How to replace both cabin air filters on a Mercedes W205

The Mercedes W205 has two cabin air filters: one in the engine bay and one behind the glovebox. This guide shows you how to swap both so your vents blow clean air again. It suits C300, C43, C400, C450 and similar owners with basic hand tools.

C43 AMG Cabin Air Filter Replacement DIY (2015-2021 Mercedes W205 C400, C450, C300, C63), by FCP Euro on YouTube. 6 min 27 s.

6 chapters. Tap a step to jump to it.Chapters from the creator
Video length
6 min 27 s
Time to do it
30 minutes
Difficulty
Medium
Steps
9

What you need

Steps

  1. Park on a level surface and let the engine cool. Open the hood and locate the plastic cover at the base of the windshield on the passenger side.

  2. Move the wipers or cowl trim into the service position if needed so you can reach the filter housing without forcing the plastic.

  3. Release the clips or screws holding the exterior filter cover, then lift the cover off and set it aside.

  4. Pull out the old exterior filter, note which way it faces, and wipe any leaves or dust from the housing.

  5. Slide the new exterior filter in with the airflow arrow pointing the same way as the old one, then refit the cover and clips.

  6. Inside the car, open the glovebox and remove the screws or stop tabs so it can drop down out of the way.

  7. Take off the interior filter cover behind the glovebox and pull out the old filter.

  8. Fit the new interior filter in the correct orientation, refit the cover, then reattach the glovebox and its screws.

  9. Run the blower on high with the windows down for a minute to clear any loose dust, then check airflow from the vents.

Tips and common mistakes

Change both filters at the same time, since many owners skip the one behind the glovebox.

Replace the filters about every 30,000 miles, or sooner if you drive in dusty or polluted areas.

A musty smell or weak airflow usually means the filter is overdue.

Do not force plastic trim clips; cold plastic cracks easily, so work gently.

Questions

How often should I change the cabin air filter?

Around every 30,000 miles is typical. Dusty or polluted driving can shorten that interval.

Why does my car have two cabin filters?

The W205 uses an exterior filter in the engine bay plus an interior one behind the glovebox to keep the HVAC system cleaner.

Can I do this without special tools?

Yes, basic Torx and Phillips screwdrivers plus a trim tool are enough for most W205 models.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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