Daewoo Matiz cabin filter: where is it located, how to replace and which one to choose

Owners Daewoo Matiz Often faced with the problem of finding a cabin filter - this small but important element is hidden so well that even experienced car owners spend time finding it. Meanwhile, a dirty filter causes fogged windows, unpleasant odors in the cabin and poor performance of the stove. In this article we will not only show exact location of the cabin filter in Matiz all generations (including restyled versions), but we will also analyze in detail the replacement process, the choice of analogues and signs indicating the need for maintenance.

Feature Daewoo Matiz — compactness, which dictates its own layout rules. There's no traditional location under the glove compartment like most cars, so the filter is tucked away in a less obvious location. If you've never replaced it yourself, be prepared for the fact that access to it will require removing several plastic panels. But don’t be alarmed: with the right approach, the whole procedure will take no more than 20 minutes, and the savings at the service station will be up to 1,500 rubles.

It is important to understand that depending on the year of manufacture and modification (Matiz M100, M150, M200, M300) design may vary slightly. We took these nuances into account and prepared universal instructions taking into account all options. Also in the article you will find list of original articles and high-quality analogues, which have stood the test of time and reviews from owners.

Where is the cabin filter located in Daewoo Matiz: photo and diagram

B Daewoo Matiz The cabin filter is located behind the center console on the passenger side, but not under the glove compartment, as in most cars, but a little higher - behind the plastic panel covering the air ducts. To get to it you will need:

1. Remove the plastic cover under the dashboard (it is secured with 2-3 clips).
2. Unscrew the screw (or two, depending on the year of manufacture) holding the filter cover.
3. Remove the old filter by pulling it down.

The photo below shows the exact location (the filter hatch is circled in red after removing the cover):

Photo of the location of the cabin filter in Matiz (click to view)

B Daewoo Matiz The cabin filter is located behind a plastic panel under the center console, to the right of the gas pedal. The hatch is rectangular, approximately 15x20 cm in size, with a latch on top. On restyled models (after 2010), the cover may be black instead of gray.

Please note that in models until 2005 there may be no filter at all - it was often not installed at the factory, leaving only a mesh. In this case, you will have to buy more filter holder (article 96354005) and install it yourself.

⚠️ Attention: On Matiz With an air conditioner, access to the filter may be difficult due to additional air ducts. In this case, it is recommended to first remove the glove compartment to avoid damaging the plastic clips.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cabin filter in Matiz

To replace the filter you will need:

• 🔧 Flat screwdriver (or plastic clip remover).
• 🔦 Flashlight (lighting under the dashboard is usually weak).
• 🧹 Vacuum cleaner or damp cloth to clean the case.
• 📦 New filter (original or analogue from our list below).

Sequence of actions:

1. Turn off the ignition and make sure the stove is turned off.
2. Remove the plastic trim under the dash on the passenger side. To do this, carefully pry it off the clips with a screwdriver (usually there are 2-3 of them).
3. Unscrew the screw (or two) holding the filter cover in place. In some modifications, latches are used instead of screws - they need to be bent.
4. Remove the old filter by pulling it down. Be prepared for the fact that debris may spill out of it - it is better to lay a rag over it.
5. Clean the planting area from dust and leaves. If heavily soiled, use a vacuum cleaner.
6. Install the new filter, observing the direction of the arrow (it should point down, in the direction of air movement).
7. Reassemble everything in reverse order, making sure the clips click into place.

Check the article number of the new filter (must match the original)

Prepare tools: screwdriver, flashlight, vacuum cleaner

Clear the footprint of debris

Make sure the arrow on the filter is pointing down

Check the operation of the stove after installation -->

If the filter does not fit into place, do not force it - most likely it is not installed in the direction of the air. Turn it over and try again. B Matiz with an air conditioner, additional removal of the air duct may be required - in this case, it is better to contact FAQ at the end of the article.

Original articles and the best analogues of filters for Matiz

Original cabin filter for Daewoo Matiz has an article number 96354005 (for models with air conditioning) and 96354004 (no air conditioning). However, the original is expensive (from 800 rubles), and its quality does not always justify the price. We tested several analogues and compiled a table of the best options:

Brand	Article	Type	Price, ₽	Features
Mann-Filter	CU 1929	Coal	650–750	High quality, good filtration, but a bit harsh to install.
Bosch	1 987 429 636	Regular	400–500	Soft material, easy to install, but does not hold odors well.
Filtron	K 1152	Coal	500–600	Optimal price/quality ratio, suitable for dusty regions.
SCT	SAK 339	Regular	250–350	A budget option, but requires more frequent replacement (every 10,000 km).
GoodWill	AG134CFC	Coal	450–550	Good protection against odors, but sometimes you get defective seals.

For Matiz with air conditioning we recommend choosing carbon filters - they cope better with bacteria and unpleasant odors that often arise when the climate system operates. If you drive mainly in the city, where there is a lot of exhaust gases, a carbon filter will extend the life of the air conditioner and improve the air quality in the cabin.

⚠️ Attention: Cheap filters without certification (for example, no-name from AliExpress) can fall apart after 2-3 months. Saving 200 rubles will result in repeated replacement and the risk of debris getting into the stove.

