One of our favorite things about owning a Tesla is how many traditional maintenance expenses simply disappear.
No oil changes.
No spark plugs.
No engine oil filters.
No traditional engine air filter.
But that doesn’t mean your Tesla is completely maintenance-free.
One simple maintenance item every Model 3 and Model Y owner should know how to handle is the cabin air filter replacement.
The good news?
You can do it yourself.
Instead of scheduling a service appointment and paying someone else for the labor, you can order an inexpensive 2-pack of activated carbon cabin air filters from Amazon and replace both filters at home.
For this project, we’re looking at the:
Tesla Model 3 / Model Y Activated Carbon Cabin Air Filter — 2 Pack
The replacement filter set we’re using is listed as:
2PCS Cabin Air Filter with Activated Carbon for Tesla Model 3 & Model Y
Reference/OE Number: 1107681-00-A
Additional References: CF12774 / XC11952C
Quantity: 2 filters
Filter Type: Activated Carbon Cabin Air Filter
That’s important because your Tesla uses two cabin air filters in this location.
So one inexpensive Amazon 2-pack gives you both filters needed to complete the job.
👉 CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
Always verify Amazon’s current vehicle fitment information for your exact Tesla model and model year before ordering.
Why We Like This Tesla Cabin Filter 2-Pack
For us, this is exactly the type of product that belongs on MyTeslaSavings.com.
It’s inexpensive.
It’s something your Tesla actually needs.
You can install it yourself.
And buying the replacement filters allows you to avoid paying someone else to perform a relatively straightforward maintenance job.
The activated-carbon construction is another reason we prefer this type of replacement over the cheapest basic particulate filter we can find.
Activated carbon is commonly used in automotive cabin filters to help adsorb certain odors and gaseous contaminants in addition to the filter media capturing airborne particles.
If you’re already taking the time to remove the old filters, we’d rather install a good-quality activated-carbon replacement.
How Often Should You Replace Tesla Cabin Air Filters?
Tesla recommends replacing the cabin air filters on Model 3 and Model Y vehicles approximately every two years under normal conditions.
But two years shouldn’t necessarily be treated as an absolute rule.
You may want to inspect or replace them sooner if you regularly drive in areas with:
- Heavy pollen
- Dust
- Construction
- Wildfire smoke
- High humidity
- Heavy traffic
- Poor air quality
And there’s another reason Tesla owners commonly start looking into cabin filters.
The Infamous Tesla Musty Air Conditioner Smell
If you’ve owned your Tesla for a while, you may have experienced this.
You turn on the climate control and get hit with a strange:
Musty smell.
Damp smell.
Or the infamous:
“Dirty sock” smell.
Old cabin filters can contribute to unpleasant HVAC odors, so replacing them is a logical maintenance step.
However, there’s an important distinction.
New cabin filters won’t necessarily fix every HVAC odor.
Moisture and contamination around the air-conditioning evaporator can also produce odors. If the smell returns shortly after installing new filters, the HVAC evaporator may require additional cleaning.
Still, if your filters are old anyway, replacing them is a great place to start.
How Many Cabin Air Filters Does a Tesla Model 3 or Model Y Need?
Two.
That’s why we specifically like purchasing a 2-pack.
Inside the HVAC housing you’ll find two rectangular filters stacked vertically:
Upper Filter
and
Lower Filter
During replacement, you’ll remove both old filters and install two new ones.
Don’t make the mistake of ordering a single replacement filter unless you’re intentionally buying two of them.
Is This the Same as the Tesla HEPA/Bioweapon Defense Filter?
No.
This distinction is important.
Some Tesla Model Y vehicles have a larger HEPA filtration system associated with Bioweapon Defense Mode.
That is a separate filtration system.
The filters we’re replacing in this guide are the two cabin air filters located in the passenger-side footwell/center-console area.
So when you’re shopping, don’t accidentally order the large Model Y HEPA/Bioweapon Defense filter thinking it’s the same thing.
It isn’t.
What You’ll Need to Replace Your Tesla Cabin Filters
This is a surprisingly short shopping list.
