Replacing the cabin filter on Nissan Qashqai 2 (J11): instructions with photos and videos

Cabin filter in Nissan Qashqai second generation (J11, 2014–2021) is a consumable that many owners forget to change until they encounter foggy windows, an unpleasant odor, or poor air flow from the deflectors. The manufacturer recommends updating it every 15,000 km or once a year, but in Russian realities with dusty roads and frequent traffic jams, it is better to reduce the interval to 10,000 km. In this case, replacing the cabin filter with Qashqai 2 takes no more than 10 minutes and does not require special tools - just know where it is located and how to remove it correctly.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with photos and videos, articles of original and alternative filters (including carbon), as well as list of typical mistakes that beginners make when making their first replacement. We will figure out how the filters differ for versions with air conditioning and climate control, and why some owners Qashqai J11 encounter the problem of a “jammed” filter when trying to pull it out.

Where is the cabin filter located in the Nissan Qashqai 2?

Unlike the first generation Kashkaya, where the filter was located under the hood on the driver's side, in Qashqai J11 (2014–2021) he moved to the salon. Exact location:

• 📍 Under the glove compartment (glove box) on the passenger side.
• 🔧 Access to it opens after removing the plastic cover (secured with two latches).
• ⚠️ On versions with climate control the filter may be slightly deeper than on machines with conventional air conditioning.

To get to the filter, you do not need to disassemble the dashboard or remove the trim - just lie on your back on the passenger side and look up. The filter cover has a characteristic rectangular shape and markings AIR FILTER or UP (indicates installation direction). On some modifications Qashqai 2 The lid may be gray or black - this is normal.

If you have never changed the filter yourself, we recommend that you first look at its location in the diagram:

Modification Qashqai 2	Filter location	Access Features
1.2 DIG-T / 1.6 (without climate control)	Under the glove compartment, on the right	The lid has two latches, the filter can be removed downwards
1.5 dCi / 1.6 with climate control	Under the glove compartment, on the right	The lid may require a little force to open
2.0 (restyling 2017–2021)	Under the glove compartment, on the right	The filter is slightly longer and may need to be squeezed when removing it

⚠️ Attention: On some Qashqai J11 After 2019 release, the filter may be installed with a slight play. If it gets “stuck” when you remove it, do not pull it by force - first check that it is not catching on the plastic guides inside the case.

Which filters are suitable for Qashqai 2: originals and analogues

Original cabin filter for Nissan Qashqai J11 has an article number 27277-JD00A (regular dust) or 27277-JD00B (coal). However, their price at official dealers is often overpriced - from 1,200 to 1,800 rubles. Fortunately, there are worthy analogues on the market from trusted brands:

• 🔹 Mann Filter — CU 22011 (coal) or CU 22012 (dust). Price: 600–900 rub.
• 🔹 Bosch — 1 987 429 630 (coal). Price: 700–1,000 rub.
• 🔹 Filtron — K 1152 (coal) or K 1152A (dust). Price: 500–800 rub.
• 🔹 Mahle — LA 923 (coal). Price: 800–1,100 rub.

When choosing between dusty And coal filter consider:

• 🌿 Coal retains odors and harmful gases better, but clogs faster (it is recommended to change every 10,000 km).
• 🌫️ Dust is cheaper and lasts longer (up to 15,000 km), but copes worse with exhaust gases and odors.

If you often drive in traffic jams or in environmentally unfavorable areas, a carbon filter will be preferable. For rural areas or rare trips, you can limit yourself to dust.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cabin filter

To replace the filter with Nissan Qashqai 2 you will need:

• 🔧 New filter (check compatibility by article number).
• 📸 Flashlight or LED lamp (to illuminate the space under the glove compartment).
• 🧴 Wet wipes (to wipe the case from dust).

