Nissan Altima Cabin Air Filter Replacement: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide​

Replacing the cabin air filter in your Nissan Altima is a straightforward, sub-15-minute maintenance task that can significantly improve your vehicle's air quality, climate system performance, and your own driving comfort. Unlike many car repairs, this job requires no special tools, advanced mechanical skills, or a trip to the dealership, saving you time and money. This definitive guide will walk you through the entire process for every Altima generation from 2002 to the present, helping you locate the filter, choose the right replacement, and complete the swap correctly the first time.

​Why Replacing Your Altima's Cabin Air Filter Matters​

The cabin air filter is your first line of defense for the air you breathe inside your car. It is tasked with cleaning the outside air before it enters the passenger compartment through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. A fresh filter traps a wide array of contaminants, including dust, pollen, smog, mold spores, and exhaust soot. Over time, typically every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or once a year, this filter becomes clogged with this debris. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your HVAC blower motor to work harder, which can lead to reduced heating and cooling efficiency, unpleasant odors, and increased fan noise. For allergy sufferers, a clean filter is essential. Therefore, regular inspection and replacement is a critical piece of preventative maintenance that directly impacts your health and your vehicle's system longevity.

​Locating the Cabin Air Filter in Your Nissan Altima​

The cabin air filter's location is not universal across all model years. The Nissan Altima primarily uses two main locations, with the shift occurring around the 2013 model year, which marked the start of the fifth generation (L33).

• ​For Nissan Altima Models (Approx. 2002 - 2012):​​ This includes the fourth generation (B7) and earlier. In these vehicles, the filter housing is located ​under the hood, on the passenger side of the vehicle. Specifically, it is found against the firewall, tucked under the windshield cowl panel. You access it by releasing a few clips or screws on a black plastic cover. This design requires you to open the hood to service the filter.

• ​For Nissan Altima Models (2013 - Present):​​ This encompasses the fifth generation (L33, 2013-2018) and the current sixth generation (A36, 2019-present). In a significant design change, Nissan moved the filter housing ​inside the passenger cabin. It is now located behind the glove compartment. This interior location is more common in modern vehicles and generally allows for easier, tool-free access in most conditions, as you do not need to open the hood.

​Tools and Parts You Will Need​

The tool requirement is minimal. For most model years, especially 2013 and newer, you may need no tools at all. Having the following items ready will ensure a smooth process:

1. ​The Correct Replacement Filter:​​ This is the most crucial part. Filters are model-year specific. A filter for a 2010 Altima will not fit a 2015. Always confirm compatibility using your vehicle's year, make, and model. Brands like FRAM, Bosch, EPAuto, and OEM Nissan are widely available.
2. ​Flashlight or Shop Light:​​ The interior behind the glove box or the engine bay compartment can be dark.
3. ​Vacuum Cleaner (Optional but Recommended):​​ Useful for cleaning out leaves, debris, and dust from the filter housing before installing the new filter.
4. ​Screwdriver (Phillips Head):​​ May be needed for some under-hood covers on older models or for the glove box damper on certain years.
5. ​Shop Towels or Gloves:​​ The old filter can be quite dirty.

​Step-by-Step Replacement Guide for 2013-Present Altima (Behind Glove Box)​​

This is the most common procedure for the majority of Altimas on the road today.

1. ​Prepare the Vehicle:​​ Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and turn the ignition off. Open the passenger door and the glove compartment.
2. ​Empty and Lower the Glove Compartment:​​ Remove all contents from the glove box. Look at the sides of the glove box. You will see a stop or damper arm on the right side that prevents the glove box from falling too freely. Gently flex the right side of the glove box inward to unhook this damper arm from its retainer. On the left side, there is typically a simple hinging tab. Once the right damper is free, the glove box can be lowered completely, often until it is hanging vertically, revealing the filter housing behind it.
3. ​Locate and Open the Filter Housing:​​ Directly behind where the glove box was, you will see a rectangular, black plastic cover, usually about 1 inch tall and 10-12 inches wide. It has a latch on one side (often the top or left side). Squeeze or press this latch and the cover will swing open like a door.
4. ​Remove the Old Filter:​​ Pull the old filter straight out. Take note of the airflow direction arrows printed on the frame of the old filter. This is critical for correct installation of the new one. Before proceeding, use your vacuum hose to gently clean any loose debris from the now-empty filter slot.
5. ​Insert the New Filter:​​ Ensure your new filter matches the old one in size and shape. Align the airflow arrows on the new filter. ​The arrows must point TOWARD the passenger compartment, or in the direction of airflow, which is typically DOWNWARDS or towards the rear of the vehicle.​​ Do not force it; it should slide in smoothly. If it doesn't, double-check the orientation.
6. ​Close the Housing and Reassemble:​​ Swing the plastic cover back into place until the latch clicks securely. Lift the glove box back into its original position, re-engaging the left hinge and then the right damper arm by flexing the side slightly. You should hear it click into place. Test that the glove box opens and closes smoothly. Restore your items to the glove box.