Signs of a clogged cabin filter: when is it time to change it

The manufacturer recommends changing the cabin filter at Matiz every 15,000 km or once a year. However, in real conditions (dusty roads, metropolis, frequent operation of the air conditioner) this interval is reduced to 8–10 thousand km. The following signs indicate that the filter requires replacement:

• 🌫️ Fogging of windows even with the stove on, the filter does not allow enough air to pass through for blowing.
• 🤢 Unpleasant smell in the cabin, especially when the ventilation is turned on (smell of mold or dampness).
• 💨 Weak air flow from the deflectors at maximum fan speed.
• 🦠 Allergic reactions in passengers (sneezing, sore throat) - a sign of accumulation of dust and fungi.
• 🔊 Extraneous noise when the stove is operating (whistle, crackle) - debris has gotten into the fan.

B Daewoo Matiz Due to design features, a clogged filter can lead to overheating of the heater resistor (article no. 96513349), which will result in expensive repairs (from 3,000 rubles). If you notice that the stove only works at speed 4 and does not blow at speeds 1–3, this is a sure sign that the filter requires urgent replacement.

You can check the condition of the filter visually:

1. Remove the cover (as described above).
2. Shine a flashlight onto the surface of the filter.
3. If no light shines through it or a layer of dirt thicker than 2–3 mm is visible, it’s time to change it.

Frequent mistakes when replacing the cabin filter in Matiz

Even experienced car owners make mistakes when replacing the cabin filter in Matiz. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them:

1. Installing the filter in reverse. The arrow on the filter should point down (in the direction of air flow). If installed incorrectly, filtration efficiency will decrease by 40-50%.
2. Ignoring case cleaning. Dust and leaves accumulated in the seat will negate the benefits of the new filter. Always clean the box with a vacuum cleaner.
3. Trying to "clean" the old filter. Blowing with compressed air or washing with water does not restore the properties of the filter - only replacement.
4. Use of incompatible analogues. Filters from Chevrolet Spark or Kia Picanto may not be the right size, even if they look similar.
5. The hatch is not closed completely. If the filter cover is not latched, unfiltered air will enter the cabin through the cracks.

Another common mistake is replacing the filter without checking the air conditioner drainage. B Matiz With climate control, condensation from the evaporator flows through a tube under the car. If it is clogged, water will accumulate in the interior, creating ideal conditions for mold. Before replacing the filter, make sure the drain hole (located under the machine, to the right of the engine) is clean.

How to extend the life of the cabin filter in Matiz

Average filter life in Daewoo Matiz - 10–15 thousand km, but with proper care it can be extended up to 20,000 km. Here are some proven methods:

• 🚗 Ventilate the interior regularly after travel, especially in wet weather. Humidity accelerates the growth of bacteria on the filter.
• 🌿 Use antibacterial sprays for an air conditioner (for example, Liqui Moly Klima-Anlagen-Reiniger) once every 3 months.
• 🔄 Turn on recirculation when driving on dusty roads or in traffic jams, this will reduce the load on the filter.
• 🛠️ Check door seals. If they are worn out, more dust enters the cabin and the filter clogs faster.
• 💦 Monitor your air conditioner drainage. A clogged tube leads to dampness and mold on the filter.

If you frequently drive on dirt roads or live in an area with high humidity, consider installing filter with increased area (for example, from Mann-Filter CU 22004). It costs more, but retains 30% more contaminants and lasts longer.

Also useful once every six months blow out the filter with compressed air (not water!). To do this, remove it, carefully blow it out from the back side (outside, not into the interior!) and install it back. This is a temporary measure, but it will help wait for a planned replacement if the budget is limited.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the cabin filter in Daewoo Matiz

Is it possible to drive without a cabin filter?

Technically, yes, but this will lead to rapid contamination of the air conditioner evaporator (if there is one), the heater radiator and air ducts. In the long run, this will result in expensive repairs. Without a filter, pollen, exhaust fumes and dust will enter the cabin, which is harmful to health.

Which filter is better - carbon or regular?

A carbon filter is better at filtering out odors and harmful gases (such as from exhaust), but is more expensive and may slightly impair airflow. A regular filter is cheaper and is suitable if you drive mostly on clean roads. For the city and traffic jams we definitely recommend coal.

What to do if the filter does not fit into place?

Most likely, it is installed in the wrong direction of air (the arrow should point down) or is not the right size. Check the article number and compare the new filter with the old one. If the problem persists, the plastic case may have become deformed and will need to be straightened or replaced.

How often should the filter be changed if the machine is rarely used?

Even if the mileage is low, the filter needs to be changed once every 1–1.5 years. Over time, the material loses its properties, and dust and bacteria accumulate in the interior. This is especially important for cars that are parked in a garage - it is often humid there, which promotes the growth of mold.

Is it possible to install a filter from another car?

Only if it completely matches in size and type of fastening. For example, filters from Chevrolet Spark (article 96354005) suitable for Matiz, but it’s better to take the original or proven analogues from our table. An incompatible filter may allow unfiltered air through the cracks.