Cabin filter in Nissan Terrano - this is a small but critical detail on which not only the cleanliness of the air in the cabin depends, but also the health of the driver and passengers. Over time, the filter becomes clogged with dust, pollen, soot and even bacteria, turning from a protective barrier into a source of unpleasant odors and allergens. If you notice that the interior has become stuffy, the air conditioner is working less efficiently, and condensation appears on the windshield faster, it’s time to think about replacing it.
In this article we will figure out how to change the cabin filter to Nissan Terrano with your own hands, without contacting the service. The procedure takes no more than 20 minutes and does not require special skills - just a basic set of tools and a little patience. We will tell you which filter to choose (original or analogue), where it is located, how to dismantle it and install a new one, and also reveal typical mistakes that car owners make. If you've never done anything like this, don't worry: our step-by-step photos and videos will help even a beginner figure it out.
When and why to change the cabin filter on a Nissan Terrano
The manufacturer recommends replacing the cabin filter every 15,000–20,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. However, these figures are conditional: if you often drive on dusty roads, live in a metropolis with high levels of air pollution, or suffer from allergies, the replacement interval should be reduced to 10,000 km.
Signs that the filter needs replacing:
- 🚗 Reduced efficiency of the furnace or air conditioner — the air blows weaker, and the interior takes longer to warm up or cool down.
- 🌫️ Fogging of windows — even with the fan turned on, the condensation does not disappear.
- 👃 Unpleasant smell in the cabin, especially when the ventilation is turned on.
- 🤧 Increased allergic reactions in passengers (sneezing, itchy nose).
Important: Failure to replace the filter may result in heater or air conditioning fan failure due to increased load. In addition, a dirty filter becomes a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which spread throughout the cabin when the airflow is turned on.
- Every 10,000 km
- Every 15,000–20,000 km
- Once every 2 years
- Only when problems arise
- Never changed
Which cabin filter to choose for Nissan Terrano: original or analogue
On Nissan Terrano (depending on the year of manufacture) two types of filters are installed:
- 🔹 Regular (dusty) — only large particles (dust, soot) are retained.
- 🔹 Coal — additionally absorb harmful gases and unpleasant odors.
Original filters from Nissan have articles:
| Filter type | Article | Applicability |
|---|---|---|
| Regular | 27277-JD00A |
Terrano 2014–2020 |
| Coal | 27277-JD00B |
Terrano 2014–2020 |
| Regular | 27277-4M000 |
Terrano until 2014 |
If the original seems a little expensive (price from 1,200 to 2,500 rubles), you can consider high-quality analogues:
- 🔧 Mann (CU 22011) - coal, high quality, price ~1,000 rub.
- 🔧 Bosch (1 987 429 655) - a regular, reliable brand, price ~800 rubles.
- 🔧 Filtron (K 1152) - coal, good price/quality ratio (~900 rubles).
- 🔧 Sakura (CAC2835) - Japanese manufacturer, price ~700 rub.
Advice: When purchasing, check the compatibility of the filter with your modification Terrano (dorestyle or restyle). Carbon filters are preferable if you often sit in traffic jams or drive on dusty roads.
Before purchasing, measure your old filter - sometimes even original parts can vary in size depending on the batch. The length of the standard filter for Terrano is 230–240 mm, height — 200 mm, thickness — 20 mm.
Where is the cabin filter in Nissan Terrano: photo and location diagram
B Nissan Terrano The cabin filter is located behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. The exact location depends on the year of manufacture:
- 📍 Terrano until 2014 — the filter is located behind a plastic cover under the glove compartment. To get to it, you need to remove the glove compartment (it is attached to 4 plastic clips).
- 📍 Terrano 2014–2020 — the filter is hidden behind a decorative panel under the glove compartment. Access to it opens after removing the cover (fastening with 2 latches).
The photo below shows the location of the filter in the restyled version (2014+):
Photo of the filter location
The image shows a plastic cover with two latches on the sides. The filter is located behind it in a horizontal plastic housing. To remove it, pull the cover towards you, then pull out the old filter downward.
If you are not sure where exactly to look for the filter in your modification, pay attention to arrows on the body - they indicate the direction of installation (the air flow should go from top to bottom).
In some versions of Terrano, the filter can be installed vertically. If you can't see it behind the glove compartment, check the space under the steering wheel on the driver's side (rare, but found on early models).
Step-by-step instructions: how to change the cabin filter on a Nissan Terrano
To replace the filter you will need:
- 🔧 New cabin filter (matching the article number).
- 🔧 Screwdriver with a Phillips head (sometimes you need a flat one).
- 🔧 Flashlight (for illuminating hard-to-reach places).
- 🔧 Plastic puller or flat screwdriver for latches.
- 🔧 Gloves (optional, so as not to get your hands dirty).
Step 1. Preparation
Park the car on a level surface and turn off the engine. Open the glove compartment and remove all items from it. If your model has an adjustable glove compartment shelf, remove it (usually it is secured with plastic clips).
Step 2: Removing the filter cover
In restyled versions (2014+), pull the plastic cover located under the glove compartment towards you. It is held on by two latches on the sides. In pre-restyle you will have to remove the entire glove compartment:
- Unscrew the 4 screws with a Phillips screwdriver (2 on the bottom and 2 on the sides).
