Breathe easy, Tesla owner! Changing the air filter in your Model Y is a maintenance task you can absolutely tackle yourself, saving you both time and money. While it might seem a bit daunting at first, with the right guidance, you'll be enjoying fresh cabin air in no time. Let's get started!
Step 1: Prepare for the Fresh Air Revolution! ️
Alright, before we dive under the dashboard, let's make sure you're set up for success. This first step is all about gathering your tools and getting your Tesla ready.
Gather Your Arsenal ️
You won't need a whole garage full of specialized equipment, but a few basic tools will make this job a breeze:
New Cabin Air Filters: Your Model Y uses two cabin air filters. Ensure you have the correct ones for your specific Model Y year. Tesla recommends replacing them every two years (or annually in China). Some Model Y vehicles also have HEPA filters, which are located in the frunk and have a different replacement interval (every 3 years for HEPA filters).
T20 Torx Screwdriver: This is crucial for removing the filter cover screw. Some vehicles might have a T20/6mm hybrid fastener or even locking tabs instead of a screw.
Plastic Pry Tool (Trim Removal Tool): Highly recommended! These tools are designed to gently pry plastic panels without scratching or damaging your interior. You'll thank yourself for having one.
Flashlight or Headlamp: It can get a little dark under the dash, and a good light source will help you see what you're doing.
Clean Cloth or Shop Towels: For wiping away any dust or debris you might encounter.
Knee Pad or Cushion: Your knees will thank you! You'll be spending some time in the passenger footwell.
Prepare Your Tesla
Now, let's get your Model Y ready for the procedure:
Park on a Level Surface: This provides a stable and safe environment for you to work.
Turn Off HVAC: Ensure your climate control system is completely off on the touchscreen. You don't want air blowing around while you're working in there.
Move the Passenger Seat Back: Slide the passenger seat all the way back to give yourself maximum working space in the footwell.
Remove Floor Mat: Take out the passenger-side floor mat to get it out of the way.
Step 2: Accessing the Filter Housing – The Great Unveiling! ️♀️
This is where we start getting hands-on with your Model Y's interior. The air filters are located in the passenger-side front footwell, behind some trim panels.
Removing the Side Panel
This panel is located on the side of the center console, facing the passenger footwell.
Locate the Panel: Look for the vertical panel on the right-hand side of the center console, near the passenger's feet.
Gently Pry: Using your plastic pry tool, carefully insert it into the seam of the panel, usually starting from the top or bottom edge. Apply gentle, even pressure to release the clips. You might hear some popping sounds, which is normal as the clips disengage.
Set Aside: Once unclipped, set the panel aside in a safe place where it won't get scratched or stepped on.
Disconnecting Electrical Connectors (If Applicable)
Some Model Ys may have electrical connectors attached to components in the right-hand side front footwell cover.
Identify Connectors: Look for any wires or connectors that are still attached to the panels you've just unclipped or are about to remove.
Carefully Disconnect: Gently press the release tabs on the connectors and pull them apart. Do not force them.
Removing the Footwell Cover
This is the larger panel that covers the area where the filters are housed.
Locate the Screw/Tabs: Depending on your Model Y's manufacturing date, you'll either find a T20 screw (or T20/6mm hybrid fastener) securing the cabin filter cover or two locking tabs at the bottom of the cover.
Remove Screw or Release Tabs:
For screws: Use your T20 Torx screwdriver to remove the screw. Keep it in a safe place!
For tabs: Use your index finger and thumb to squeeze the two tabs at the bottom of the cabin filter cover.
Tilt and Remove: Once the screw is out or the tabs are released, tilt the cover outward and carefully remove it. Be mindful of any high voltage (HV) cables that might be attached; do not stretch, bend, or damage these orange cables. If they appear damaged, stop immediately and contact Tesla.
Step 3: Extracting the Old, Welcoming the New!
Now that you have access to the filter housing, it's time to swap out those old filters for fresh ones.
Removing the Old Filters
You'll find two cabin air filters stacked vertically.
Identify the Tabs: Each filter has a small tab. The upper filter's tab should be folded upward, and the lower filter's tab downward.
Pull Out Upper Filter: Holding the tab on the upper cabin filter, gently pull it out from the HVAC module. It might be a snug fit, so a little wiggling may be needed.
Pull Out Lower Filter: Holding the tab on the lower cabin filter, pull the lower filter upwards and then out from the HVAC module.
Inspect and Clean: Take a moment to look at your old filters – you'll likely be surprised at how much debris they've collected! Use a clean cloth or even a small vacuum to clean out any dust or leaves inside the filter housing before installing the new ones.
Installing the New Filters
This is a straightforward process, but pay attention to the airflow arrows!
