MB Medic Mercedes-Benz Repair Guides, Service, How To DIY
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In this article, you will learn how to change the cabin air filter (dust filter) on your 2000-2005 Mercedes-Benz S430, S350, S500, CL500, or CL600 W220. Changing the air filter keeps everyone in the car healthy, especially those who suffer from allergies or asthma.
The Purpose of the Cabin Air Filter is to clean the air from the outside environment. The cabin air filter eliminates:
- Pollen
- Dust Particles
- Pollutants
You should change the cabin air filter at least once a year. If you drive in heavy traffic, in an area with poor air quality, or if you drive very often, you should replace it more frequently. Â If the cabin air filter is not replaced frequently enough, it can become clogged and impact the efficiency of the AC system.
Parts Needed
Replacing the air filter is easy. You will need a new air filter and a few simple tools.
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Mercedes S-Class W220 cabin air filter
Part Number:Â 2108301018 |
Tools Required
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Short Philips Screwdriver |
Instructions on how to change the air filter on the Mercedes S-Class W220
One thing to know before the glove box comes out
On these cars the passenger airbag sits in the dash directly above the glove box, and its wiring runs through the space you are about to put your hands into. For a straight filter swap you are not touching it, so this is not a reason to put the job off. It is a reason to know what is in there.
Anything with a yellow connector is restraint system wiring. Do not unplug it, do not pry on it, and do not pull on a loom to get more room. If you do disturb one, plug it back in before you restore power, or the car will store a fault and the airbag light will stay on until a scanner clears it. If the job turns into more than a filter, so you end up reaching further behind the dash or disconnecting things to get access, turn the ignition off and disconnect the negative battery cable first and give the restraint system time to discharge. That wait is specific to the vehicle, so look it up for yours and err long rather than guessing.
STEP 1: Remove the Glove Box
This air filter is behind the glove box. Remove the glove box. The whole glove box assembly needs to come out. Don’t panic, it is very easy. There are four screws that you will need to remove. Once you remove the screws pull out the glove box. Disconnect the glove box light and the release cable, and you will be able to pull out the glove box.
STEP 2: Remove the Air Filter  from Behind the Glove BOX
Press the white locking tab upwards and pull out the air filter door. Pull out the air filters. Install the new air filters in reverse order. Reinstall the air filter (dust filter) door and make sure to lock the white tab.
Pull out the old air filter. If it has not been replaced for an extended period of time, you may notice a lot of leaves and dust in the cabin air filter housing. Use a vacuum to clean out the housing if necessary.
STEP 3: Install new Cabin Air Filter (Dust Filter)
Check the airflow arrow before you push anything in. Cabin filters are printed with an arrow showing the direction of airflow, and a filter fitted the wrong way round still fits, still closes the door, and still looks finished, which is exactly why this gets missed. Pleated and charcoal filters are not symmetrical, so backwards means less filtration and more restriction for the blower to fight. Note the arrow on the old filter as it comes out and match it, since that one was almost certainly correct. There are two filters side by side in this housing, and the easy mistake is getting one right and the other reversed, so check both before the door goes back on. Then press each filter firmly into the housing and make sure the dust filter door is closed and the white tab is locked.
Cabin Air Filter FAQ
What does a cabin air filter do?
The cabin air filter keeps the air that comes into the cabin clean. The Cabin air filter’s main purpose is to trap dust, pollen, and other airborne particles. The cabin air filter cleans the air in the cabin every time you have air blowing through the air vents.
Not sure if you need to change your cabin air filter?
While the recommended change interval can vary by model, you should change the cabin air filter at least once a year or every 20,000 miles. If you’re still not sure, set your fan to blow air at high speed and notice if you have any reduced airflow, noises coming from the blower fan, or an unpleasant smell. Any of these signs indicate the cabin air filter is overdue for replacement.
Replacing the cabin air filter is easy. You can perform it yourself without taking your car to an auto repair shop. Grab a replacement air filter and follow these instructions to change it in your car.
How often should I replace the cabin air filter in my Mercedes-Benz?
- Cabin Air filters should be replaced at least once a year or even more frequently if you commute in an urban city or drive more than the national average.
What are the benefits of changing the cabin air filter?
- It prevents allergens and dust from coming inside the car. It keeps the air that the driver and passengers breathe clean. It helps you stay healthy. It helps those with asthma or allergies.
What are the signs that you need the air filter replaced?
If the air filter has not been replaced for an extended period of time, you may notice:
- Reduction of airflow
- Noise from the blower fan if you turn the fan on high
How should a good cabin air filter look?
The cabin air filter should not be black and full of dust or debris. The filter should be clean. 
How does a bad air filter look?
When you inspect an air filter that has not been replaced for years, you may notice that the old filter has turned black. You may also notice leaves, twigs, insects, grime, and soot.
How much does it cost to replace the cabin air filter on a Mercedes-Benz S-Class?
It depends on whether you plan on changing the cabin air filter at the dealership or at an auto repair shop. Expect to pay between $60 and $120. If you replace the filter yourself, you will spend less than $30.
Applicable Models
| 2003-2012 Maybach 57 2003-2012 Maybach 62 2000-2006 Mercedes-Benz CL500 2001-2006 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG 2001-2006 Mercedes-Benz CL600 2005-2006 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG 1996-1999 Mercedes-Benz E300 1996-2002 Mercedes-Benz E320 1997 Mercedes-Benz E420 |
1998-2002 Mercedes-Benz E430 1999-2002 Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG 2006 Mercedes-Benz S350 2000-2006 Mercedes-Benz S430 2000-2006 Mercedes-Benz S500 2001-2006 Mercedes-Benz S55 AMG 2001-2005 Mercedes-Benz S600 2006 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG |
Before you buy parts, scan every control module, not just the engine. It shows the root fault behind the warning lights and tells you whether the problem is still active. See how to do a full health check.
