Replace Tesla Model 3 Cabin Air Filter DIY
Replace the two cabin air filters on your 2023 Tesla Model 3 in 15 to 20 minutes. Work from the passenger side. You remove the footwell cover, pull the old filters, slide in two new filters with arrows pointing to the rear, then reassemble. You save $100 to $200 compared to shop service. Change filters every 2 years or 25,000 miles to keep air clean and HVAC strong.
This job needs basic tools. Filters cost $20 to $50 for two. Most owners skip the dealer and do it themselves. The filters trap dust, pollen, and odors. Dirty ones cut airflow and strain the blower motor.
Tools and Parts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Two cabin air filters | OEM or quality aftermarket, $20-50 total |
| T20 Torx screwdriver | For filter housing screw |
| Plastic trim pry tool | For footwell cover clips |
| Optional | Flashlight, gloves, shop vacuum |
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Prep the car. Park on level ground. Turn off climate control. Slide passenger seat all the way back. Take out the floor mat.
-
Remove passenger footwell cover. Look under the glovebox. Pop the centers of 3 to 4 push clips with the trim tool. Pull clips out. Tug the cover down. Unplug two connectors for the light and speaker. Set cover aside.
-
Expose filter housing. Spot the narrow vertical panel on the right side of the footwell. Remove the T20 screw. Release the tab. Tighten to 1.2 Nm or 0.9 ft-lb on reinstall.
-
Pull old filters. Grab the pull-tab on the upper filter. Slide it out first. Lift the lower filter up and pull it out. Vacuum any debris from the housing.
-
Install new filters. Check airflow arrows on filters. Point arrows to the rear of the car. Drop lower filter in first. Slide upper filter above it. Tuck pull-tabs where you can reach them next time.
-
Refit housing cover. Seat the panel. Engage the tab. Install T20 screw to 1.2 Nm or 0.9 ft-lb.
-
Reinstall footwell cover. Plug in both electrical connectors. Push cover into place. Press clips until centers seat fully.
-
Test HVAC. Start the car. Run the fan on high. Check for rattles or weak flow. If issues arise, verify filter arrows point rearward.
Quick Tips
- Arrows must point to the rear for correct airflow.
- Always replace both filters together.
- Wear gloves. Old filters hold dust and allergens.
- Face pull-tabs toward you for easy next removal.
- Stuck clip? Rotate it 90 degrees, reset pin, retry.
- Note date and mileage after the job.
Owners report fresh air and quiet HVAC after this swap. Skip it too long and you breathe dirty cabin air. Tools stay cheap and reusable for other Model 3 tasks.
Sidekick tracks cabin filter maintenance and sends reminders for your next change.