DIY: Subaru Legacy/Outback/Baja Cabin Filter Replacement

Video tutorial on how to replace the cabin filter in a third generation (1998-2006) Subaru Legacy, Outback, and Baja. The cabin filter is located at the passenger side behind the glove box. The filter is a two piece unit which installs in the ventilation system. Old filters can cause odours, reduce air flow, decrease cooling and heating, and also make the fan work harder. Not all vehicles are equipped with a cabin filter from factory, therefore your vehicle may or may not have one. If your vehicle does not have a filter installed, one can be installed to help cleanse the air entering the interior of the vehicle which helps reduce dust and allergy issues. This particular tutorial was done on a 2000 Subaru Outback.
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Tools/Supplies Needed:
-nylon trim tool
-phillips screwdriver
-standard/flat screwdriver
-10mm socket with ratchet
-new cabin filter
-vacuum cleaner
Procedure:
-first start by opening your glove compartment
-remove the items from your glove compartment
-pull in the sides on the glove compartment to disconnect the stop tabs from the dashboard housing
-remove the seven phillips screws using a screwdriver around the opening of the glove compartment
-remove a small expanding screw clip on the center console side trim located under the dashboard in front of the floor vent
-unclip the center console side trim, there will be three clips on the backside
-when removing that center console side trim, be careful with the tang that sticks on towards the back of the panel by the seat
-remove the phillips screw which was hidden behind the center console trim around the glove box opening
-remove the two bolts which can have a phillips screwdriver or 10mm socket and ratchet used on
-they are located towards the top of the glove compartment opening on the dashboard
-now drop out the glove compartment frame work from the dashboard
-disconnect the electrical connector for the glove compartment light which is located towards the door side
-the duct is now exposed which houses the cabin filter
-remove the four snap clips holding on the filter housing cap using a standard screwdriver
-now slide down the housing cap which will expose the cabin filter
-remove the old filter
-use a vacuum cleaner to suck up any debris inside the duct
-reinstall the new filter
-the filter unit is two pieces and slides together in a track
-install the top filter portion first, then install the bottom filter
-assembly in reverse of disassembly
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© 4DIYers 2013
All Rights Reserved
No part of this video or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted, without the prior written consent of the author.

[@cam5154]

I had all kinds of trouble getting to this filter. Thanks for the Matter of fact informative video!

[@4DIYers]

No problem!

[@andrewhartsky3148]

Very easy install! Took all of ten minutes after watching your video. Didn't even have to remove piece along console!! Very in expensive too! I work at a parts store and it was only $15

[@4DIYers]

Awesome to hear!

[@MrThebigd1973]

This looks time consuming, but I thank you for taking the time to make this DIY module. Cheers, David

[@ny2clvlnd22]

This video was extremely helpful and informative. Thanks so much for posting!!!

[@SamuelShaw1986]

Awesome video, I would start with the little tan screw for the side panel though, its a pain to get at once the compartment is down. Thanks!

[@jc-1337]

Awesome video, really helped me out. I picked up a 2004 Legacy Wagon 35th ani a couple of months ago, this video is right on the money since it's a bit different from replacing a 2004 Forester cabin air filter. For some reason the car didn't have a cabin filter when I got it. There were lots of leaves in there so I vacuumed it out and installed everything as the video showed.

[@autojock4472]

the instructions were very helpful good job I found out that I was missing a filter also again good job.

[@sandhillstudio1487]

Great, straightforward video. Thank you for making this!

[@4DIYers]

No problem and thank you!

[@pf02driver]

WOW this video was lots of help. There is no way I would have been able to do this on my own. Still was very hard. Straightforward but hard. I thought I was going to break the sides of the glovebox drawer trying to release it. I never got that one screw for the side panel to come out. It was plastic and spun forever. I just maneuvered the panel out of the way to get that last screw to drop the glovebox. The filter looked like it has never been replaced in 12 years, My son who inherited the car from my wife should be happy with better performance from the air con and heating. THANKS AGAIN for the video.

[@dracoirs]

Same with that plastic screw, wrenched the panel out of the way for that last black screw then yoinked that plastic one out. Tried to unscrew it from the anchor housing but the head popped off. Oh well, 23 years old from my 2001 outback sedan so oh well.... Man though there was a lot of debris and filthy filters, the air blows twice as hard and no mildew smell now

[@willswingwilly1950]

Thanks for sharing, you placed the video just in time, I took out everything on my own but needed some advice to actually regencies the filter, now I better order the 2 filter, or maybe get it in Canadian Tire

[@HotFries7256]

Well done video. Exactly what I needed.

