There are two air filters in this vehicle: the engine air filter located in the engine bay (typically on the passenger side) and the cabin air filter located behind the glove box inside the cabin.
Engine air filter location
Overview
The engine air filter sits in a rectangular plastic housing in the engine bay, usually toward the front on the passenger side. The housing connects to a large intake hose and is secured with clips (and sometimes screws). Accessing the filter involves removing the housing cover and lifting out the old element.
Follow these steps to locate and replace the engine air filter:
- With the hood open and the engine cool, locate the large black rectangular air box in the passenger-side area of the engine bay.
- Release the clips or unscrew any fasteners holding the cover in place, then lift the cover off.
- Remove the old filter and inspect the inside of the housing for dirt or debris.
- Wipe the inside of the housing with a clean rag if needed to remove loose dust.
- Insert the new engine air filter in the same orientation as the old one, ensuring it seats evenly in the housing.
- Reposition the housing cover and secure it with the clips or screws.
- Reconnect any hoses or tubes and close the hood.
After installation, start the engine to confirm a smooth intake sound and confirm there are no air leaks around the housing.
Cabin air filter location
Overview
The cabin air filter (HVAC filter) is located behind the glove box on the passenger side, inside the HVAC housing. Accessing it requires lowering or removing the glove box to reach a rectangular filter door or panel.
Proceed with these steps to replace the cabin air filter:
- Open the glove box and clear it of contents. If your model has dampers or stoppers, release them so the box can swing down fully.
- Lower the glove box to expose the HVAC filter access panel behind it.
- Open the access panel to reveal the cabin filter.
- Remove the old cabin air filter and inspect the housing for debris.
- Install the new cabin air filter with the airflow arrows pointing toward the HVAC core (into the vehicle).
- Close the access panel, reattach the glove box damper if you removed it, and snap the glove box back into place.
- Close the glove box and ensure the HVAC system operates normally.
Replacing the cabin filter can improve interior air quality and HVAC performance, especially in dusty or polluted environments.
Summary
In a 2014 Nissan Pathfinder, there are two filters to check and replace as needed: the engine air filter in the engine bay (passenger-side) and the cabin air filter behind the glove box (passenger side). Each filter is accessible with basic tools and careful handling. Regular replacement according to the owner’s manual helps maintain engine efficiency and interior air quality.