How to Change the Cabin Air Filter on a BMW X3


1. Locate the cabin air filter compartment, which is in the center of the under-hood area and right up against the firewall, just in front of the windshield. It is black and rectangular with plastic air vents on top.
2. Unscrew the thumb screw located in the front center of the plastic lid to the cabin air filter compartment. Once the screw is removed, press on the tabs on either side of the lid and lift it directly upward to remove it.
3. Look at the side of the filter, which sits loose just below the lid to the compartment. You should see an arrow printed on the side of the filter. Take note of the direction the arrow is pointing, as this is the direction of the air flow. You will need to install the new filter with the arrow pointing in the same direction.
4. Pull the old filter out, then slide the new filter in, noting the direction of the arrow.
5. Put the lid to the compartment back on and press it down. It should click audibly as each side locks into place. Replace the thumb screw.