​Step-by-Step Replacement Guide for 2002-2012 Altima (Under Hood)​​

For older Altima models, the process takes place in the engine bay.

1. ​Prepare the Vehicle:​​ Park on a level surface, set the parking brake, and turn the ignition off. Open the hood and secure it with the prop rod.
2. ​Locate the Filter Housing:​​ On the passenger side, stand near the windshield wiper. Look against the firewall (the vertical metal wall separating the engine from the cabin) for a long, black plastic rectangular cover. It is situated directly below the windshield cowl and may have wiring or HVAC lines near it.
3. ​Open the Housing:​​ The cover is usually held by metal clips, plastic screws, or snap-fasteners. You may need a Phillips screwdriver to remove screws or simply use your fingers to unclip the fasteners. Carefully lift the cover off. Be mindful of any leaves or water debris that may fall into the housing when you open it.
4. ​Remove the Old Filter:​​ Pull the old filter straight up and out. Note its orientation. Use a vacuum to clean out the housing compartment thoroughly, as this area is prone to collecting leaves and pine needles.
5. ​Insert the New Filter:​​ Place the new filter into the housing, ensuring it sits flat and level. Observe any airflow arrows. For under-hood filters, the arrows typically point ​DOWN, indicating airflow downward into the HVAC system. Consult your owner's manual if the arrows are not clear. The filter frame should seat flush with the top of the housing.
6. ​Close the Housing:​​ Replace the plastic cover, ensuring it is properly aligned. Reinstall and tighten any screws or re-secure all clips firmly. A loose cover can allow unfiltered air and water to enter the system.

​Choosing the Right Replacement Filter​

Not all cabin air filters are created equal. You will encounter three main types:

1. ​Basic Particulate Filter:​​ The standard option. It effectively traps dust, pollen, and other airborne particles.
2. ​Activated Carbon Filter:​​ This is the recommended upgrade for most drivers. It contains a layer of activated charcoal, which not only traps particles but also absorbs odors, exhaust fumes, and certain gaseous pollutants, leading to noticeably fresher cabin air.
3. ​HEPA-Type Filter:​​ Some aftermarket brands offer HEPA-standard filters, which capture an extremely high percentage of ultrafine particles. Ensure it is designed for your specific vehicle model to avoid restricting airflow.

Always purchase from a reputable auto parts store or retailer. An improperly sized or overly restrictive filter can harm your HVAC system's performance.

​Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting​

• ​Ignoring Airflow Arrows:​​ Installing the filter backwards is the most common error. This reduces the filter's efficiency and can cause it to fail prematurely.
• ​Not Cleaning the Housing:​​ Failing to vacuum out debris allows contaminants to bypass the new filter and can promote mold growth.
• ​Forcing the Filter:​​ If the filter doesn't slide in easily, do not force it. Remove it and verify it is the correct part number and that it is oriented correctly. The frame can sometimes get caught on a lip inside the housing.
• ​Not Fully Sealing the Cover:​​ Whether inside or under the hood, an unlatched or loose cover renders the filter useless. Always ensure the cover is securely fastened.
• ​Difficulty with Glove Box Damper:​​ If the glove box won't lower, look for a second stop mechanism. Some models have a tab on the top inner edge of the glove box that must be pressed or rotated. Refer to your owner's manual for the specific release method for your year.

​When to Seek Professional Help​

While this is a designed DIY task, consider a professional if you encounter excessive resistance, broken plastic clips or latches during disassembly, or if you notice water ingress or a persistent musty smell even after filter replacement, which could indicate a deeper HVAC system issue.

​Conclusion: Breathe Easy in Your Altima​

Replacing the cabin air filter in your Nissan Altima is a quintessential example of simple, cost-effective car care. By investing 15 minutes and the cost of a quality filter, you ensure the air you and your passengers breathe is clean, your HVAC system operates at peak efficiency for both defrosting and cooling, and you avoid the musty odors associated with a neglected system. With this guide in hand, you have the knowledge to confidently perform this maintenance task on any modern Altima, keeping your cabin environment fresh and healthy for miles to come.