The cabin air filter in a 2013 Subaru Impreza is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access it by lowering the glove box and removing a small access panel, then replace the rectangular filter that sits in a dedicated housing.
Location and accessibility
The filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side of the dash. To reach it, open the glove box and lower it by squeezing the sides or releasing the damper, then look for a rectangular access door or cover on the HVAC housing. Remove the cover to expose the cabin air filter.
Step-by-step replacement process
To help you follow the replacement steps in order, use the list below.
- Open the glove box and release the stops or squeeze the sides to drop the box down.
- Locate the rectangular access door or panel on the back of the glove box or the HVAC housing and remove the door or its screws/clips.
- Remove the old cabin air filter from the housing, noting the orientation of the filter (the arrows on the filter indicate the direction of airflow).
- Clean any dust or debris from the housing with a clean cloth or compressed air if available.
- Insert the new cabin air filter, ensuring the arrows point toward the direction of airflow into the HVAC system.
- Reinstall the housing cover and reassemble the glove box, making sure the damper or stops are properly reattached.
- Turn on the vehicle’s HVAC fan to verify air is flowing smoothly through the vents and there are no unusual noises.
Following these steps will restore proper filtration for the cabin environment in your 2013 Impreza.
Maintenance notes
Subaru generally recommends inspecting or replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles (roughly once a year for typical driving) or more often in dusty or polluted conditions. If you notice reduced airflow, musty odors, or increased pollen exposure, replace the filter sooner.
Summary
For a 2013 Subaru Impreza, the cabin air filter is tucked behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access it by lowering the glove box, removing the small access panel, and replacing the rectangular filter with arrows oriented toward the HVAC system. Regular replacement helps maintain air quality and HVAC performance.
What year to stay away from a Subaru Impreza?
Transmission Problems: Certain models of the Impreza, notably from 2012 to 2013 and in 2015, were prone to transmission failures. These problems ranged from gears shifting incorrectly to the car unexpectedly speeding up while in reverse or hesitating before lunging forward when the gas pedal was pressed.
Does a cabin air filter help with allergies?
Cabin air filters also help to reduce the amount of those allergens that can get into your vehicle. Pollen, dust and other allergens can build up in your filter during heavy pollen season, so you may need to change it sooner.
Does a dirty cabin filter affect AC?
Yes, a dirty cabin air filter can reduce the efficiency of your car's air conditioning system by restricting airflow, causing it to work harder and reducing its performance.
Where is the cabin air filter on a 2013 Subaru Impreza?
And clean out any debris inside install your new AQ114 49 filters into the housing with the arrow pointing. Up.