Cabin and engine air filter replacement on my 2021 CX-30?

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Replacing both the cabin air filter and the engine air filter on your 2021 Mazda CX-30 is an excellent DIY project that can save you money and is quite straightforward. At 30,000 miles, it's definitely time for both, as Mazda typically recommends replacement every 15,000-20,000 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions.

Here's how to tackle each:

1. Cabin Air Filter Replacement:

• Location: The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box.
• Tools Needed: Usually just your hands, maybe a small flathead screwdriver for prying if clips are stiff.
• Procedure:
  1. Empty the glove box contents.
  2. Open the glove box fully. You'll typically see two 'dampers' or 'stops' on the sides that prevent it from opening too far. Gently push in on the sides of the glove box to release these stops, allowing the glove box to swing down further.
  3. Once the glove box is fully down, you'll see a rectangular plastic cover (the filter housing door). There are usually clips on the sides of this door. Squeeze or unclip them to remove the cover.
  4. Pull out the old cabin air filter. Note the direction of the airflow arrow on the old filter.
  5. Insert the new filter, ensuring the airflow arrow points in the correct direction (usually downwards).
  6. Replace the housing cover, re-engage the glove box side stops, and close the glove box.
• Filter Type: Any quality aftermarket cabin air filter will work. Look for activated carbon filters for better odor reduction.

2. Engine Air Filter Replacement:

• Location: The engine air filter is located in the large black air filter box on top of or to the side of the engine.
• Tools Needed: Often just a flathead screwdriver or 10mm socket for hose clamps, but sometimes no tools are needed.
• Procedure:
  1. Locate the air filter box. It's usually a large black plastic box with an intake hose leading to it.
  2. Release the clips (typically 2-4 metal clips) around the perimeter of the air filter box cover. Some models might have a screw or two, or a hose clamp on the intake tube that needs loosening.
  3. Carefully lift the top half of the air filter box. You might need to gently maneuver it to clear any attached hoses or sensors.
  4. Remove the old, dirty engine air filter.
  5. Clean out any debris (leaves, bugs) from the bottom of the air filter box.
  6. Insert the new engine air filter, ensuring it sits flush in the housing.
  7. Replace the top half of the air filter box, ensuring all clips are securely fastened and any hoses/clamps are reconnected.
• Filter Type: Again, a quality aftermarket filter (e.g., Fram, K&N, Wix) is fine, or you can opt for an OEM Mazda filter.

When to See a Shop: If you're having trouble locating the filters, releasing clips, or if you notice any other issues under the hood (like loose hoses or damaged components), it's always best to have a professional take a look.