The cabin air filter in a Kia K5 sits behind the glove box on the passenger side, inside the HVAC housing, and is accessed by lowering the glove box to reach a rectangular filter housing.
Across most model years of the current K5 generation (roughly 2019–2024), the procedure is similar: drop the glove box, locate the filter housing behind it, replace the filter, and then reassemble. If you can’t find the housing easily, consult the owner’s manual or check with a dealer for your exact trim year.
Location and access
Here’s where to look and how to begin the process.
Follow these steps to locate the filter housing and prepare for replacement:
- Open the glove box and gently squeeze the sides to release the stoppers, allowing the glove box to drop down or hinge down.
- Depending on the model year and trim, either let the glove box hang down or remove it completely from its hinges to gain clear access to the HVAC area.
- Look up into the area behind the glove box on the passenger side for the rectangular cabin air filter housing; the filter cover sits on the side of the HVAC box.
- Remove the filter housing cover by pressing the retaining tabs or removing any small screws, then pull out the old filter.
With the filter removed, you’re ready to install a new unit in the correct orientation and reseal the housing.
Replacing the cabin air filter
Use this sequence to install a new cabin air filter and reassemble the dash area.
Before you start the replacement steps:
- Check the new filter to confirm its orientation; the arrows on the filter should point toward the HVAC blower (into the car).
- Insert the new filter into the housing, sliding it in until it sits flat and fully seated.
- Reattach the filter housing cover, ensuring it clicks into place or is fastened securely with screws.
- Reposition the glove box by aligning it with the hinges and sides, then snap it back into place and reattach any damper or stops you may have removed.
- Close the glove box and run the HVAC system on a few fan speeds to verify proper airflow and that no debris is loose in the cabin.
The filter should now be properly seated and the glove box reassembled for normal operation.
Maintenance and tips
Helpful advice to keep the cabin air system in good shape and avoid odor or airflow issues.
- Check the cabin air filter at least once a year or every 12,000–15,000 miles (whichever comes first), and replace sooner if you drive in dusty or heavy-traffic conditions.
- Use the filter type recommended for your Kia K5 model year and trim; some versions offer standard or activated-carbon options for odor reduction.
- Keep the area around the filter housing clean to prevent debris from entering the HVAC system during replacement.
- Dispose of the old filter properly and replace it with a high-quality filter from a reputable brand or OEM-equivalent.
Regular replacement supports better airflow, reduces cabin odors, and helps the climate control work more efficiently.
Summary
In a Kia K5, the cabin air filter is located behind the passenger-side glove box inside the HVAC housing. Access is gained by lowering or removing the glove box, removing the filter housing cover, and swapping in a new filter with the correct orientation, followed by reassembly. With proper maintenance, the system stays cleaner and the interior air remains comfortable.