Replacing the cabin filter on a Mercedes W205: a detailed guide with photos and videos

Why replacing the cabin filter on a W205 is not a luxury, but a necessity

Cabin filter in Mercedes-Benz W205 (C-Class 2014-2021) is a barrier between you and the millions of particles of dust, pollen, exhaust fumes and even bacteria that try to enter the cabin every day. Many owners ignore replacing it, attributing bad smells or foggy windows to “climate conditions” or “air conditioning malfunction.” In fact a clogged filter reduces the efficiency of the ventilation system by 30–40%, forcing the air conditioning system to work with increased load.

The manufacturer recommends changing the cabin filter every 15,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. However, for Russian realities, where the roads are dusty and the air in cities is far from ideal, this interval should be reduced to 10,000 km. Ignoring replacement leads to the formation of mold on the air conditioner evaporator, which can lead not only to an unpleasant odor, but also to allergic reactions in passengers.

In this article you will find:

• 🔧 Step-by-step instructions with photos and videos (including nuances for restyled models 2018+)
• 📦 Filter rating: which is better to choose - carbon, regular or HEPA?
• ⚠️ Common mistakes when replacing and how to avoid them
• 💰 Cost of work in the service vs independent replacement (saving up to 3,000 ₽)

What tools are needed for replacement?

One of the nice features Mercedes W205 — this is ease of access to the cabin filter. Unlike many German competitors (e.g. BMW F30, where it is necessary to disassemble half of the dashboard), here it is enough to remove the glove compartment. However, you cannot do without a minimum set of tools.

You will need:

• 🔩 Screwdriver with Phillips bit (size PH2)
• 🔧 Plastic puller or flat screwdriver (for glove box latches)
• 🧴 Plastic cleaner (for example, Sonax Plastic Cleaner)
• 📸 Phone with a flashlight (to illuminate hard-to-reach places)
• 🧤 Nitrile gloves (the filter may be covered with dust and fungus)

⚠️ Attention: If your W205 equipped with a system Air Balance (optional 873), then in addition to the main filter there is an additional carbon element. Replacing it requires removing the panel under the steering wheel - without experience, it is better to entrust this to a service.

Where is the cabin filter located in Mercedes W205

Cabin filter in W205 located behind the glove compartment on the passenger side. The exact location depends on the year of manufacture:

• 🚗 Dorestyle (2014–2018) — the filter is located in a plastic box immediately behind the glove compartment. The lid is secured with two latches.
• 🚘 Restyle (2018–2021) — the design is similar, but an additional fastener is added at the bottom (often they forget to unfasten it).

To get to the filter:

1. Open the glove compartment and remove all items from it.
2. Push the side walls of the glove compartment inward to release the latches.
3. Lower the glove compartment down (it hangs on the lower hinges).
4. Behind the glove compartment you will see a black plastic cover with the inscription AIR FILTER.

Step-by-step instructions for replacing the cabin filter

The replacement process will take no more than 20 minutes if you follow a clear algorithm. The main thing is to take your time and not use excessive force when removing the cover, so as not to break the plastic latches.

Step 1. Removing the glove compartment

Press on the side walls of the glove compartment (closer to the passenger compartment) and pull it towards you. It should go down. If the glove compartment is stuck, check to see if you forgot to remove small items from it (for example, USB flash drive or glasses).

Step 2: Removing the filter cover

The filter cover is secured with two latches on the sides. Gently pry them off with a flathead screwdriver or plastic puller. On restyled models, additionally unfasten the lower lock (it is located at an angle of 45°).

Step 3: Removing the old filter

Remove the old filter by pulling it towards you. Be prepared for the fact that it may fall apart - especially if it has not been changed for more than 2 years. Inspect the filter box for leaves, insects, or condensation.

Step 4: Install a new filter

Before installing a new filter, vacuum the box (you can use a car vacuum cleaner or a can of compressed air). Make sure the arrow on the filter (indicating the direction of air flow) is facing down. Insert the filter all the way - it should fit tightly, without gaps.

Step 5. Assembly

Close the filter cover (snap all latches), return the glove compartment to its place and check that it opens/closes without effort.

Which cabin filter to choose for W205: comparison of options

There are three types of filters on the market for Mercedes W205:

1. Normal (dust) — retains only large particles (dust, pollen). The most budget option, but does not protect against gases and odors.
2. Coal - in addition to dust, it absorbs harmful gases (for example, NOx), neutralizes unpleasant odors. The best choice for the city.
3. HEPA filter - traps up to 99.9% of particles up to 0.3 µm (including bacteria and viruses). Used in premium versions and cars with the system Air Balance.

The table below shows a comparison of popular filter models, indicating article numbers and average prices:

Advice: If you often drive on dusty roads or live in a metropolis, choose a carbon filter with a maximum filtration area (for example, Mann CU 29 003). For regions with clean air, ordinary dust air is sufficient.

Common replacement mistakes and how to avoid them

Even such a simple procedure as replacing the cabin filter is fraught with several pitfalls. Here are the most common mistakes owners make W205:

1. Wrong filter direction — the arrow on the filter should point down (in the direction of air flow). If you mix it up, the filter will quickly clog.
2. Ignore additional filter - in cars with the option Air Balance There is a second carbon element under the panel. It also needs to be changed.
3. Damage to glove compartment latches — if you pull the glove compartment with force, the plastic clips may break. It is better to use a plastic puller.
4. Forgetting to clean the filter box — the dirt accumulated there negates the effect of the new filter.

⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the filter a strong chemical smell appears in the cabin, most likely you bought a fake carbon filter. In original filters (Mann, Mahle) coal does not have a pungent odor. Replace the filter immediately!

Another typical problem is extraneous noise after replacement. If you hear a whistling or humming sound when the fan is running, check:

• 🔍 The tightness of the filter (it may be installed crookedly).
• 🔍 Presence of foreign objects in the box (for example, a forgotten tool).
• 🔍 The integrity of the rubber seal on the lid.

How much does it cost to replace it at a service center versus doing it yourself?

Cost of replacing the cabin filter at an official dealer Mercedes-Benz starts from 2 500 ₽ (excluding filter cost). In independent services the price is lower - 1 200–1 800 ₽. However, if you decide to do it yourself, your costs will be limited to just purchasing a filter.

Let's compare the costs:

The benefits of self-replacement are obvious: savings of up to 3 000 ₽ and a guarantee that the work is done efficiently (many services save time and do not clean the filter box). In addition, you will be able to personally assess the condition of the old filter - if it is clogged with leaves or covered with mold, this is a signal that it is time to check the air conditioner evaporator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Settings → Service → Reset service intervals → Cabin filter