Replace the Cabin Air Filter

The cabin (pollen) air filter on the Hyundai i30 Mk3 (PD, 2017–present) sits behind the glove box and takes a few minutes to change with no tools. A blocked filter weakens the heating and air-conditioning airflow and lets in smells, so most owners replace it once a year or at every service.

Where the Filter Is

It clips into a slot in the heater housing directly behind the glove box. You reach it by letting the glove box drop down past its normal stops — the filter then slides straight out towards you.

How to Replace the Cabin Filter

1. Empty the glove box and open it fully.
2. On each side of the glove box, release the stop so the box can swing down further. On most i30s you squeeze the sides inward (or unclip the small damper link on the right) to let it hang right down.
3. You’ll now see the rectangular filter cover. Press its tabs and remove it.
4. Slide out the old filter, noting the airflow arrow printed on its frame (it points downward, in the direction of airflow).
5. Fit the new filter with the arrow pointing the same way, refit the cover, and swing the glove box back up until both stops re-engage.

If the airflow from the vents has dropped noticeably or the windows mist up more than usual, a clogged filter is the usual cause. Change it more often if you drive on dusty or unsurfaced roads.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should the i30 cabin filter be changed?

Roughly once a year or every 15,000 km, and sooner in dusty conditions. It’s a cheap part and makes a clear difference to airflow and smell.

Which way does the filter face?

Follow the airflow arrow on the filter frame — it points downward on the i30. Fitting it the wrong way round reduces airflow.

Do I need any tools?

No. The glove box and filter cover are released by hand. You only need to take care not to force the glove box hinges.

For a stored climate or blower fault code, look it up on autodtcs.com.