You’ll need:
Tesla Model 3/Model Y Activated Carbon Cabin Air Filter — 2 Pack
T20 Torx driver and/or 6mm socket
Small flashlight
That’s basically it.
Depending on your Tesla’s model year, the cabin filter cover may use a screw or retaining tabs, so the exact tool requirements can vary.
Our Amazon Shopping List
Before starting, we’d order:
1. Activated Carbon Tesla Cabin Air Filters — 2 Pack
This is the main product we’re installing.
Look for the 2PCS replacement set referencing:
1107681-00-A / CF12774 / XC11952C
2. Plastic Automotive Trim Removal Tool
You don’t need an expensive set.
A simple plastic trim tool makes removing the center-console trim considerably easier and reduces the chance of scratching your interior.
3. T20 Torx Driver / 6mm Socket
Depending on the model year, one of these may be needed to release the filter access cover.
4. Small Flashlight
Trust us on this one.
You’ll be working underneath the passenger dashboard.
Having a small flashlight is much easier than trying to balance your phone while looking for a screw or electrical connector.
How to Replace Tesla Model 3 & Model Y Cabin Air Filters
Now let’s install them.
The basic process is:
Remove trim → remove footwell panel → open filter housing → remove two old filters → install two new filters → put everything back together.
The exact trim, clips and filter-cover fasteners can differ depending on the year of your Model 3 or Model Y, so check the current Tesla procedure for your particular vehicle before beginning.
Step 1: Park Your Tesla and Turn Off the Climate Control
Put the vehicle in Park.
Turn off the climate-control system.
Open the front passenger door.
Now move the passenger seat as far backward as possible.
Remove the passenger floor mat.
You’re going to be working in the passenger footwell, so give yourself as much room as possible.
Step 2: Remove the Passenger-Side Center Console Trim
Look at the trim panel running vertically along the passenger side of the center console.
Carefully begin releasing it.
This is where your inexpensive plastic trim removal tool comes in handy.
Work your way along the panel rather than aggressively pulling on one end.
You’re releasing a series of retaining clips.
Once the clips are free, remove the trim panel and place it somewhere safe.
TIP: Avoid using a metal screwdriver to pry against visible Tesla interior trim. A plastic trim tool is inexpensive and far less likely to leave a scratch.
Step 3: Remove the Passenger Footwell Panel
Next, look underneath the dashboard in the passenger footwell.
You’ll need to lower the footwell cover.
Depending on the vehicle, this panel may use clips or magnets.
Carefully release it.
Don’t yank the panel downward.
There are electrical components and connectors attached to it.
Support the panel with your hand as you lower it.
Step 4: Disconnect the Electrical Connectors
You’ll need enough room to move the footwell panel out of your way.
Carefully disconnect the appropriate electrical connectors attached to the panel.
These may include components such as the footwell light and speaker.
Press the connector’s retaining tab and pull on the plastic connector housing.
Never pull on the wires themselves.
Put the footwell panel somewhere safe.
Important Model 3 Safety Warning
Depending on your vehicle, you may see orange high-voltage cables near the area where you’re working.
Don’t touch, pull, pry against, bend or otherwise disturb them.
Orange wiring in an EV indicates high-voltage equipment.
Work around it carefully.
If you see anything damaged or unusual, stop.
Step 5: Find the Cabin Air Filter Cover
Now look toward the center of the vehicle.
You’ll find a narrow vertical access cover on the HVAC housing.
Behind that cover are your two cabin filters.
Depending on your Model 3 or Model Y’s year, the cover may be retained by:
A T20 fastener
A 6mm fastener
or
Retaining tabs
This is why we recommend checking your exact vehicle before beginning.
Step 6: Remove the Filter Cover
If yours has a screw, remove it with the appropriate tool.
And here’s some hard-earned DIY advice:
Put the screw somewhere safe immediately.
Don’t put it on the carpet next to you.
Small screws seem to possess a supernatural ability to disappear underneath car seats.
