The cabin air filter in your 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee cleans the air that flows through your vents, defrost, and heating system

Your cabin air filter traps dust, pollen, and other particles before they reach the inside of your vehicle. Over time it clogs, which makes your air conditioning and heating work harder and reduces airflow to your windshield and cabin. Replacing it is one of the simplest maintenance tasks you can do yourself — it takes about 10 to 15 minutes and requires no special tools.

The 2015 Grand Cherokee has one cabin air filter located behind the glove box. You will need to remove the glove box to reach it, but the filter itself slides out once you have access. A replacement filter costs between $15 and $40 depending on the brand and where you buy it.

Key Takeaways

  • The cabin air filter sits behind the glove box and filters air going to your vents, defrost, and heating system.
  • You can replace it yourself in about 10 to 15 minutes by removing the glove box and sliding the old filter out.
  • Replacement filters for the 2015 Grand Cherokee cost $15 to $40 and are sold at auto parts stores, online retailers, and dealerships.
  • Most owners replace the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or once a year if you drive less frequently.

How to locate the cabin air filter

Open your glove box and look inside the right side. You will see a small rectangular compartment with a cover or frame. This compartment holds the cabin air filter. The filter itself is a flat, pleated rectangle about 8 inches wide and 6 inches tall.

If you are not sure whether you are looking at the right spot, check your owner's manual — it will have a diagram showing the exact location. The manual also lists the correct filter part number for your specific model year and engine.

Steps to replace the filter yourself

Start by opening the glove box fully and looking for the support straps or clips that hold it in place. On the 2015 Grand Cherokee, you will see two small clips on either side of the glove box opening. Push or pull these clips inward to release the glove box, then lower it down gently. You may need to disconnect a small light bulb if one is attached to the glove box.

Once the glove box is out of the way, you will see the filter compartment clearly. The filter slides out horizontally — pull it straight toward you. Note which direction the arrow on the filter frame is pointing, because the new filter must go in the same direction. Slide the new filter in, making sure it sits flush in the compartment. Then reinstall the glove box by pushing the clips back into place and closing it.

What filter to buy for your 2015 Grand Cherokee

The correct part number for most 2015 Grand Cherokee models is 68105186AA or 68105186AB, depending on your engine type. Check your owner's manual or call a Jeep dealership with your vehicle identification number (VIN) to confirm which one you need. The VIN is printed on your registration and on a sticker inside the driver's door jamb.

You can buy replacement filters at Autozone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts, Napa, Walmart, Amazon, and directly from a Jeep dealership. Dealership filters are usually the most expensive but are may provide to fit. Aftermarket filters from brands like Fram, Bosch, and Mann are less expensive and work just as well. Read customer reviews before ordering online to make sure the filter you choose fits the 2015 model year.

When to replace your cabin air filter

Most manufacturers recommend replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. If you drive in dusty conditions, tow a trailer, or live in an area with high pollen counts, you may need to replace it more often — every 6,000 to 10,000 miles. Check your filter every time you have your oil changed to see if it looks clogged.

Signs that your filter needs replacing include weak airflow from the vents, a musty smell when you turn on the air conditioning, or reduced defrost performance. If you notice any of these, pull out the filter and look at it. A clean filter is white or light gray. A dirty filter is dark gray or black and may have visible dust and debris stuck to it.

Cabin air filter versus engine air filter

Do not confuse the cabin air filter with the engine air filter. The cabin air filter cleans air that enters the passenger compartment. The engine air filter cleans air that goes into the engine for combustion. They are different parts in different locations, and they have different replacement schedules.

Your 2015 Grand Cherokee has both filters. The engine air filter is located under the hood in a black plastic box on the driver's side. It is larger than the cabin filter and is replaced less often — typically every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Your owner's manual will show you where both filters are and when to replace each one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to remove the glove box to replace the cabin air filter?

Yes, on the 2015 Grand Cherokee the filter compartment is behind the glove box. You must lower or remove the glove box to reach it. The process takes only a few minutes and requires no tools other than your hands.

Can I clean the cabin air filter instead of replacing it?

You can tap a lightly dusty filter against a hard surface to dislodge loose dust, which may restore some airflow temporarily. However, a pleated filter cannot be thoroughly cleaned without damaging it. Once a filter is visibly dirty, replacement is the best option.

What happens if I drive with a clogged cabin air filter?

Your air conditioning and heating will work harder and produce less airflow. Your windows may fog up more easily because the defrost system cannot push enough air. A very clogged filter can also strain your HVAC blower motor over time, though this is rare.

Is there a cabin air filter on all 2015 Grand Cherokee models?

Yes, all 2015 Grand Cherokee models come with a cabin air filter as standard equipment. However, always check your owner's manual to confirm the correct part number for your specific engine and trim level, as some variations exist.