The engine air filter sits in a rectangular housing in the engine bay on the driver's side, while the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. These two filters serve different systems and have separate replacement tasks.
For the 2015 Ford Escape, understanding where each filter lives helps you perform routine maintenance, improve engine performance, and keep the interior air clean. This guide covers both locations, how to access them, and what you’ll need to replace them safely and effectively.
Engine air filter location
The engine air filter is housed in a rectangular plastic box at the front-left (driver’s) side of the engine bay. The cover is typically secured with clips (and sometimes screws or a small fastener), and the intake tube from the air box leads to the throttle body.
Steps to replace the engine air filter
Before you begin this list, gather the essentials and follow these steps to swap in a fresh filter.
- Park safely, turn off the engine, and open the hood. Locate the engine air filter housing on the driver’s side, near the front of the engine bay.
- Release the clips or fasteners holding the housing cover. If there are screws, use the appropriate screwdriver.
- Lift or remove the housing cover to access the old filter.
- Take out the old filter and inspect the housing for dust or debris. Wipe it clean if needed.
- Insert the new filter in the same orientation as the old one (airflow arrow should point toward the engine/throttle body).
- Re-seat the housing cover and re-close the clips or fasteners securely.
- Close the hood and start the engine to confirm everything is seated properly and there are no hissing sounds.
Replacing the engine air filter helps ensure optimal air flow to the engine and can improve performance and efficiency. Check your owner's manual for the recommended replacement interval, typically around every 30,000 miles under normal conditions, or sooner in dusty or harsh environments.
Cabin air filter location
The cabin air filter for the 2015 Escape is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access is gained by lowering the glove box and removing a small panel or cover that houses the filter. Some models use a simple drop-down glove box with stoppers; others require you to disengage a glove box damper or remove a panel to reach the filter.
Steps to replace the cabin air filter
Before you begin this list, prepare the space under the glove box and follow these steps to replace the cabin filter.
- With the glove box open, inspect how the lower stops or damper are attached and release them to allow the glove box to drop down fully.
- Look for a rectangular access panel behind the glove box and remove it to expose the cabin air filter cover.
- Unclip or unscrew the filter cover, then slide out the old cabin filter.
- Wipe away any accumulated dust inside the housing and verify the seal is clean.
- Insert the new cabin filter with the airflow arrows pointing in the direction of the HVAC airflow (into the dash).
- Replace the filter cover and reattach the access panel, then reassemble the glove box as it was configured.
Regular replacement of the cabin air filter helps maintain interior air quality and HVAC performance. In most conditions, plan for a cabin filter change every 15,000–25,000 miles or about once a year, but follow your manual or local driving conditions (dusty or urban environments may necessitate more frequent changes).
Additional notes and quick tips
– Always consult the owner’s manual for model-specific guidance and part numbers.
– If you notice reduced airflow from the HVAC, unusual odors, or the check engine light, inspect both filters and replace if dirty.
Summary
In a 2015 Ford Escape, the engine air filter sits in the engine bay’s driver-side air housing, while the cabin air filter is tucked behind the glove box on the passenger side. Replacing each filter follows distinct steps: access and remove the old filter, insert a new one with the correct airflow orientation, and secure all covers and housings. Adhering to recommended replacement intervals—about 30,000 miles for the engine and 15,000–25,000 miles for the cabin under typical conditions—helps maintain performance and air quality.