2016–2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE
By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026
Save $125 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $150
Quick answer: Cabin Air Filter Easy Replace on a 2016–2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE is rated Easy and takes about 10–15 minutes. You'll need 1 tool for this job, and parts cost about $25. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabin Air Filter | A 166 830 02 18 | $25.00 |
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
Follow these steps carefully
Unlike most SUVs, the 2016–2019 GLE (W166) hides its main cabin filter OUTSIDE the cabin, under the wiper cowl at the back of the engine bay on the passenger side.
The cover is held by plastic clips, not bolts. Work your fingers under its front edge and release the clips one at a time, then lift the cover away and set it somewhere it will not get scratched.
Lift it out carefully and note the airflow arrow printed on its frame. Take a quick look at how much leaf litter and grit has collected around it — the cowl area doubles as a debris trap on the W166.
I lift out the old ML/GLE dust filter and I mark the airflow direction with a paint pen before it comes out — the arrow molded into the new one is always tiny. I have installed one backward, and the whistle told on me.
Wipe or vacuum the empty tray and the surrounding cowl channel before the new filter goes in.
Drop the new filter into the tray exactly as the old one sat, with its airflow arrow in the same orientation. It should lie flat with no curled corners. A warped or lifted edge lets unfiltered air stream straight into the HVAC intake.
Lower the air intake cover back into position and press along its length until every clip snaps home. A poorly seated cover whistles at highway speed and leaks water.
Most owners handle the cowl filter themselves and leave the interior one for a shop visit.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
2016–2019
2016–2019
2016–2019
2016–2019
2020–2024
2020–2024
