Where the cabin air filter sits and what it does

The cabin air filter in your 2013 Nissan Altima is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. It catches dust, pollen, mold spores, and exhaust particles before they enter the cabin through your heating and air conditioning system. Over time—usually every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or once a year if you drive less—it becomes clogged and stops working effectively.

A dirty cabin filter means your air conditioning has to work harder to push air through, your defroster takes longer to clear the windshield, and you're breathing air that hasn't been cleaned. If you notice musty smells when you turn on the heat or AC, or if the airflow feels weak, the filter is likely overdue for replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • The cabin air filter is behind the glove box on the passenger side and takes about 10 to 15 minutes to replace yourself.
  • You need only a new filter (part number 27891-3DA0A for the 2013 Altima) and possibly a Phillips screwdriver, depending on your glove box design.
  • Replacing it yourself costs $15 to $30 for the filter; a dealer or shop charges $40 to $80 in labor on top of the part.
  • A clogged filter reduces airflow, makes your AC work harder, and can allow odors and allergens into the cabin.

What you need to buy and have on hand

The correct replacement filter for a 2013 Nissan Altima is part number 27891-3DA0A. You can find this filter at any auto parts store, online retailers, or a Nissan dealer. Prices typically range from $15 to $30 depending on the brand and where you buy it. OEM (original equipment manufacturer) Nissan filters cost more but fit precisely; aftermarket filters from brands like Fram, Bosch, or Mann are cheaper and work just as well if they carry the same part number.

You will also need a Phillips screwdriver if your glove box has a screw-down latch, though many 2013 Altimas have a push-release design that requires no tools. Have a small flashlight or your phone's flashlight ready so you can see into the glove box compartment. A small vacuum or a damp cloth is useful for wiping out dust and debris from the filter housing before you install the new one.

How to remove the old filter step by step

Open the glove box fully and look for the release mechanism. On most 2013 Altimas, you will see a small latch or clip on either side of the glove box. Push or pull these inward to release the box from its hinges, then lower it gently. If your glove box has a screw at the bottom, remove it with your Phillips screwdriver first.

Once the glove box is out of the way, you will see the filter housing—a rectangular plastic box behind where the glove box was. Look for the filter cover, which usually has two small tabs or clips on the sides. Pinch or pull these tabs inward and slide the cover downward or outward, depending on your model's design. The old filter will come out with the cover or will be loose inside the housing. Note which direction the arrow on the filter frame is pointing; the new filter must go in the same way.

Inspect the filter housing for dust and debris. Use your vacuum or a damp cloth to wipe out the compartment. Do not use compressed air, as it can blow dust deeper into the ventilation system.

Installing the new filter and reassembling

Slide the new filter into the housing with the arrow pointing in the same direction as the old one pointed. The filter should fit snugly but not require force. If it does not slide in easily, check that the arrow is facing the correct way and that you are not trying to insert it upside down.

Once the filter is seated, slide the cover back into place and find the tabs or clips. You should hear or feel a click when they lock. Lift the glove box back up and align it with the hinges, then push it closed until it clicks into place. If there was a screw, replace it. Open and close the glove box a few times to make sure it moves freely and latches properly.

When to replace it and how to know it is dirty

Nissan recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles under normal driving conditions. If you live in a dusty climate, drive frequently on unpaved roads, or have pets that shed heavily, replace it every 10,000 miles or once a year. If you drive fewer than 10,000 miles per year, replace it annually anyway, because the filter can trap moisture and develop mold even if it is not physically clogged.

Signs that your filter needs replacement include weak airflow from the vents, musty or stale smells when you turn on the heat or AC, reduced defroster performance, and visible dust or debris visible through the filter when you open the glove box. Some newer vehicles have a cabin air filter warning light on the dashboard, but the 2013 Altima does not, so you have to monitor it yourself or check it during regular maintenance.

Why this matters for your car's health and your comfort

A clean cabin air filter keeps your air conditioning and heating system from working overtime. When the filter is clogged, the blower motor has to push harder to move air through it, which uses more electrical power and generates heat. Over time, this extra strain can shorten the life of the blower motor and the compressor. Replacing the filter is one of the cheapest preventive maintenance tasks you can do.

Beyond the mechanical side, a clean filter protects your health. If you or your passengers have allergies or asthma, a clogged filter means pollen, mold spores, and dust are entering the cabin unfiltered. In heavy traffic or on dusty roads, a dirty filter also allows exhaust particles and road dust to accumulate inside your car. Replacing it every year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles keeps the air you breathe cleaner and your ventilation system running efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a dirty cabin air filter?

Yes, but you should not. A clogged filter reduces airflow, makes your AC and heater less effective, and forces the blower motor to work harder. It will not damage the engine, but it will strain the ventilation system and reduce your comfort and air quality inside the cabin.

What is the difference between a cabin air filter and an engine air filter?

The cabin air filter cleans the air that enters the passenger compartment through the AC and heating system. The engine air filter cleans the air that goes into the engine for combustion. They are separate filters in different locations and have different replacement schedules. The 2013 Altima engine air filter is typically replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.

Do I really need an OEM Nissan filter, or will any filter with the same part number work?

Any filter with the correct part number (27891-3DA0A) will fit and work. Aftermarket filters from reputable brands like Fram, Bosch, or Mann are cheaper and perform well. OEM filters may have slightly tighter tolerances, but the difference in air quality is minimal. Choose based on price and availability unless you have a specific preference.

What if I cannot get the glove box open?

Check for a screw at the bottom that you may have missed. If the glove box still will not release, look for a small latch or clip hidden behind the edge where the box meets the dashboard. If you are uncomfortable forcing it, a mechanic can open it safely and replace the filter for $40 to $80 in labor.