Replacing the cabin filter on a Nissan Qashqai 2020: step-by-step guide with photos and tips

Important: in some modifications (for example, with the option Clean Air Package) the filter can be double - main and additional (fine cleaning). In this case, both will need to be replaced.

When to change the cabin filter: signs and regulations

Official regulations Nissan recommends replacing the cabin filter every 15,000 km or once a year - whichever comes first. However, these figures are relevant for ideal operating conditions: clean roads, moderate climate and lack of allergens. In reality, the frequency depends on several factors:

Alarm Signalsindicating the need for urgent replacement:

• 🌫️ Fogging of windows even with the air conditioner on, the filter is clogged and does not allow enough air to flow through.
• 👃 Persistent odor (mold, dampness or burning) when turning on the stove or air conditioner.
• 💨 Weak airflow at maximum fan speeds, the filter creates resistance to air flow.
• 🐭 The appearance of insects or rodents in air ducts (their remains are often removed along with the filter).

Which cabin filter to choose for Nissan Qashqai 2020?

There are more than 50 variants of cabin filters on the market for Qashqai J11, but not all of them are equally effective. Main selection criteria:

1. Filter type:
   • 🔹 Normal (dust): Only captures coarse dust and leaves. Cheap, but ineffective (article: 27277-JM000).
   • 🔹 Coal: Absorbs harmful gases, odors and small particles. Optimal for the city (article: 27277-JM00A).
   • 🔹 HEPA filter: Detains up to 99% of allergens and bacteria. Expensive, but indispensable for allergy sufferers (for example, Mann CU 29003).

Comparison of popular models:

Important: avoid cheap no-name filters (price below 300 rubles). They often have incorrect geometry, which is why they do not fit tightly to the box, allowing unfiltered air to pass through. They may also lack a carbon layer despite the markings.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cabin filter

To replace the filter in Nissan Qashqai 2020 no special tools are needed - just your hands and 5-10 minutes of time. Follow the instructions:

1. Preparation:

   Park the car on a level surface and turn off the ignition. Open the glove box (glove compartment) and empty it of its contents. If there are clips in the glove compartment (for example, for bottles), remove them.

2. Removing the glove compartment:

   Click on two latches on the sides of the glove compartment (they are located closer to the cabin) and carefully lower it down. In some trim levels, the glove box can be mounted on two plastic pistons - they need to be turned counterclockwise.

   ⚠️ Attention: Do not pull the glove compartment sharply - the backlight wires are connected to it (if there is one). Disconnect the connector by pressing the latch.

3. Filter access:

   Behind the glove compartment you will see black plastic box with lid. The cover is secured with two latches on top. Press them at the same time and pull the cover towards you.

   If the latches do not budge, check if there is any additional self-tapping screw (found in cars for the Japanese market). In this case, use a screwdriver Torx T20.

4. Removing the old filter:

   Carefully remove the filter by pulling on the bottom edge. Be prepared for the fact that garbage may spill out of the box - lay out a rag in advance.

   Inspect the old filter: if mold or signs of rodents are visible on it, treat the box with an antiseptic (For example, Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger).

5. Installing a new filter:

   Check the direction of the arrows on the filter housing - they should point down (in the direction of air movement). Insert the filter into the grooves until it clicks.

   Make sure the filter fits tightly: if there are gaps, it means you bought a non-original model with the wrong geometry.

6. Assembly:

   Close the box lid, return the glove compartment to its place and connect the backlight connector (if disconnected). Check the operation of the stove and air conditioner - the air flow should become noticeably stronger.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even such a simple procedure as replacing the cabin filter can turn into problems if you make mistakes. Here's what happens most often:

• 🔄 Installing the filter upside down: if the direction of the arrows is mixed up, the filter will not only be ineffective, but may beat even faster. Always check the labeling "Air Flow" or "Up".
• 🔧 Broken glove compartment latches: Many owners try to remove the glove compartment by force without pressing the side latches. As a result, the plastic guides break and the glove compartment begins to dangle.
• 🧹 Ignoring box cleaning: if you do not remove debris and dust from the filter housing, the new consumable will clog 2-3 times faster. Use a vacuum cleaner or damp cloth.
• 🔍 Buying the wrong size filter: Even if the article is the same, the geometry may differ. For example, filters for Qashqai 2014–2017 5 mm narrower than for the 2020 restyling.

How to avoid problems:

1. Before purchasing a filter compare his photo with the original (can be found on the website Nissan or in the catalog Exist.ru).
2. If the glove compartment latches are tight, lubricate them with silicone grease (For example, WD-40 Specialist).
3. After installing the filter turn on the fan to maximum and check for any extraneous noise (whistle, creaking).

⚠️ Attention: If, after replacing the filter, a burning smell appears in the cabin, immediately check whether a foreign object (for example, a piece of sealant) has entered the box. In some cases this may lead to stove fan overheating.

Is it possible to wash or clean the cabin filter instead of replacing it?

Many owners Nissan Qashqai trying to save money by washing the old filter instead of buying a new one. But this only works for some types of filters and has a number of limitations:

• 🚿 Conventional dust filters (without carbon layer) can be washed once warm water and soap if they are not very dirty. After drying (at least 24 hours!) their effectiveness will be restored by 60–70%.
• ❌ Carbon filters wash it's impossible — water destroys the carbon layer, and the filter stops absorbing odors.
• 🦠 Filters with antibacterial impregnation after washing they lose their properties.

How to properly rinse the filter (if you really need it):

1. Remove large debris with a vacuum cleaner.
2. Soak the filter in warm water with detergent (for example, Fairy) for 10–15 minutes.
3. Rinse carefully under a weak stream of water, without deforming the corrugations.
4. Dry in the sun or in a well-ventilated area (at least 24 hours).
5. Before installation, treat with an antiseptic (for example, Chlorhexidine).

However, remember: even after washing filter resource is reduced by 2–3 times. If you drive on dusty roads or suffer from allergies, it is better not to risk it and install a new consumable.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

1. Включите зажигание.
2. Нажмите и удерживайте кнопку AUTO 10 секунд.
3. Отпустите кнопку и выключите/включите зажигание.