How to replace the cabin filter on a 2019 Nissan Qashqai: a detailed guide with photos and videos

Cabin filter in Nissan Qashqai 2019 is not just a consumable, but a key element that affects the quality of air in the cabin, the operation of the air conditioning system and even the health of the driver. Many owners put off replacement until obvious signs of contamination appear: an unpleasant odor, poor air flow or fogging of the glass. However, the manufacturer recommends updating the filter every 15,000–20,000 km or once a year, depending on operating conditions.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions with photos, which will help you replace the cabin filter yourself, without resorting to service. We will figure out where the filter is located in Qashqai J11 (restyling 2019), how to remove it correctly, what type of filter to choose (carbon or regular), and also we will cut it hidden nuances that are not written about in standard manuals. For example, why a whistle may appear after replacement or how to avoid damage to the latches during dismantling.

Where is the cabin air filter located in the 2019 Nissan Qashqai?

Unlike many cars, where the filter is located under the hood or behind the glove compartment, in Nissan Qashqai 2019 (body J11, restyling) it is hidden in left side of the cabin under the dashboard. The exact location is behind the decorative cover near the clutch pedal (or to the left of the brake pedal in automatic versions).

To get to the filter, you do not need to disassemble half of the torpedo: just remove the plastic cover, which is secured with two latches. However, there is a catch: if you are not careful, you can break the clamps or damage the wiring of the light control unit. We will talk about this in detail in the section on dismantling.

• 📍 Location: under the dashboard, on the driver's side, to the left of the brake pedal.
• 🔧 Tools: not required (only hands and a flashlight for convenience).
• ⚠️ Caution: The wires of the lighting control unit run nearby - do not pull the cover with force!

The photo below shows the exact location of the filter cover (marked with a red circle). Please note: on some trim levels Qashqai For 2019, the cover can be black or gray - this does not affect the replacement process.

Which cabin filter to choose for Nissan Qashqai 2019?

The manufacturer installs on Qashqai J11 two types of cabin filters:

1. Normal (dust) - traps dust, pollen, soot. Original article: 27277-JM00A.
2. Coal - additionally absorbs harmful gases and unpleasant odors. Article: 27277-JM01A.

The cost of original filters varies from 800 to 1,500 rubles. However, you can save money by choosing high-quality analogues:

Brand	Article	Type	Price, rub.	Features
Mann Filter	CU 22011	Coal	1 200–1 400	High quality filtration, long service life
Bosch	1 987 429 660	Regular	600–800	Good price/quality ratio
Filtron	K 1152 A	Coal	900–1 100	Complete analogue of the original, suitable for allergy sufferers
SCT	SA 2011	Regular	400–500	Budget option, suitable for rare use

Which filter is better to choose? If you often drive around the city with traffic jams or on dusty roads, carbon filter will be the optimal solution. It not only traps small particles, but also neutralizes exhaust gases, asphalt and plastic odors. For rural areas or rare trips, a regular dust filter is sufficient.

Step-by-step instructions: how to replace the cabin filter with your own hands

The replacement process will take no more than 15 minutes if you follow the algorithm. The main thing is to take your time and handle the plastic latches carefully.

Turn off the ignition and make sure all electrical systems are turned off|

Move the driver's seat as far back as possible for comfort|

Prepare a new filter and flashlight|

Clean your hands from dirt so as not to clog the new filter -->

Step 1: Removing the decorative cover

1. Kneel down on the driver's side of the door and shine a flashlight under the dashboard.

2. Find the plastic filter cover (it is located to the left of the brake pedal, closer to the center console). There may be an inscription on it AIR FILTER or arrow.

3. Gently press two latches on the sides of the lid (they are marked in the photo below) and pull it towards you. If the cover does not budge, do not use force - check that all the latches are unlatched.

⚠️ Attention! The wiring harness for the lighting control unit runs next to the cover. If you pull the cover sharply, you can damage the connectors or break the wires. Move it smoothly, without jerking.

Step 2: Removing the Old Filter

After removing the cover, you will see the old filter located vertically. It can be secured with an additional latch or simply inserted into the grooves.

Grab the top of the filter and pull it down, rocking it slightly from side to side. If the filter is stuck, check if there are any adhesive tapes or fasteners on it (on some models Qashqai they meet).

Please note arrow direction on the side of the filter - it indicates the correct installation position (air flow should go from top to bottom). Remember or take a photo of this direction so as not to make a mistake when installing a new filter.

Step 3: Installing a New Filter

Before installing a new filter wipe the seat remove dust and debris with a dry cloth or vacuum cleaner. This will prevent dirt from entering the ventilation system.

Insert the new filter into the grooves, following the direction of the arrow (it should coincide with the old filter). Make sure the filter fits tightly without any gaps. If it is loose, check to see if you have mixed up the top and bottom.

Step 4: Reassembly

Replace the decorative cover by pressing it until the latches click into place. Check that the lid is seated smoothly and without distortion. If the latches do not lock, try moving the cover slightly left and right.