[@mf111e]

Great video. First timer with the filters. Got 'er done!

[@stephenhill1089]

0:12 seconds in.. Already liked. Super rare to see DIY vids on '00 Outbacks. Thanks for the vid!

[@4DIYers]

Thank you, I appreciate the support. They're old videos, but I do have a few Subaru tutorials on my channel.

[@stephenhill1089]

@@4DIYers I managed to get my filter out and clean it in my sink with Woolite. Then I sprayed it with Lysol and got it back in. Smells great, but I think I'm still gonna try that foaming cleaner you spray up the water discharge hose.

[@4DIYers]

Your Subaru is the previous style before mine, they had the body style change in 1999. I know some Subaru did come with a filter from factory, others were an option and still had the door like mine, and others did have a spot but it needed to be cut out. I also had a 2000 Impreza and it did have the spot, yet the plastic did need to be cut out and I had to buy a door/gasket/screws from the dealer. Most likely it doesn't have one, but there are provisions for it.

[@lzmperu]

Why would someone dislike this video? we can nerver make everyone happy........ GREAT VIDEO. Thanks

[@4DIYers]

Well that is for someone who isn't familiar with the procedure and I'm estimating that slightly on the generous side too. From my personal experience, there is a fair amount of parts which need to be removed compared to other vehicles I've worked on before.

[@MrHerks]

Man, super helpful video! Really informative and helpful. Thanks a ton!

[@4DIYers]

Always happy to help and thank you for the feedback!

[@Dam_Big_Dawg]

Very clear instructions. Informative and direct. A little dark, but I would select good instruction for dim lighting. Thanks and I'll look at your other offerings...

[@suprbst]

Great tutorial video! I've done this a few times on my '04 WRX wagon, and it's a bit easier to get to the filter, with only 2 tabs you can push on to release the filter cover. Still, it kills me that Subaru didn't just put it in an easier-to-get-to location or use a number of dzus fasteners to make a once-a-year task as easy as changing out an intake air filter, which is probably not even changed as often as the cabin air filter.

[@brianbanks8264]

great video.....mine has never been replaced in 2005 Baja....now I know why.....I am surprised dealer didn't try to hit me up for it when they replaced the passenger side air bag on recall...it was right above the glove box...maybe didn't have to pull glove box cover etc but they are always trying to push sales...thanks

[@thomashood2876]

Very good tutorial. Unfortunately it is a very complicated process to replace a cabin filter. Thank you.

[@4DIYers]

Thank you and I totally agree. You'd think with an area that requires more maintenance, it would be much easier.

[@postalinVT]

Thanks for the effort. I'm going to see if my '05 Baja even has one, if it doesn't I hope they're still available.

[@4DIYers]

No problem, happy to help :)

[@iammetcash]

you're the man dude!

[@drwatson1234]

Awesome video. Helps me big time.

[@topcat82]

i can not believe all the steps, just to take out and replace a filter, what kind of engineers designed that feature.

[@4DIYers]

Haha, couldn't agree more! My current car only takes about 5 mins to replace. Subaru has an interesting design with their oil filter location too.

[@FulgenceR]

Thanks for this, guys. Wish I was a bit handier. I had trouble removing the plastic anchor, the socket got all smashed when I applied a screwdriver (So take it easy folks) and broke the tail of that side panel. Well... But all the rest help me a lot. It's not that difficult when you know what to do.

[@lucbourdon6713]

thanks 4DIYers ..see i been searching also a lot to and......like the video above say:3rd generation 1998 -2006...and thought the same as you that a 2nd generation...

[@4DIYers]

From what I've been able to find on a Google search, your 2nd generation Subaru Legacy actually didn't come with that option. Apparently that option started in 2000.

[@MrMediumJoe]

you are the man!

[@vinoe004]

straightforward and no BS... anyway what was the part number? cheers man.

[@fwang3023]

looks complicated at first but when I really did it, it turned out to be not too bad. Spent lot of effort grabing the dirty things out of the hole when suddenly I realized I can turn on the fan to blow the dirts out!!! Just don't put your fingers inside when the fan is on--I almost got hurt when I accidently touched a turning stuff (probably the fan lol) on the right

[@4DIYers]

Thank you for the feedback, don't forget to subscribe :)

[@yemayashimek2301]

you mentioned another filter that sometimes need replacing... where is that one located? Or is it the wire one to the left of these cabin filters? how do you know if that needs replacement? thank you for a great video.

