How to Replace the Cabin Air Filter on Your Mercedes

The cabin air filter works like a “mask” for your car’s interior. If you don’t replace it regularly, it lowers air quality, causes bad smells, reduces airflow, and even damages your A/C system over time. Luckily, you don’t need a mechanic to replace it. You can follow a few clear steps and finish the job yourself. This way, you save money and keep your car in good shape. In this article, we show you how to replace the cabin air filter on Mercedes C-Class, E-Class, and GLC models.

Location: Behind the front passenger footwell panel
Tools Needed: T20 Torx screwdriver, trim removal tool

Step Instructions:

1. Open the front passenger door. As shown in Image 1, carefully pry off the footwell trim panel using a trim tool. Be gentle around the edges to avoid damaging the clips.

2. Lie down and locate the screw shown in Image 2. Use a T20 Torx screwdriver to remove the screw securing the lower trim panel.

3. Refer to Image 3. Gently pull down the footwell panel. Note that there are two connectors at the area shown in Image 4. Unplug them to make access easier.

4. You will now see the cabin filter cover (Image 5). Slide the cover to the right to open the filter housing.

5. As shown in Image 6, remove the old cabin filter by pulling it downward in the direction of the arrow. Be careful of dust falling out and take note of the filter’s orientation.

6. When inserting the new filter, make sure it is properly aligned and inserted into the slot marked in Image 9. Improper alignment will prevent the cover from closing correctly.

7. Reverse the removal steps: reconnect the plugs and reinstall the trim panel. The recirculation cabin filter replacement is now complete.

Tip: It is recommended to use a high-quality activated carbon filter, which effectively filters PM2.5 particles, pollen, and odors.

Location: Engine bay, near the windshield
Tools Required: No special tools needed

Step Instructions:

1. Open the hood. As shown in Image 10, locate the plastic cover near the windshield wiper area.

2. Image 11 shows two twist-lock fasteners on the cover. Turn them 90° clockwise and pull them up. The fasteners are attached to the cover.

3. Refer to Image 12. Unlock the two clips by gently prying them open by hand. Then lift the A/C fresh air intake panel upward.

4. Flip over the intake panel to reveal the external cabin filter as shown in Image 13. Simply remove the old filter and replace it with a new one.

5. Reinstall the intake panel, lock the clips, place the cover back in position, and tighten the fasteners. The external cabin filter replacement is now complete.

Note: The external (fresh air) cabin filter is designed to block outside dust, leaves, insects, and airborne pollutants.

Replace the cabin air filter every 6 months or after driving about 10,000 kilometers (6,000 miles). If you often drive in heavy traffic, polluted areas, or dusty roads, change the filter more often. This keeps the air clean and helps your A/C system work better for longer.

If you still notice an unpleasant odor after changing the filter, the problem likely comes from the evaporator or A/C ducts. These parts often hold mold or leftover smells. In this case, use an A/C system disinfectant or cleaner to fix the issue. Also, if the airflow drops sharply, a clogged filter probably blocks the air. Replacing the filter usually solves this and brings airflow back to normal.

For most vehicles, replacing the cabin filter is a relatively simple task. With a quality OEM or aftermarket filter and some basic tools, most car owners can follow a tutorial and perform the replacement themselves — saving time and money.

Replacing your cabin air filter makes your car more comfortable and also helps your A/C system last longer. If you own a Mercedes GLC, C-Class, or E-Class, you can easily do it yourself. Not only does it save money, but it also gives you a sense of achievement. Before you begin, make sure to save this guide for easy reference. If you have any questions along the way, feel free to contact our customer service team anytime.

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