Sequence of actions:

1. Preparation: Place the car on a level surface and turn off the engine. It is recommended to open all doors for 5-10 minutes to ventilate the interior - this will reduce the amount of dust that gets into your face when removing the old filter.
2. Filter access: Lie on your back on the passenger side and look up. You will see a plastic cover with two latches. Press them at the same time and pull the cover down.
3. Removing the old filter: Carefully remove the filter by sliding it downwards. If it gets stuck, squeeze it slightly from the sides. Be prepared for debris to fall out - cover your face or use a mask.
4. Cleaning the case: Wipe the inside of the case with a damp cloth. If there is a lot of leaves or dust accumulated there, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle.
5. Installing a new filter: Check the direction of the arrows on the filter (must look down And on yourself). Insert it all the way, squeezing the sides slightly if necessary.
6. Assembly: Close the cover, making sure the latches are secure. Check the operation of the stove and air conditioner - the air should blow evenly, without any extraneous noise.

The arrows on the filter are pointing downwards and towards you|

The body is cleared of debris and dust|

The lid latches are not damaged|

The new filter is not deformed (no jams or cracks) -->

If after replacement you notice that the air from the deflectors is blowing weaker than before, check:

• 🔄 Correct installation of the filter (it may not be inserted all the way).
• 🌬️ Condition of the air ducts (sometimes after replacing the filter, blockages are found in the ventilation system).

⚠️ Attention: On some Qashqai J11 With a mileage of more than 100,000 km, the plastic latches of the filter cover may become brittle. Do not use excessive force when opening - if the latch breaks, the lid will have to be fixed with double-sided tape or replaced entirely (cover part number: 27278-JD000).

Typical mistakes when replacing the cabin filter

Even such a simple procedure as replacing the cabin filter may not go according to plan if some nuances are not taken into account. Here are the most common mistakes owners make Nissan Qashqai 2:

• 🔄 Incorrect filter direction. Arrows on the filter indicate the direction of air flow. If you install it backwards, the filtration efficiency will decrease by 30–40%, and the filter itself will clog faster.
• 🚫 Ignoring case cleaning. If you do not remove accumulated dirt from the housing, the new filter will clog 2-3 times faster.
• 💨 An attempt to "blow out" the old filter. Some owners try to save money by cleaning the filter with a vacuum cleaner or compressor. This is not only ineffective (microparticles still remain), but also dangerous - damaged fibers can get into the lungs.
• 🔧 Extraction force. If the filter “does not work”, do not pull it - check that it does not cling to the plastic guides inside the housing. On some Qashqai after 2018, the filter is secured with an additional plastic tab.

Another common problem is debris getting into air ducts when removing the filter carelessly. If after replacement you hear a rustling or crackling sound when the fan turns on, most likely a leaf or other foreign object has entered the system. In this case, you will have to remove the glove compartment and clean the air ducts.

What to do if the filter does not fit into place?

If the new filter does not want to fit into the groove, check:

1. Correct direction (arrows must point down).

2. Are there any deformations on the filter (sometimes the corners become wrinkled during transportation).

3. Is there something in the way inside the housing (for example, a piece of an old filter or foliage).

If the problem persists, try bending the edges of the filter slightly (no more than 5 mm).

When do you need to change the filter more often than once every 15,000 km?

Manufacturer's recommendations for cabin filter replacement interval (15,000 km or once a year) are designed for “ideal” operating conditions. In reality, there are factors that reduce the service life of the filter by 2-3 times:

• 🏙️ Driving in city traffic jams. In stagnant air, the concentration of harmful particles (PM2.5, soot, exhaust gases) is 5–7 times higher than on the highway.
• 🌳 Dusty roads or countryside. Sand and fine dirt quickly clog the filter, especially after rain.
• 🚗 Frequent use of air conditioning. A humid environment promotes the growth of bacteria on the filter, which leads to an unpleasant odor.
• 🏭 Industrial areas. The air contains chemical particles that the carbon filter absorbs faster than dust.

If you notice at least one of these signs, it's time to change the filter regardless of mileage:

• 🌫️ Fogging of glass even with the blower on.
• 👃 A musty or moldy smell appears when the stove is turned on.
• 💨 Weak air flow from the deflectors at maximum fan speed.
• 🤧 Increased frequency of allergic reactions in passengers.

