The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side, and it can be replaced with basic tools in about 5–10 minutes.
Location and access
In the 2020 Encore, the cabin air (pollen) filter sits inside a rectangular housing behind the glove box. To reach it, you lower the glove box by releasing its stoppers or damper and open the access panel on the back of the glove box area.
Step-by-step replacement
Use these steps to replace the filter. Have the correct replacement filter ready, and make sure the arrows on the filter point toward the rear of the vehicle when installing.
- Park with the engine off and open the passenger-side glove box.
- Remove contents and gently press the sides of the glove box inward to release the stoppers, allowing the box to drop down.
- Detach the glove box damper if present, and locate the rectangular access panel on the back of the glove box housing.
- Open or remove the access panel to reveal the cabin air filter housing.
- Take out the old filter and note its orientation before disposing of it.
- Insert the new filter with the arrows pointing toward the rear of the car, ensuring it sits flat in the housing.
- Reattach the housing panel, lift the glove box back into place, and close it securely.
With the new filter installed, restore the glove box and run the HVAC briefly to seat the filter and clear any residual odor.
Maintenance tips
Replace the cabin air filter according to GM’s recommendations or at least once a year, and more often in dusty or high-traffic areas or if you notice reduced airflow or unusual smells from the vents.
Summary
For a 2020 Buick Encore, the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access it by lowering the glove box and removing a small access panel to reach the filter. The replacement process is quick and straightforward, taking only a few minutes with a proper replacement filter.
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.
How much does it cost to replace cabin air filter on Buick Encore?
The average cost for a Buick Encore Cabin Air Filter Replacement is between $86 and $111. Labor costs are estimated between $37 and $54 while parts are priced between $49 and $58. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What are three symptoms of a clogged cabin air filter?
3 Signs Your Cabin Filter is Clogged
- There's Little Flow. The cabin filter is, essentially, a component of the air conditioner structure in your car.
- Dust. Another sign is is that you're seeing more than the usual amount of dust and debris inside your car.
- Less Vehicle Power.
Where is the cabin air filter on a Buick Encore?
And now we're going to take our hands push in on. This. You're going to push in on these two sides. And when you do that it's going to release the glove box so you can drop it. Down.


