacity 300 liters. It features MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. The vehicle is equipped with a 1.6L naturally aspirated engine producing 107PS maximum horsepower, 79kW maximum power, and 146Nm maximum torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
I remember last time I helped a friend replace the cabin air filter on a 2013 Mazda3, it was located behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. It required a bit of finesse to remove: first empty the glove box, then pinch both sides of the glove box inward to release the clips and lower the entire unit. Looking inside, there's a palm-sized plastic cover with a small clip that can be popped open with a fingernail. When pulling out the old filter, remember to note the arrow direction - the new filter must be inserted in the same orientation to avoid installing it backwards. You can use either genuine Mazda filters or third-party universal ones of the correct size. Doing it yourself takes about ten minutes and saves about 200 yuan compared to dealership service. I recommend wearing gloves during the process, as the metal brackets under the windshield can easily scratch your hands.
Last month, while replacing the air filter in my old Mazda 3, I fumbled around for quite some time. It turns out it's hidden deep inside the glove compartment on the passenger side. No tools are needed—just press firmly inward on both sides of the glove compartment, and once the inner clips release, the entire compartment can be lowered. Get down and use your phone's flashlight to spot the black plastic cover with an arrow label—that's the filter housing. Be careful not to snap the fragile plastic tabs when lifting the cover. The old filter was covered in dust, willow catkins, and tiny bugs. When replacing it, remember the airflow direction indicator, and don't skimp by buying a thin replacement filter. While you're at it, wipe down the metal mesh at the air intake for the recirculation system—that's where the most dust accumulates.
The operation can be divided into three steps: First, empty the glove box; second, squeeze both sides of the glove box with both hands to release the limiters; third, locate and replace the cover panel. The filter is located in front of the air conditioning blower, with the arrow pointing towards the driver's seat. The universal size is CF32 or the specific model corresponding to the year. The tricky part is mastering the force when handling the glove box limiters—press down on the box with your knee until you hear a click. Be sure to replace it before the rainy season to avoid musty odors.
