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Autopapyrus · Tesla Model 3 (1st Generation)
https://autopapyrus.com/guides/tesla/model-3/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.

Tesla Model 3 (1st Generation): Cabin Air Filter Replacement

The Model 3 cabin air filter is located in the front passenger footwell area and should be replaced every 2 years. A distinctive feature of this car is that two filters are stacked on top of each other and are replaced as a set. The procedure requires removing the lower panels of the center console.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 15-30 minutes Steps: 14 Tools: T20 Torx screwdriver, plastic trim removal tool, flashlight, torque wrench (optional)

Part

  • 🔩 Tesla 1107681-00-A or 1107681-00-C (set of two filters)

Step by step

14 steps
  1. Turn off the climate control on the touchscreen.
  2. Slide the front passenger seat all the way back and remove the floor mat.
  3. Use a plastic trim tool to carefully release the clips of the lower footwell cover on the passenger side.
  4. Disconnect the two electrical connectors from the removed panel (pull on the plastic connector housing, not on the wires).
  5. Remove the right side panel of the center console by releasing the retaining clips.
  6. Remove the T20 screw that secures the filter cover to the HVAC housing (depending on the build date, the fastener may be a hybrid T20/6 mm type, or there may be latches with no screw).
  7. Remove the filter module cover by pulling it toward you, taking care not to bend or strain the orange high-voltage cables.
  8. Pull out both filters by their plastic tabs: the top one first, then the bottom one.
  9. Install the new filters in reverse order: the bottom one first, then the top one. Make sure the airflow direction arrows on each filter point toward the rear of the vehicle (toward the trunk).
  10. Put the filter cover back in place, engaging the lower tab first.
  11. Tighten the T20 screw to 1.2 N·m (11 lb-in) (hand-tighten only, do not overtighten).
  12. Install the right console panel and the lower footwell panel, snapping in all the clips. Reconnect the two connectors.
  13. Put the floor mat and the seat back in their original positions.
  14. Reset the filter maintenance interval through the vehicle menu: Service > Reset Interval.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • Orange high-voltage cables run through the work area. It is strictly forbidden to stretch, bend, pinch, or damage these cables, as this can result in fatal injuries from high-voltage electric shock. Do not touch the orange wires or their insulation. If the HV cables are accidentally damaged, contact a certified Tesla service center immediately.