If your filter cover uses tabs, release the tabs and remove the cover.
Now you’ll see the side of the first cabin filter.
Step 7: Remove the Upper Cabin Filter
Find the pull tab on the upper filter.
Fold the tab outward and pull the filter toward you.
You may have to maneuver it slightly to get it completely out.
Don’t worry about bending the old filter.
It’s going in the trash anyway.
Step 8: Remove the Lower Filter
There’s another filter underneath the first one.
Grab its pull tab.
You’ll generally need to:
Pull it upward first
and then
Pull it outward.
Essentially, you’re moving the lower filter into the space previously occupied by the upper filter before removing it.
Once it’s out, both old filters have been removed.
Take a Look at Those Old Filters
Before throwing them away, compare them with your new activated-carbon filters.
This can be surprisingly satisfying.
After years of use, you may find:
Dust
Pollen
Leaves
Hair
Dirt
and all kinds of debris trapped in the old filter media.
And remember:
Without the filters, some of that material would otherwise be making its way farther into your HVAC system or cabin.
This also makes an excellent before-and-after photo.
Step 9: Check the Airflow Arrows on Your New Filters
Before installing the Amazon replacement filters, look for the airflow arrows printed on them.
This is important.
For the Tesla cabin-filter installation, the airflow arrows should point:
TOWARD THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE
Check both filters before inserting them.
Don’t just copy the orientation of the old filter because someone could have installed those incorrectly.
Follow the specified airflow direction.
Step 10: Install the First Activated Carbon Filter
Take your first new filter.
Make sure the airflow arrow points toward the rear of the Tesla.
Slide it through the access opening.
Then move the filter downward into the lower position.
Make sure it’s seated correctly.
Step 11: Install the Second Filter
Now grab your second filter from the 2-pack.
Again:
Airflow arrow toward the rear.
Slide it into the upper position.
You should now have both activated-carbon filters stacked vertically inside the HVAC housing.
Make sure neither filter is crushed, twisted or improperly seated.
Step 12: Reinstall the Cabin Filter Cover
Reinstall the HVAC filter access cover.
Make sure all of its locating tabs are properly positioned.
If your vehicle uses a screw, reinstall it.
Don’t overtighten it.
This is a small HVAC access cover, not a structural component.
Step 13: Reconnect the Footwell Panel
Reconnect any electrical connectors you previously disconnected.
Make sure they’re fully seated.
Again:
Push on the connector housing—not the wires.
Before putting everything back together, it’s a good idea to double-check that you haven’t left a tool or screw behind the panel.
Step 14: Reinstall the Passenger Footwell Cover
Position the panel underneath the dashboard.
Reconnect its clips or magnets and make sure the panel sits flush.
Step 15: Reinstall the Center Console Trim
Align the side trim with its clips.
Gently press along the panel until each clip snaps back into position.
Run your hand along the edge afterward.
Everything should sit flush without large gaps.
Step 16: Test Your Tesla HVAC System
Put your floor mat back.
Return the passenger seat to its normal position.
Now turn on your Tesla climate control.
Start at a low fan speed.
Then increase it.
Check that:
Airflow feels normal
There are no unusual noises
The footwell electronics work
and
The trim doesn’t rattle.
If everything looks and sounds normal, you’re done.
Don’t Forget the Maintenance Reset
Depending on your Tesla and software version, you may be able to record or reset the cabin air filter replacement through the vehicle’s Service or Maintenance menu.
Tesla changes its software menus periodically, so don’t be concerned if your screen doesn’t exactly match a video made several years ago.
Check your vehicle’s current:
Controls → Service
options for the applicable cabin-filter maintenance setting.
How Long Does This DIY Project Take?
The first time is always the slowest.
You’re figuring out where the clips are, how the connectors release and where the filter-cover fastener is located.
Once you’ve done it once, it’s much easier.
For us, this falls into the same category as replacing Tesla windshield wipers:
It’s a maintenance job that’s intimidating until you actually do it.
Then you realize it’s mostly removing a few pieces, swapping a consumable part and putting everything back together.