[@4DIYers]

Thank you everyone for the compliments and support!!! Don't forget to like my video and subscribe to my channel. Also please follow me over on Facebook, Google+, Twitter, and Pinterest.

[@hillbobaggins]

I think replacing my steering rack was less complicated than this filter.

[@4DIYers]

Lol

[@hillbobaggins]

All joking set aside, I do appreciate the detailed break down/process clearly shown. Thanks!

[@4DIYers]

No problem, glad to help out :) Subaru definitely has some interesting designs though. Like the oil filter being easier to access from the top than bottom lol.

[@bobdole234bd]

I plan to test this vod soon enough. Looks good, and I feel confident in the process....but good grief, that is stupid complicated for a cabin air filter that should be done fairly regularly...

[@POPCANCOCK]

Is there a filter on the 98 2.5 legacy outback?

[@dodikpe]

I have taken a look at a cabin filter on my H6 yesterday and I spotted, that there is a free air duct around the thermostat sensor assembly. So my question is- Is this cabin filter doing his work well? For me- It seems look like little bit bad- engineered...

[@DrakeDorosh]

The dealership said my 1998 Subaru Outback Legacy doesn't have a filter. I wonder if he was correct or if the space was left empty without a filter as in this case.

[@MrMediumJoe]

Hey my fan is really loud for my ventilation, do you think it could be cause by a clogged filter, or should I look at getting another fan while I've got it taken apart?

[@ridingwiththereids]

My 97 outback doesn't come with one from the factory. That being said, napa doesn't offer one for that year. Can I install on from a 98 Outback?

[@4DIYers]

Should take around 2 hours tops. Trying to get the glove box unclipped is the hardest part.

[@flashwhite5603]

I don't suppose you have ever replaced the hvac actuator?

[@tonyking313]

Just replaced mine, no filter there. Used air hose and shop vac and dropped the blower motor as well as it was full of junk. Noticed there is a gap in front of the lower filter and was wondering if anyone knows if there was a gasket in there on either side of the filters? If there is not then this is the worst design.

[@b9f3awd]

Thanks for the instructions, very helpful. Still I have a problem in removing the plastic clip screw on the bottom back of the panel. Is there any trick to remove that like pulling and loosening it at the same time?

[@4DIYers]

b9f3awd Sometimes you need to pull back on the screw in order for the threads to grab on and unscrew.

[@b9f3awd]

Thanks for the comment. In my case, no thread but 4 pronged tab so I just pulled it out strong with panel.

[@justplanesense]

My 03 Subaru didn't have a filter either. I wonder why....

[@Brisky86]

I have seen products to clean the HVAC system and remove odors. Would it be a good idea to take a spray bottle with some rubbing alcohol to spray the inside and disinfect the system before putting the new filter in?

[@4DIYers]

+Brisky86 I have a video on that particular HVAC system cleaner you are talking about. I haven't used rubbing alcohol before, but I'm sure it would kill any odour and evaporate fast. Over time the vents can sometimes have mould or mildew form so it's good to take those extra steps to help kill it off.

[@lucbourdon6713]

Hello!I have a 1999 subaru legacy 2.5l ...limited 30th edition and no found of a how to change cabin air filter...alll video i see dont match and or dont my car ...my dash is all in one piece...please help or can someone give me advice please...or a site or video that would show me..thank you

[@_sc300]

What is that silver plate attached to the cabin filter door at 6:44 ? It gets pretty hot when the fans are on but I can’t seem to figure out what it’s called or it’s purpose

[@4DIYers]

It's quite common for that to heat up, it's called a blower motor resistor block. That is what controls the fan speed, if it fails, then typically your blower motor only works on high speed.

[@ShogunAutoworks]

Mine hasn't been cooling good. Turns out no filters and the evaporator was packed full of dust. So before I do stick one in I'm gonna remove the airbox and hose it out with a hose and wetvac. I have husky liners so floor will stay dry :-)

[@Loatsofdetail]

sweet we have a funky smell now i know what to change

[@Franklinwobbly]

I have a 1999 subaru legacy outback and am planning to change the cabin air filter using your video. The video seems to apply to the glove compartment in the 99, however I have been unable to find the filter that fits my model. I have been looking on ebay and other places and the 2 part cabin air filter is said to only fit 2000 and newer models. Any advice regarding when they changed the air filter design and whether or not the 1999 uses the same air filter as the 2000?

