Buying the Correct Cabin Air Filter

Aaron Richardson

January 05, 2026

3 min read

Aaron Richardson

January 05, 2026

3 min read

A cabin air filter - opens in new window or tab. is a simple device. The filter, usually paper, is located either under your dashboard or behind your glovebox. Our video and guide to cabin air filter replacement - opens in new window or tab. provide step-by-step instructions.

Choosing the Right Cabin Air Filter

lt: A mechanic wearing orange and white work gloves compares two cabin air filters, with a used filter on the left and a new filter on the right. — The cabin air filter on the left is due for replacement.

For many parts and accessories, it’s nice to buy original equipment manufacturer (OEM) - opens in new window or tab. or equivalent parts. OEM refers to parts that are either branded directly by your automaker or produced by a company that supplies your automaker with factory parts. However, with cabin air filters, it’s fine to get an aftermarket replacement. Just make sure that it fits your vehicle.

Go to the eBay Motors Parts Finder - opens in new window or tab. and enter in your year, make, model, engine, and trim. Then, you can search for cabin air filters guaranteed to fit your vehicle.

Preferred aftermarket brands include Fram and Mahle. Again, nearly all air filters do the same job.

All cabin air filters are pretty much created equal, so there’s no need to get into the weeds about different types or styles of filters. Find one that matches the part number for your car, and you’re done. The only caveat is that some cars, especially luxury vehicles, might have more than one cabin filter. The filter elements might be a higher grade.

Though it might not be as critical to go OEM when buying cabin filters, the price difference between a no-name part and a reputable brand is small.

Cabin Air Filter Cost

An owner replaces the cabin air filter in his vehicle’s glove compartment. — Most cabin air filters are accessed through the glove compartment.

The filter should cost between about $10 and $20. On expensive cars with more than one cabin filter, you can expect the cost to slightly increase, but not by much.

If you elect to have a shop replace your cabin air filter, it’s more expensive than doing it yourself. Shops not only charge you for their labor but also mark up the parts. The job is quick, especially for a skilled mechanic, but shop labor rates are generally $100 an hour or more, so it can add up quickly. Remember, this is an ultra-easy DIY job.

Tools to Replace Your Cabin Air Filter

A seven-piece Workpro pliers set, displayed on a white background. — A complete set of pliers is a welcome addition to any DIY toolbox.

You don’t necessarily need tools for this job. Cabin air filters are typically designed to go in and out by hand. Only a few clips stand in your way. Some automakers make things a bit harder to access, but you should only need a socket set, flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers, and a pair of pliers, if that. Getting to the cabin air filter could be the trickiest part of the job. You may have to remove some screws and clips.

The cabin air filter is a standalone part, so there aren’t parts that need replacing at the same time. We recommend making cabin air filter replacement part of your regular maintenance routine. For example, if you’re replacing other filters and fluids, it’s a great time to check or replace your cabin filter.

About the author

Aaron Richardson

Aaron learned early on that it's easier to be decent at a bunch of stuff than great at one thing, which led neatly to a career as a writer. He has been an automotive writer, a newspaper editor, and a business reporter, and has always worked on his own cars and bikes. When he isn't writing stories, he's wrenching on a '74 BMW 2002 or riding a motorcycle.

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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.