Replace a Cabin Air Filter on a 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 | O’Reilly Auto Parts | O'Reilly Aut

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The cabin air filter in your 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 filters out dust, allergens, dirt, pollutants, and other contaminants from the outside air before they can enter your car's cabin. Cabin air filters help ensure that the air circulated by your A/C and heating system is as clean as possible.

Changing your RAV4’s cabin air filter can help improve the overall airflow of your A/C system for better air quality and A/C performance. Signs of a dirty cabin air filter include unpleasant odors coming from the vents, air conditioning issues, less cold air, or reduced airflow. To determine the best time to replace your RAV4's cabin air filter, refer to your owners manual for recommended replacement intervals. Enjoy cleaner air inside your vehicle by performing a cabin air filter replacement on your 2013-2018 Toyota RAV4 with our detailed instructions and video.

Tools & Materials List

Step-by-Step Instructions

Additional Resources

A pair of gloved hands removes the contents of a Toyota RAV4 glove compartment and disengages it.

Step 1: Prepare Your RAV4

Open the passenger side door and the glove box and remove its contents. Disengage the dampener on the right side of the glove box by pulling it straight out off the post.

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The RAV4's glove compartment is removed entirely in order to access the cabin air filter housing.

Step 2: Lower the Glove Box Assembly

Squeeze in on both sides of the glove box to disengage it and lower the whole assembly. Now you should be able to see the cabin air filter cover.

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In three images, the cabin air filter housing tray is located, and the old cabin air filter is removed.

Step 3: Remove Your Old Filter

Press in on the tab on the right-hand side of the cover to disengage and remove it. Slide the old filter out and clean any dust or debris out of the housing with a microfiber cloth. When you install your new filter, it should be installed with the air flow indicator pointing upward.

Do It Right: You may have noticed an up arrow on the filter cover and the filter itself, if it is a factory filter. Those up arrows indicate the orientation of the old filter and the cover.

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In three images, the glove compartment is put back in place and the compartments contents are put back in.

Step 4: Reinstall Your Glove Compartment

Reinstall the filter cover by putting the left side of the cover in place, then snapping the right side close so that the locking tab secures it. Lift the glove box assembly back up so it catches on either side to reengage it. Reattach the dampener on the side. Put any items you removed back in the glove box and close it.

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These step-by-step instructions explain how to remove and replace the cabin air filter on a 2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE, and will be similar to procedures for 2013, 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2018 RAV4 models. If you notice a very dirty air filter, or live in an environment with high levels of pollutants, dust or debris, it may be beneficial to replace your RAV4’s cabin air filter more frequently. Maintain optimal air flow inside your vehicle with clean, fresh air by installing a new cabin air filter in your Toyota RAV4 with help from O’Reilly Auto Parts. We carry the items you need to get the job done right, including replacement air filters for Toyotas, and our helpful How-To Hub has step-by-step instructions to help ensure you perform a complete repair.

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.

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