After replacement, turn on the airflow at maximum speed and check for any extraneous noise (whistle or squeak). If they appear, it means that the filter is installed incorrectly or the lid does not fit tightly.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even such a simple procedure as replacing the cabin filter can result in problems if some nuances are not taken into account. Here are the most common mistakes and ways to prevent them:

• 🔄 Wrong filter direction: If you mix up the top and bottom, the filtration efficiency will decrease by 30-40%. Always follow the arrow that says AIR FLOW.
• 🔊 Extraneous noise after replacement: A whistling or hum occurs if the filter is installed crookedly or the lid is not tightly closed. Double check the installation.
• 🔌 Wiring damage: When removing the cover, you can touch the connectors of the light control unit. Before work, turn off the ignition and proceed carefully.
• 🧹 Dirt in the ventilation system: If you do not clean the seat before installing a new filter, dust will enter the heater radiator. Use a vacuum cleaner.

Another typical problem is filter deformation during installation. Some owners try to bend it to fit it into the grooves, but this leads to tears in the material. If the filter does not fit, check to see if you have the wrong model (for example, trying to install a filter from Nissan X-Trail, which is similar in appearance but has different dimensions).

⚠️ Attention! If, after replacing the filter, a burning or plastic smell appears in the cabin, immediately check to see if a foreign object (for example, a filter wrapper or a tool) has entered the system. Turn on the blower at full power and inspect the air ducts.

When should you change the cabin filter more often?

The recommended replacement interval is 15,000 km or once a year, but in some cases the filter requires updating much earlier. Here are the signs it's time to act:

• 🌫️ Fogging of windows: If the windows quickly fog up even when the air conditioner is on, this is a signal that the filter is clogged.
• 👃 Unpleasant odor: A musty or moldy odor coming from the air ducts indicates a build-up of bacteria in the filter.
• 💨 Weak air flow: If the airflow is weak at maximum fan speed, the filter is most likely clogged.
• 🤧 Allergic reactions: Sneezing or an itchy nose when traveling can be caused by pollen passing through a worn filter.

Also operating conditions affect the service life of the filter:

Terms	Recommended replacement interval
Driving on dusty roads (dirt roads, construction sites)	Every 8,000–10,000 km
Frequent trips in traffic jams (metropolis)	Every 10,000–12,000 km
Rural use	Every 15,000–20,000 km
Humid climate (risk of mold)	Every 12,000 km or every 8 months

If you often drive with pets or smoke inside, the filter will also have to be changed more often - approximately every 10,000 km. In these cases it is recommended to use carbon filters, which do a better job of absorbing odors.

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

Many drivers neglect replacing the cabin filter, considering it a secondary element. However, the consequences can be serious:

• 🦠 Reproduction of bacteria: a damp, clogged filter becomes an ideal environment for mold and mildew to enter the driver's lungs.
• 🚗 Ventilation system failure: dust penetrates the heater core, which leads to clogging and expensive repairs.
• 🌡️ Deterioration of air conditioner performance: a clogged filter reduces cooling efficiency by 20–30%.
• 💰 Increased fuel consumption: When the air conditioner is turned on, the engine spends more energy pumping air through a clogged filter.

Moreover, in advanced cases dust and debris can get into the fan motor, which will lead to its failure. Fan replacement cost Nissan Qashqai starts from 15,000 rubles, while a new filter will cost 500–1,500 rubles.

Is it possible to clean the old filter instead of replacing it?

Theoretically yes, but it's ineffective. Vacuuming or blowing with compressed air will only remove surface dirt, while microparticles and bacteria will remain inside the fibers. In addition, the carbon layer (if any) is not restored. Such a “cleaned” filter will last no more than 2,000–3,000 km, after which it will clog again.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about replacing the cabin filter

Is it possible to replace the cabin filter on a Qashqai 2019 without removing the cover?

No, that's impossible. Attempts to pull the filter out without removing the cover can damage the mounting tabs or the filter itself.

Does the 2017 Nissan Qashqai filter fit the 2019 model?

Yes, the filters are interchangeable. The 2019 restyling did not affect the ventilation system, so the filter part numbers remained the same: 27277-JM00A (regular) and 27277-JM01A (coal).

Do I need to reset errors after replacing the filter?

No, in Nissan Qashqai The 2019 does not have a cabin air filter sensor, so there is no need to reset the error. However, if after replacement it lights up CHECK ENGINE, this is a coincidence - the problem lies elsewhere.

Is it possible to install a non-original filter?

Absolutely not. Filters with a “universal” cut or non-standard sizes will not provide a tight seal, and dust will enter the cabin through the cracks. Always choose filters that match the article numbers Nissan.

How to check that the filter is installed correctly?

After installation, turn on the airflow at maximum speed. If the air flow is uniform, without whistling or vibration, and there are no foreign odors, the filter is installed correctly. Also inspect the lid: it should fit snugly, without gaps.