Where the cabin air filter sits and what it does

Your 2015 Nissan Altima's cabin air filter cleans the air that flows through your heating, cooling, and ventilation system before it reaches the inside of the car. Over time, it traps dust, pollen, mold spores, and other particles, which means it gets dirtier and restricts airflow. When that happens, your air conditioning and heat work harder and less effectively, and you may notice stale or musty smells inside the cabin.

In the 2015 Altima, the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. You do not need to remove the entire glove box — just drop it down or remove a few clips to access the filter housing. The whole job takes about 15 to 20 minutes and requires no special tools.

Key Takeaways

  • The cabin air filter in a 2015 Altima sits behind the glove box and should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.
  • You will need a replacement filter (Nissan part number 27891-3DA0A or an equivalent aftermarket filter) and a few minutes of time — no special tools required.
  • Drop the glove box down by releasing the clips on both sides, then slide the old filter out and the new one in.
  • A clogged cabin filter reduces airflow from your vents and can cause your air conditioning and heating to work less effectively.

When to replace your cabin air filter

Nissan recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles under normal driving conditions. If you drive in dusty, sandy, or heavily polluted areas, or if you have pets that shed inside the car, you may need to replace it more often — every 6,000 to 10,000 miles.

You can also check the filter yourself before the scheduled interval. If it looks dark, clogged with debris, or smells musty when you open the glove box, it is time to replace it. Some drivers notice reduced airflow from the vents or weak heating and cooling as a sign the filter needs changing.

What you need to buy

The original Nissan cabin air filter for the 2015 Altima is part number 27891-3DA0A. You can order this directly from a Nissan dealer or find it at auto parts retailers like AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA, or Advance Auto Parts. The filter typically costs between $20 and $35 depending on where you shop.

Aftermarket filters from brands like Bosch, Mann-Filter, and Fram also fit the 2015 Altima and are often less expensive. Make sure any filter you buy is labeled as compatible with the 2015 Nissan Altima to avoid ordering the wrong size. You do not need any special tools — just your hands and possibly a flashlight to see inside the glove box cavity.

How to remove the old filter

Start by opening the glove box and looking at the sides. You will see clips or tabs on both the left and right edges. Push or pull these clips inward to release the glove box door, then let it hang down. Some models have a stop strap that prevents the box from falling completely — that is normal and keeps you from dropping it.

Once the glove box is down, look up into the cavity. You will see a rectangular plastic housing with the filter inside. The housing has a cover or door that slides or clips in place. Open this cover by sliding it to the side or unclipping it, depending on your model year. The old filter will slide straight out — note which direction the arrow on the filter frame is pointing, as the new filter must go in the same direction.

How to install the new filter

Before you insert the new filter, check the arrow printed on its frame. This arrow shows the direction of airflow and must point toward the cabin (usually downward or toward the front of the car). Slide the new filter into the housing in the same orientation as the old one came out. It should fit snugly but not require force.

Once the filter is seated, close the housing cover by sliding it back into place or re-clipping it. Then push the glove box back up and re-engage the clips on both sides until you hear or feel them click. Open and close the glove box a few times to make sure it moves freely and closes completely. That is all — you are done.

Signs your cabin filter needs attention sooner

If your air conditioning or heating suddenly feels weak even though the system is running normally, a clogged cabin filter is often the culprit. You may also notice a musty or stale smell coming from the vents, especially if the car has been sitting in humid weather. Some drivers hear a slight whistling sound from the vents when the filter is very restricted.

If you have not replaced the filter since you bought the car, or if you do not know when it was last changed, it is worth checking now. Opening the glove box and peeking at the filter takes 30 seconds and tells you whether a replacement is overdue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with a dirty cabin air filter?

Yes, but your air conditioning and heating will not work as well, and you may smell stale air in the cabin. A very clogged filter can also put extra strain on your blower motor over time. Replacing it is inexpensive and restores full airflow.

Is the cabin air filter the same as the engine air filter?

No. The engine air filter cleans air going into the engine for combustion and is located under the hood. The cabin air filter cleans air for the passengers inside the car. Both should be replaced on schedule, but they are separate parts.

Do I need to go to a dealer to have this done?

No. The cabin air filter replacement is straightforward enough that most owners do it themselves in 15 to 20 minutes. If you prefer, any mechanic or quick-lube shop can do it for you, though you will pay labor costs on top of the filter price.

What if I put the new filter in backward?

The filter will still fit, but airflow will be restricted and the filter will clog faster. If you notice weak airflow after replacing it, remove the glove box again and check that the arrow on the filter frame points in the correct direction.