[@4DIYers]

The King of Orange I don't believe they did have a cabin filter in 1999 unfortunately. That was around the change year when they started to have that option available, some has the duct which would accept the filters, others didn't. The dealer might be able to give you some insight if you give them your VIN and they will be able to tell exactly.

[@renmamu]

EXCELENTE!

[@4DIYers]

Thank you :)

[@eianwahgener7623]

Anyone know where to get the replacement clips for the cabin filter box? one of mine was missing.

[@4DIYers]

+Eian Wahgener Try the dealer or eBay.

[@turbofiat]

I have a 2003 Baja with 73K miles on it I bought new. It was my understanding that the cabin filter was an option according to the accessories brochure from the dealership. By 2002, did all Subarus come with a cabin filter from the factory? The reason I ask is the blower velocity has been dropping off over the years so I suspect mine came with filters from the factory. This doesn't sound too hard but would hate to spend 2 hours taking half the dashboard apart only to find no filter.

[@4DIYers]

James Seabolt Yes Subaru did make it a factory option afterwards. If you do find the velocity is dropping, then most likely it's the filter becoming plugged up. Even if there is not filter, debris can still collect in that location as well, which would need to be cleaned eventually.

[@djtito021]

You know how to get the filter Subaru Legacy 1997? thanks

[@4DIYers]

+hector jara I don't believe the 1997 was available with a cabin filter.

[@tigergreg8]

I got to 3 min's and 30 seconds and figured, FORGET IT. What a pain in the A&& just for a cabin filter.

[@drwatson1234]

The procedure is different with later cars.

[@mrbryguy5831]

How would I change out the cabin filter on a 2012 Legacy anyone??? Give me a link or advise please please PLEASEEE!!!

[@4DIYers]

brian gill Instructions can be found here ww2.justanswer.com/uploads/joecamel90/2010-11-24_133434_box.pdf

[@mrbryguy5831]

4DIYers Thanks a bunch man!

[@actbuckwalter]

Is it at all possible to do this without removing the glove box?

[@4DIYers]

Unfortunately no. Don't forget to subscribe!

[@actbuckwalter]

Well thank you for the video it really help a lot!

[@Arturs.B]

I also didn't had filter in there on 99 outback. Maybe air is so clean in Japan, so they don't install cabin filters. LoL.

[@toddwilliams8911]

At least you don’t have to remove the engine and transmission.

[@4DIYers]

Lol, don't give them any ideas!

[@MegaAnimeStation]

I tried to do it without removing the box completely and broke some shit. sooo pissed off right now. should have watched this video first. 2009 legacy gt

[@charlesmurray1220]

You're not telling us why you are replacing filter. What problem was being caused by old or missing filter.

[@4DIYers]

It's basic maintenance required on any vehicle equipped with a cabin filter. All vehicles have certain mileage intervals for replacements, a dirty filter can cause the heater or ac to work harder, the air flow won't be as efficient, and will cause odours. No cabin filter means that there is no air being filtered into the vehicles cabin. This will increase allergies and dust. Don't forget to subscribe!

[@charlesmurray1220]

Got it! Thanks.

[@Iamth3bigJ]

2 hours to change a friggin air filter. Holy SHITE

[@stuart7515]

It would be much easier to see if the Subscribe Here button wasn't right in the middle of the picture...

[@4DIYers]

+Stuart Currently I am working very hard trying to promote my channel. But if you would like to close that box, if you hover your cursor over it, there will be a little "x" in the corner which you can click and that will remove the box.

[@stuart7515]

+4DIYers No! It's a good channel, and it is helpful. If I were more photogenic I would start my own channel showing a ground-up restoration of my Volkswagen Beetle, and my Rover P6B. I simply meant it would have been easier with the Subscribe button to one side.

[@jgdmlw]

Good Lord. you have to dismantle half the car.

[@CallahanKristen]

Visibility of where you are, just not happening.

[@4DIYers]

Behind the camera ;)

[@ShogunAutoworks]

Because filters wont help if your evaporator is already full of crap

[@sli-fox]

WTF Subaru?!

[@4DIYers]

Lol, check out my Volvo C30 cabin filter replacement, even worse.