DIY: Engine Air Filter and Cabin Air Filter Replacement
INTRODUCTION
Did you know your Nissan's engine requires clean air to breathe, just like you? To help ensure peak performance, your Nissan's engine relies upon a simple component: the engine air filter. Then there's the cabin air filter to keep you breathing easy. It removes contaminants within your vehicle. Both parts are similar but perform different functions and require different replacement techniques.
If you can't remember the last time you changed either, you're likely overdue for a replacement. Use this guide to learn the difference between your engine air filter and cabin air filter, signs it's time for a filter replacement, and when and how you should replace your air filters.
CABIN AIR FILTERS vs. ENGINE AIR FILTERS
The engine air filter and cabin filter are essential components of your Nissan. Both filters capture dirt, particulates, and air contaminants. Though these parts perform a similar function, they perform in different areas.
WHAT IS THE ENGINE AIR FILTER?
Your engine air filter is located at your engine's air intake and filters the air that flows from outside of your vehicle into your engine. Your engine requires fresh, clean air to perform. Your Nissan engine air filter is responsible for filtering out road dust, bugs, dirt, water, particles, and other contaminants to ensure your engine stays clean and runs smoothly. When your engine air filter is missing or dirty, you're likely to see a decrease in performance and fuel economy.
WHAT IS THE CABIN AIR FILTER?
The cabin air filter is responsible for removing dust and pollen from the air to ensure you and your passengers breathe easily. Depending on the year and model of your Nissan, you can locate your cabin air filter behind the glove box, ??under the dash, or under the hood. Check your owner's manual. As air passes through your HVAC system, your Nissan cabin air filter catches floating contaminants. Even when you're not running your Nissan's heating ventilation or air conditioning system, the cabin air filter is hard at work ensuring the air you and your passengers breathe is as clean as possible.
WHEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY ENGINE AIR FILTER AND CABIN AIR FILTER?
To ensure you have a quality driving experience, you'll need to replace both your engine air filter and cabin air filter when they become too dirty. Maintenance intervals for these parts will vary depending on your Nissan's model and year, as well as your driving conditions.
WHEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY NISSAN'S ENGINE AIR FILTER?
If you're wondering when to replace your engine air filter, the answer is about every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. However, you may need to replace your Nissan engine air filter more frequently, depending upon your environment and driving conditions.
Driving with a dirty filter could not only increase the likelihood of engine damage ‐ it could also harm your finances! When your engine air filter is overdue for a replacement, you may notice:
- You're filling your tank more often due to a decrease in fuel economy
- Your Nissan is prone to a rough idle
- The check engine light has switched on
- It's harder to start your car
- Less torque as you accelerate or jolting
- More engine noise
- Black exhaust coming from your Nissan's tailpipe
- The air filter housing is full of leaves, sticks, dirt, or other contaminants
- The engine air filter appears dirty
When you notice any of the signs above, check and change your engine air filter promptly. Consult your owner's manual and select the Nissan engine air filter that is right for your vehicle's year and model.
WHEN SHOULD I CHANGE MY NISSAN'S CABIN AIR FILTER?
Your Nissan cabin air filter should be swapped out every 15,000 to 30,000 miles but may require more frequent replacing if you live in an area with high amounts of dust or other air contaminants.
Generally, you'll need to think about when to replace your cabin air filter if you notice:
- An unpleasant, musty smell in the cabin
- Grime accumulating in the air filter housing
- Weak airflow from your HVAC vents, even on the highest setting
- A light whistling sound when the heat or air conditioning is on
- Constant noise while the AC or heat is running
There are many reasons to replace your cabin air filter. An overdue cabin air filter can result in poor air quality, undesirable odors, and potentially dangerous air contaminants in your Nissan's interior, especially when you are running either the heat or air conditioning systems.
HOW DO I CHANGE MY ENGINE AIR FILTER AND CABIN AIR FILTER?
Nissan has designed both your engine air filter and cabin air filter to be easily serviceable. You can replace your engine air filter or cabin air filter at home with the correct tools and parts.
HOW TO CHANGE THE ENGINE AIR FILTER
Exact engine air filter replacement procedures vary depending upon your Nissan's model and year, so you'll want to check your Nissan's owner's manual.
To replace your engine air filter, pop your hood and locate the air filter housing. Your air filter housing will be located on top of or next to your Nissan's engine.
Then, prepare to remove your old filter gently. Your Nissan's engine filter may be held in place with clips, clamps, or screws. Remove the fastening components with an appropriate tool and set them aside. Once you remove the old engine air filter, wipe down the air filter housing and remove any large debris.
Once your engine air filter housing is cleaned and prepared, position your new engine air filter in the housing with the rubber rim facing up. Ensure your air filter is positioned correctly, and reattach your clips. Once you've closed the air filter housing up, you've successfully replaced your air engine filter!
HOW TO CHANGE THE CABIN AIR FILTER
In newer vehicles, the cabin air filter is generally located behind the glove compartment. You may need to remove your glovebox to swap out your cabin air filter. If you find it difficult to remove the glovebox, you can bring your Nissan into a service center and have a certified technician perform the replacement.
Once you've accessed your cabin air filter, gently remove your old cabin filter. Typically, your cabin air filter slides into the housing without the use of fastenings. Once your cabin air filter is removed, you may want to dust or vacuum out the area to remove any accumulated debris.
Next, replace your cabin air filter. Your air filter should have arrows or marks denoting the airflow and direction of insertion. Once you've replaced your glove box, dash, or other components, you've completed your Nissan's cabin air filter replacement.
ENSURE YOUR NISSAN PERFORMS WITH GENUINE NISSAN PARTS
Your engine air filter and cabin air filter help both you and your car breathe easily. Ensure your Nissan performs as designed by selecting genuine Nissan air filters. When you shop genuine OEM parts, you can rest assured that you have quality replacement parts designed to fit your Nissan best.
Schedule an appointment with your local Nissan service center if you'd prefer to leave your engine air filter or cabin air filter replacement to the pros. By choosing genuine Nissan replacement parts, you can help ensure factory-grade performance from your vehicle for miles to come.