Quick answer: Replace Cabin Air Filter on a 2021–2024 Tesla Model X is rated Moderate and takes about 1 hour. No tools are required for this job, and parts cost about $50. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Tesla Model X Cabin Air Filter |
104-1000-00-A |
$50.00 |
|
| Tesla Model X HEPA Cabin Air Filter Optional |
104-1000-00-B |
$150.00 |
|
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
1
Turn off climate control
Park the Model X, engage Park, and turn the climate system fully off on the touchscreen. Slide the passenger seat fully back and recline it. The 2021+ Model X uses TWO cabin filters behind the glovebox (part 1688910-00-C or equivalent) — buy the pair.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
Buy the pair — I mean it. I've opened Model X housings where the owner 'replaced the cabin filter' and found one fresh filter and one three-year-old horror show, because they didn't know there were two.
2
Move the passenger seat back
Kneel or sit in the passenger footwell facing the glovebox and remove the floor mat so it doesn't bunch under you. A headlamp helps — the housings sit deep and the footwell is dark. Keep track of small fasteners and rubber stoppers.
3
Pull down the footwell cover
Open the glovebox and release it so it drops down (detach the rubber stoppers/side stays — they pull off gently). Pull down the footwell cover panel to expose the HVAC area, disconnecting any footwell light connectors first. Set the panel aside where it won't scratch.
4
Release the filter door
Behind the glovebox liner are the two rectangular filter housings side by side. Release each housing's cover, noting how they latch. Shine a light in and note the old filters' airflow-arrow direction. Work gently around the wiring harnesses — don't yank or stretch them.
5
Slide out the old filter
Slide both old filters out level so trapped dust doesn't spill into the HVAC case, noting each arrow direction. Bag them immediately. Vacuum the empty housings — they collect a surprising amount of debris that will end up in the blower.
6
Install the new filter
Slide the two new filters in with the airflow arrows facing forward. Push each fully home so the frames seal with no gaps — don't bend the media. Refit both housing covers until they latch positively.
7
Lock the door and reinstall the cover
Refit the footwell cover (reconnect the footwell light first) until all clips engage, then rehang the glovebox. Turn the climate back on and run the fan at full speed — a whistle means a cover isn't sealed.
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 turn off the climate control system before starting the replacement process.
- • Installing the new filter with the airflow direction arrows facing the wrong way.
- • Not ensuring the cabin filter door is securely locked after installation.
