1
Open the glove box
The 2016–2020 Sorento keeps its cabin filter directly behind the glove box in a slide-out tray, and you will need the full swing of the box to reach it.
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2016–2020 Kia Sorento
2016-2020 Kia Sorento - Replace Cabin Air Filter
By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026
🔧 Easy
10–15 minutes
$20 DIY
1 views
Save $80 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $100
Quick answer: Replace Cabin Air Filter on a 2016–2020 Kia Sorento is rated Easy and takes about 10–15 minutes. You'll need 1 tool for this job, and parts cost about $20. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
Quick Video Tutorial
Parts You Need
Total Cost
$20.00
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabin Air Filter | AQ1255 | $20.00 |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
2
Unhook the damper arm on the right side
Slide it off its pivot and let it hang — this arm is what eases the glove box down instead of letting it flop. It is easy to forget on reassembly, so note where it hooks now.
3
Release the side stops and lower the box
Press both sides of the glove box inward to disengage the stops, then swing the box down on its lower hinges. If a stop resists, push closer to the top of the box rather than forcing the plastic outward.
4
Squeeze the tray tabs and pull the filter tray
Squeeze the tabs together and pull the tray straight toward you. The old filter rides in this tray — lift it out and look at the airflow arrows on its frame so you can match them.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I squeeze the Sorento tray tabs and pull the filter tray — I mark the flow direction with a paint pen first. I have seen the molded arrow on the new filter, and it is always tiny, so my paint mark is what I trust.
5
Fit the new filter into the tray
Make sure it sits flat in the tray with no bunched edges, then slide the tray back into the housing until the tabs click.
6
Swing the glove box back up
Lift the glove box and press both sides inward so the stops catch their slots. Close the box and open it once to confirm it moves smoothly and latches.
7
Reconnect the damper and test
Hook the damper arm back onto its right-side pivot — without it the glove box drops with a clunk every time you open it. Then start the car, run the fan at several speeds, and confirm strong airflow and no new rattles from the dash.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Forgetting to re-hook the damper arm — the glove box will slam down every time you open it
- • Pushing the tray back in without the filter seated flat in it
- • Installing the filter with its airflow arrows reversed
More Kia Sorento Repairs
2016-2020 Kia Sorento - Alternator Replacement
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2016-2020 Kia Sorento - Brake Pads
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2016-2020 Kia Sorento - Check Engine Light
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2016-2020 Kia Sorento - Engine Air Filter Replacement
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2016-2020 Kia Sorento - Jump Start
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2016-2020 Kia Sorento - Oil Change
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