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Autopapyrus · Hyundai Tucson III (TL)
https://autopapyrus.com/guides/hyundai/tucson/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.

Hyundai Tucson III (TL): Cabin Air Filter Replacement

On the Tucson TL, the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box and does not depend on the engine (for example, the 1.6 T-GDI, 176 hp). Recommended interval: replace it once a year or every 10,000-15,000 km, and more often in dusty conditions and city driving. If the vents smell musty, airflow is weak, or the windows fog up, the filter is most likely clogged.

Difficulty: Easy Time: 10-15 minutes Steps: 10 Tools: None required (optionally a vacuum cleaner or brush to clean the housing)

Part

  • 🔩 Hyundai Tucson TL cabin air filter (OE or aftermarket such as Mann, Filtron, Bosch). A carbon (combination) filter is preferable
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

10 steps
  1. Turn off the engine and completely empty the glove box.
  2. Open the glove box and release its travel stops. There are stops on the side walls that keep the box from dropping all the way down. Carefully squeeze or flex the sides of the glove box inward so they clear the stops.
  3. Lower the glove box down and forward so that it hangs on its lower hinges. If the damper is in the way, unhook it from the glove box wall. You do not need to remove the glove box completely.
  4. Behind the glove box, find the rectangular plastic filter cover. Squeeze the clips on its sides (usually two) and remove the cover.
  5. Pull the old filter out of the housing. Note how it was positioned and find the airflow direction arrow (AIR FLOW) on the frame.
  6. Use a vacuum cleaner or a dry rag to remove leaves and dust from the housing, taking care not to let debris fall toward the blower fan.
  7. Insert the new filter. The arrow must point down, in the direction of airflow, just as it did on the old filter. The frame must sit flat, without any misalignment.
  8. Install the cover until the clips click into place.
  9. Put the glove box back: lift it and slightly squeeze the sides so the stops seat in their slots. Reconnect the damper if you disconnected it.
  10. Turn the heater blower fan to maximum and check the airflow and that there is no noise or whistling.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • Do not use excessive force on the plastic stops and clips: they are brittle, especially in cold weather. A filter installed with the wrong airflow direction, or one that does not seat tightly, lets dust bypass it.