The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. You access it by lowering the glove box and removing a small rectangular housing cover to replace the filter.
Location and what to expect
In the 2012 Murano, the filter sits inside a small housing behind the glove box in the passenger-side dash. There is typically a rectangular access panel that you can open to reach the filter. The replacement filter may be a standard or activated-carbon type, depending on the trim and part chosen.
Replacement steps
Follow these steps to replace the cabin air filter in a 2012 Murano. The process is straightforward and usually takes about 5–10 minutes.
- Open the passenger-side glove box and remove its contents.
- Gently press inward on the sides of the glove box to release the stops and lower the box fully (you may need to disconnect the glove box damper if equipped).
- Locate the rectangular cabin air filter housing behind the glove box and remove the housing cover by unclipping or sliding it off.
- Take out the old filter and note the orientation of the filter so you install the new one with the correct airflow direction.
- Insert the new filter with the arrows pointing in the direction of airflow (toward the cabin) and reseat the housing cover securely.
- Raise and reattach the glove box (and damper, if removed) so it latches back into place.
After replacing the filter, start the vehicle and run the HVAC system on several settings to ensure strong airflow and no unusual noises. If the glove box feels loose, recheck the damper and latch.
Maintenance notes
General guidance suggests inspecting and replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000–15,000 miles or at least once a year, whichever comes first. If you notice reduced airflow, odors, or allergy symptoms, replace the filter sooner. Choose an activated-carbon option if odor control is important for your environment.
Tips and considerations
Keep a small flashlight handy to help see the housing and orientation when replacing the filter. If you want the exact part number, refer to the owner's manual or a parts retailer with your VIN. The basic access method described here applies to most 2009–2014 Murano models with the same cabin air filter layout.
Summary: For a 2012 Nissan Murano, the cabin air filter sits behind the passenger-side glove box. Access it by dropping the glove box, remove the filter cover, replace the filter with the correct airflow orientation, and reassemble. Regular replacement keeps the HVAC system functioning well and helps maintain cabin air quality.