To check the condition of the filter, it is not necessary to remove it - turn on the air recirculation and take a sniff. If after 5–10 minutes of operation a smell of dust or dampness appears, the filter is no longer able to cope with its task.

Video instruction: replacing the cabin filter on Qashqai 2

For those who perceive information better visually, we have selected proven video instructions with a detailed analysis of the process:

• 🎥 Official video from Nissan (in English, but with clear demonstration): link.
• 🎥 Russian-language review with nuances for the restyled version (2017–2021): link.
• 🎥 Replacing the filter on a Qashqai 2 with climate control (differences from the standard version): link.

Pay attention to the moments in the video:

• 🕒 Replacement time for experienced craftsmen takes 3-5 minutes, but don’t rush - it’s better to spend 10 minutes and do everything carefully.
• 🔧 Some videos show how to remove the glove compartment for convenience, but Qashqai J11 this is optional.
• ⚠️ If in the video the author uses a screwdriver to open the lid, do not repeat it - the latches on your machine may be fragile.

After watching the video, check the filter article number again - some videos show the installation of analogues that may not be suitable for your modification Qashqai 2.

What happens if you don't change the cabin filter?

Many owners Nissan Qashqai J11 They neglect replacing the cabin filter, considering it a “minor” consumable. However, the consequences of this approach can be serious:

• 🦠 Reproduction of bacteria and fungi. A damp, clogged filter becomes an ideal breeding ground for mold, which then spreads through the air ducts. This can cause allergies, asthma and other breathing problems.
• 🚗 Damage to the ventilation system. Debris from the filter can get into the stove fan, which will lead to its breakdown (repair cost - from 10,000 rubles).
• 🌡️ Deterioration of the air conditioner. A clogged filter reduces air flow, causing the air conditioner to work harder and may fail.
• 💰 Increased fuel consumption. When the air conditioner or heater is on, a clogged filter causes the engine to waste more energy turning the fan.

In practice, ignoring filter replacement Qashqai 2 leads to the following symptoms:

• 🌫️ Constant fogging of the glass, which does not go away even when the blower is on.
• 👃 An unpleasant smell in the cabin that does not disappear after airing.
• 💨 Whistling or noise when the fan operates at high speeds.

If you are already experiencing these problems, simply replacing the filter may not be enough. Will be required complete cleaning of the ventilation system using special antibacterial agents (for example, Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the cabin filter on Qashqai 2

Is it possible to drive without a cabin filter?

Technically yes, but it is highly discouraged. Without a filter, unfiltered air containing dust, soot and harmful gases will enter the cabin. In addition, debris can get into the stove fan and damage it. If the filter is very clogged and there is nothing to replace it with, it is better to temporarily install at least the cheapest analogue.

Which filter is better - carbon or regular?

A carbon filter is more effective at trapping harmful gases and odors, but it clogs faster and is more expensive. A regular dust filter is cheaper and lasts longer, but does a worse job of controlling exhaust gases. The choice depends on the operating conditions: coal is better for the city, dust is better for the highway.

Do I need to reset errors after replacing the filter?

No, replacing the cabin filter does not require resetting errors or rebooting the system. However, if the fan is unstable after replacement, check that the filter is installed correctly and that debris has not entered the air ducts.

Is it possible to wash the cabin filter?

No, there is no use in washing the filter. Once wet, its structure is destroyed and it no longer retains small particles. In addition, a wet filter becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. It is better to buy a new one - its price is not commensurate with the health risks.

Why does the cabin smell worse after replacing the filter?

This can happen for two reasons:

1. Bacteria had accumulated in the ventilation system, and the new filter temporarily increased the circulation of “stagnant” air. Solution: Turn on recirculation for 10 minutes at maximum airflow.
2. You installed a carbon filter, which began to absorb odors, but the filter housing itself was dirty. Solution: repeat the replacement, after cleaning the housing.