There are two air filters in a 2017 Chevy Impala: the engine air filter in the engine bay and the cabin air filter behind the glove box on the passenger side.
This article explains where to locate both filters, how to access them, and how to replace them to keep the engine and the interior air clean.
Engine air filter location
The engine air filter sits in a rectangular black plastic housing in the engine bay. It is typically on the driver's side near the front of the engine with a large intake hose attached.
What follows are the steps to locate and replace the engine air filter:
- Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing — a rectangular black box connected to the intake hose.
- Release the locking clips (or remove screws) on the housing and lift the lid to access the filter.
- Remove the old filter, noting its orientation and checking for excessive dirt or damage.
- Install a new filter in the same orientation and reseal the housing by snapping the lid back into place and re-engaging the clips or screws.
Regularly inspecting and replacing the engine air filter can improve engine performance and efficiency, especially in dusty or harsh driving conditions.
Cabin air filter location
The cabin air filter is accessed from the passenger side, behind the glove box. You’ll need to open or drop the glove box to reach the filter housing, which is behind a removable panel.
Replacement steps for the cabin air filter:
- Open the glove box and release its stops to allow the box to drop down for access to the filter housing behind it (note any dampening arm or limiters).
- Remove the cabin air filter access panel or cover to reveal the filter.
- Take out the old filter and note the airflow direction indicated on the filter frame.
- Insert a new filter with the correct orientation, reseal the housing, and reclose the glove box.
After replacing the cabin filter, ensure the filter seats properly to prevent air leaks and verify that the blower operates smoothly across fan speeds.
Maintenance tips and timing
Typical replacement intervals are guidelines and can vary based on driving conditions. Check the owner's manual or GM maintenance schedule for exact recommendations. If you notice reduced airflow, unusual odors, or increased dust inside the cabin, inspect and replace the cabin filter sooner.
Summary
For a 2017 Chevy Impala, there are two air filters to know about: the engine air filter in the engine bay and the cabin air filter behind the glove box. Accessing them involves opening the engine bay for the engine filter and dropping the glove box for the cabin filter. Replacement intervals generally follow manufacturer guidelines, with the engine filter often around 30,000 miles and the cabin filter every 15,000–25,000 miles or sooner in dusty environments. Always refer to the owner’s manual for model-specific directions and safety tips.