How to change your cabin air filter on a SAAB 9-5

Introduction

Changing the cabin air filter in a SAAB 9-5 is a straightforward DIY task that can greatly improve air quality inside your vehicle. This tutorial will guide you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you have everything you need to complete the job efficiently and effectively.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before starting, ensure you have the following tools ready:

• 6mm socket
• T20 Torx bit
• Wire snips

These tools will help you access and remove various components of the cabin air filter.

Step 2: Access the Air Filter Housing

1. Locate the cover in the passenger side wheel well.
2. Remove the rivets by pushing in the center of each rivet.
3. You will now see the air filter housing.
4. Remove the four screws holding the housing in place.
5. Gently pull the kick panel down, unclipping the light as you do so.

Step 3: Remove the Glovebox

1. Remove the three screws located at the bottom of the glovebox.
2. Open the glovebox and take out the three mounting screws on the top.
3. Carefully slide the glovebox out of the dash. Avoid tugging too hard.
4. Disconnect the cooling hose and the glovebox light.
5. Place the glovebox in a safe location.

Step 4: Access the Cabin Air Filter

1. Cut the zip tie on the air filter cover.
2. Move any tubes and wiring out of the way.
3. The cabin air filter cover is secured by seven 6mm screws—remove all of them.
4. Take off the cover, being mindful that some debris might spill out.

Step 5: Remove the Old Filter

1. Carefully pull the old cabin air filter out, avoiding any debris from getting inside your car.
2. Vacuum any loose debris and clean the interior of the filter box.
3. Remove the old foam insert at the top of the housing, ensuring it is completely gone.

Step 6: Prepare and Install the New Filter

1. Prepare your new activated charcoal filter, which should come with new foam inserts.
2. Ensure the foam insert is cut to fit around the two pipes in the housing for an airtight seal.
3. Place the foam insert inside the housing first, ensuring a good seal around the pipes before inserting the filter.
4. Slide the new filter into the housing, ensuring it fits securely underneath the foam insert.

Step 7: Reassemble the Components

1. Replace the cabin air filter cover using the seven 6mm screws you removed earlier.
2. Reconnect the cooling duct and glovebox light, and zip tie them back onto the housing cover.
3. Reinstall the glovebox into the dash using the T20 Torx screws.
4. Plug in the two electrical connections for the light under the kick panel.
5. Slide the kick panel back onto the white plastic clip on the firewall and secure it with four screws.
6. Finally, place the carpeted cover over the filter housing, ensuring the clips fit into the mounting holes.

Conclusion

Changing the cabin air filter in your SAAB 9-5 is an essential maintenance task that enhances your driving comfort. By following these steps, you can ensure a clean airflow inside your vehicle. Regularly check and replace your cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as needed to maintain optimal air quality.