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Autopapyrus · BMW X3 (G01, 3rd generation)
https://autopapyrus.com/guides/bmw/x3/cabin-air-filter-replacement/
Compiled automatically from service literature and owner experience. Specs are for the typical configuration — check them against your exact car before you start.

BMW X3 (G01, 3rd generation): Cabin Air Filter Replacement

The cabin air filter on the G01 does not depend on the engine, so the procedure for the B47 diesel is the same as for the gasoline versions. The CBS interval is about 2 years or 30,000 km. Replace it more often if you drive in the city or on dusty roads. The filter consists of two halves, and both must be replaced at the same time.

Difficulty: Easy Time: 15-30 minutes Steps: 9 Tools: None needed, or a Phillips screwdriver and plastic trim removal tools (depends on access, see steps)

Part

  • 🔩 Cabin air filter (set of two elements) for the X3 G01, preferably with an activated carbon layer. OE parts are more expensive. Aftermarket options are made by Mann, Mahle and Bosch. Choose by VIN, because the G01 has different climate control equipment variants
There's a full repair manual for this car Every system, wiring diagrams and torque specs — not just this job. Haynes AutoFix (online) and 2 more. See manuals →

Step by step

9 steps
  1. Shut off the engine, switch off the ignition and the climate control. Open the hood.
  2. Locate the filter housing. On the G01 it is near the climate system's air intake. This is the area at the base of the windshield on the passenger side, under the plastic cowl cover. If there is no access there, the filter is located behind the glove box. In that case, open the glove box fully and remove its side stops and the lower trim panel.
  3. Remove the seal along the edge of the cover and then the cowl cover itself. It is held by plastic clips and retainers, so pry it up carefully and do not pull it with force. If the washer hoses are in the way, disconnect them from their holders, but do not tear them off.
  4. Unlatch the filter housing cover. There are usually two latches, sometimes one screw.
  5. Pull out the two old elements and note how they were installed. The arrow on the frame shows the direction of airflow. It usually points down or toward the cabin.
  6. Remove leaves and debris from the housing with a vacuum cleaner or a dry cloth. Do not pour water into the housing and do not use cleaning liquids.
  7. Insert the new elements according to the airflow direction arrows. The frames must sit flat, without skewing, otherwise air will bypass the filter.
  8. Close the housing cover, install the seal and the cowl cover onto all clips. Put the washer hoses back into their holders. If you removed the glove box, reassemble it in reverse order.
  9. Switch on the ignition and check that the blower works at all speeds and that there is no unusual noise or whistling. Reset the cabin filter service interval through the onboard computer menu (service data menu, "Microfilter" item).

Common mistakes and warnings

  • Do not install filters without a carbon layer if you drive in the city: they trap odors and exhaust fumes less effectively. Do not break the plastic clips of the cover. They are brittle, especially in the cold, so at low temperatures it is better to work in a warm garage. If the filter is heavily clogged, airflow has noticeably weakened or the windows fog up, also check the drain and the intake grille for leaves.