- Carefully pull the glove compartment towards you, releasing the plastic clips.
- Behind the glove compartment you will see the filter cover - remove it by pressing the latches.
☑️ Checklist before removing the filter
Step 3: Removing the old filter
Carefully pull out the old filter downwards (in some models - towards you). Be prepared for the fact that debris may spill out of it - it is better to lay it down with newspaper or a rag. Please note arrow direction on the filter frame - the new one must be installed in the same way.
Step 4: Install a new filter
Insert the new filter into the grooves, observing the direction of the air flow (the arrows should point down). Make sure it fits snugly and doesn't wobble. If the filter does not fit, check to see if you have mixed up the top and bottom.
Step 5. Assembly
Replace the filter cover (it should click into place). In pre-restyle, return the glove compartment, securing it with self-tapping screws. Check the operation of the stove or air conditioner - the air should blow stronger and the unpleasant odors should disappear.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to clean the old filter with a vacuum cleaner or water - this will not restore its properties. A wet filter can become a source of mold.
Typical mistakes when replacing the cabin filter on a Nissan Terrano
Even something as simple as replacing a filter can go wrong if you make one of these mistakes:
- 🔄 Incorrect filter orientation - if you confuse the top and bottom, the filtration efficiency will decrease by 30–40%. Always look at the arrows!
- 🔧 Damage to glove compartment latches — when removed roughly, the plastic clips break. Use a plastic puller.
- 🧹 Ignoring case cleaning — before installing a new filter, wipe the seat with a damp cloth to prevent debris from getting into the ventilation system.
- 🚫 Buying a filter that is the wrong size — even if the article is suitable, sometimes there are defective parts. Check dimensions before installation.
- 🔥 Forgetting to check the seal — if the rubber band on the filter is torn, unfiltered air will penetrate through the cracks.
Another common problem is incomplete closing of the filter cover. If it does not latch, the air will flow past the filter, negating all efforts. After installation, be sure to check that the cover is securely seated.
⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the filter, the stove begins to blow weaker, check to see if debris has gotten into the fan. Sometimes when removing the old filter, dust penetrates deeper into the system.
How to extend the life of the cabin filter on a Nissan Terrano
Although the filter is a consumable, its resource can be increased by following these tips:
- 🌿 Ventilate the interior regularly - open the windows for 5-10 minutes after the trip to reduce humidity (mold loves dampness).
- 🚿 Use an air conditioner cleaner 1–2 times a year (for example, Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger).
- 🚗 Park in the shade — in direct sunlight, the plastic of the filter housing cracks faster.
- 🛣️ Avoid driving off-road with the airflow on — dust clogs the filter many times faster.
If you often drive around the city where the air is polluted with exhaust gases, you can install prefilter (mesh made of padding polyester), which traps large particles and prolongs the life of the main filter. Such nets are sold in auto stores and cost ~300 rubles.
Useful lifehack: To check the condition of the filter without dismantling, turn on the air recirculation and sniff. If the smell has become more concentrated and unpleasant, the filter definitely needs to be replaced.
Video instruction: replacing the cabin filter on a Nissan Terrano
For clarity, we recommend watching a video with step-by-step replacement. The video below shows the process on the restyled version (2014–2020), but the principles are the same for all modifications:
Video link
Video from YouTube (example: “Replacing the Nissan Terrano cabin filter in 10 minutes”). The video demonstrates removing the cover, removing the old filter and installing a new one, with comments on possible difficulties.
If you have a pre-restyling version, pay attention to the moment you remove the glove compartment - in the 2014+ video it is attached differently. The main thing is to take your time and not break the plastic clips.
Tip for viewers: if the author uses a non-original filter in the video, compare its article number with the table above - sometimes the videos show analogues that may not be suitable for your modification.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to drive without a cabin filter?
Technically yes, but this will lead to rapid contamination of the air conditioner evaporator and fan. Without a filter, dust and debris will enter directly into the passengers' lungs, and a persistent musty odor will appear in the cabin. In addition, the risk of a stove or air conditioner breaking down increases by 2–3 times.
Which filter is better - carbon or regular?
A carbon filter is more effective at trapping harmful gases (such as traffic fumes) and unpleasant odors, but is more expensive and may slightly impair air flow due to its denser structure. A regular filter is cheaper and allows air to pass through better, but does not cope with gases. The choice depends on the operating conditions: for the city, coal is better, for the highway - regular.
What to do if the filter does not fit into the grooves?
Most likely, you mixed up the top and bottom (check the arrows) or bought the wrong size filter. Also, sometimes debris in the seat gets in the way - wipe it with a damp cloth. If the filter still won't fit, try bending it slightly at the edges (but don't overdo it to avoid tearing it).
Do I need to reset errors after replacing the filter?
No, in Nissan Terrano There is no cabin filter sensor, so no errors light up. However, if you notice that after replacing the stove is working worse, check that the filter is installed correctly and that debris has not gotten into the fan.
Is it possible to wash the cabin filter?
No, washing a filter (even a carbon one) will not restore its properties. Water destroys the structure of the material, and after drying, the filter loses up to 70% of its effectiveness. It is better to buy a new one - its price is not commensurate with the health risks.