Orient New Filters: Look for the airflow arrows on your new filters. It's critical that these arrows face towards the rear of the vehicle when installed. This ensures proper air circulation.
Insert Lower Filter: Carefully insert the lower cabin filter into the HVAC module and lower it into place.
Insert Upper Filter: Then, insert the upper cabin filter above it.
Fold Tabs Inward: Once both filters are in, fold their tabs inward so that the cabin filter cover can be reinstalled.
Step 4: Reassembly and Reset – The Grand Finale!
You're almost done! Now it's time to put everything back together and let your Tesla know it has fresh filters.
Reinstalling the Cabin Filter Cover
Engage Lower Tab (if applicable): If your vehicle has tabs, maneuver the top notch of the cabin filter cover into place, then secure the tabs at the bottom of the HVAC module.
Secure with Screw/Tabs: If your vehicle uses a screw, engage the lower cover tab then secure the T20 screw or T20/6mm hybrid fastener. Tighten the screw to a snug 1.2 Nm/0.89 ft-lbs (do not overtighten!).
Reconnect Electrical Connectors (If applicable): Reconnect any electrical connectors that you previously disconnected to the components in the right-hand side front footwell cover.
Reinstall Footwell Cover: Align the right side panel (the larger footwell cover) with its original position and gently press it into place until all the clips are fully secure. You should hear satisfying clicks.
Reinstall Side Panel: Reattach the smaller side panel to the center console by aligning the clips and pushing it firmly into place.
Replace Floor Mat: Put your floor mat back.
Move Seat Back: Adjust the front passenger seat back to your desired position.
Resetting the Maintenance Interval
This is an important step to ensure your Tesla's system accurately tracks your filter replacement schedule.
Navigate to Maintenance Summary: On your Tesla's touchscreen, go to Controls > Service > Maintenance.
Reset Cabin Air Filter: Locate the "Cabin Air Filter" entry and select the option to reset the maintenance interval. This will timestamp the replacement and reset the reminder for next time.
Congratulations! You've successfully changed your Tesla Model Y's cabin air filters! Enjoy the crisp, clean air in your vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How to know when to change Tesla Model Y air filter?
Tesla recommends changing your cabin air filters every two years. However, if you notice a decrease in air quality, persistent odors, or reduced airflow from your vents, it might be time for a replacement sooner.
How to distinguish between cabin air filter and HEPA filter in Tesla Model Y?
The cabin air filters (two of them) are located in the passenger footwell and filter the air circulating inside the cabin. The HEPA filter (often a larger, more robust filter with carbon layers) is part of the "Bioweapon Defense Mode" system found in some Model Ys, located in the frunk, and filters air entering the cabin from outside.
How to purchase genuine Tesla Model Y air filters?
You can purchase genuine Tesla Model Y air filters directly from the official Tesla Shop online or through a Tesla Service Center. There are also reputable aftermarket options available.
How to avoid damaging electrical cables during filter replacement?
Always be extremely careful when working around the orange-colored high voltage (HV) cables. Do NOT stretch, bend, or otherwise damage them. If you suspect any damage, discontinue the procedure immediately and contact Tesla.
How to clean the air filter housing before installing new filters?
Before inserting new filters, use a clean, dry cloth or a small vacuum cleaner to remove any accumulated dust, leaves, or debris from the filter housing. This ensures optimal performance of your new filters.
How to tell which way the new air filters should be inserted?
New air filters will have arrows printed on their sides. These arrows indicate the direction of airflow. For the Tesla Model Y cabin filters, the arrows should always point towards the rear of the vehicle.
How to handle stiff or stubborn trim panels when replacing the filter?
If a trim panel is stiff, try applying gentle, consistent pressure with your plastic pry tool. Some owners find that working in warmer conditions can make plastic components more pliable. Avoid excessive force to prevent breaking clips or damaging the trim.
How to reset the maintenance reminder on the Tesla touchscreen?
After replacing the filters, go to Controls > Service > Maintenance on your Tesla touchscreen and select the option to reset the "Cabin Air Filter" maintenance interval.
How to determine if my Tesla Model Y has a HEPA filter?
Not all Model Y vehicles come with the HEPA filter. If your vehicle has "Bioweapon Defense Mode," it's equipped with a HEPA filter. This is usually listed on your vehicle's features. The HEPA filter also has a different replacement procedure, typically located in the frunk.
How to find video guides for Tesla Model Y air filter replacement?
Many helpful video guides are available online, including on YouTube, that demonstrate the step-by-step process. Searching for "Tesla Model Y cabin air filter replacement" or "Tesla Model Y HEPA filter replacement" will yield numerous results.