Why Activated Carbon?
The Amazon replacement set we’re highlighting uses activated carbon.
Activated carbon has an extremely porous structure that can adsorb certain gases and odor-causing compounds.
That’s one reason it’s commonly incorporated into automotive cabin filters.
The filter still provides particulate filtration, while the carbon layer adds another filtration mechanism.
Does that mean it’ll magically eliminate every smell from your Tesla?
No.
But given the relatively low cost of activated-carbon replacement filters, it’s a feature we like having.
Will New Filters Fix the Tesla “Dirty Sock” Smell?
Maybe—but don’t count on filters alone.
If your old filters are dirty or contaminated, replacing them may make a noticeable difference.
However, a persistent musty odor can originate from moisture and microbial buildup around the HVAC evaporator.
If the odor returns quickly after replacing the filters, you may need to investigate Tesla evaporator cleaning as your next DIY maintenance project.
That’s something we’ll cover separately on MyTeslaSavings.com.
How Much Can You Save Doing This Yourself?
This is where this project really makes sense.
The activated-carbon replacement filters we’re looking at are relatively inexpensive.
Then you need only a few basic tools.
And if you already have:
A T20 driver
6mm socket
and
Plastic trim tool
your only real expense is the filters.
Compare that with scheduling a service visit and paying for both parts and labor.
Even better, the knowledge doesn’t expire.
When your filters need replacing again, you already know how to do it.
That’s exactly the type of Tesla ownership savings we like.
Our Verdict: Is the Amazon Tesla Cabin Filter 2-Pack Worth It?
For DIY Tesla owners, we think this type of product makes a lot of sense.
You’re getting:
Two replacement cabin filters
Activated-carbon filtration
A direct replacement-style filter
and
Everything you need filter-wise to replace both filters at once.
Most importantly, it turns routine Tesla maintenance into a DIY project instead of another service appointment.
Tesla Model 3 / Model Y Activated Carbon Cabin Air Filter 2-Pack
Quantity: 2 filters
Type: Activated carbon cabin air filter
Reference: 1107681-00-A
Additional References: CF12774 / XC11952C
Installation Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Specialized Tesla Tools Required: None
DIY Value: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
👉 CHECK CURRENT PRICE ON AMAZON
Amazon product prices, specifications and vehicle-fitment claims can change. Verify the product listing’s current compatibility with your exact Tesla model, model year and configuration before purchasing.
Tesla Cabin Air Filter FAQ
How often should you change a Tesla Model 3 cabin air filter?
Tesla generally recommends replacing Model 3 cabin filters approximately every two years under normal U.S. conditions.
How often should you change a Tesla Model Y cabin air filter?
Tesla also generally recommends approximately every two years for Model Y cabin filters under normal U.S. conditions.
Does a Tesla Model 3 need two cabin air filters?
Yes. The HVAC filter compartment uses two stacked filters, which is why purchasing a 2-pack is convenient.
Does the Tesla Model Y use two cabin filters?
Yes. The cabin-filter replacement we’re discussing uses two filters.
Which way should the Tesla cabin air filter arrows point?
The airflow arrows should point toward the rear of the vehicle when the filters are installed.
Are activated-carbon cabin filters better?
Activated carbon adds the ability to adsorb certain gases and odor-causing compounds in addition to the particulate filtration provided by the filter media. Actual performance depends on the design and quality of the particular filter.
Does this replace the Model Y HEPA filter?
No. Don’t confuse these two interior cabin filters with the larger HEPA/Bioweapon Defense filtration system available on some Model Y vehicles.
Can I replace Tesla cabin air filters myself?
If you’re comfortable removing interior trim and electrical connectors, this is one of the more approachable Tesla DIY maintenance projects.
Skip the Service Fee and Do It Yourself
Replacing your Tesla Model 3 or Model Y cabin air filters isn’t the most exciting modification you’ll ever make.
It doesn’t make your Tesla faster.
It doesn’t add horsepower.
And nobody is going to notice it in the parking lot.
But that’s exactly why we like it.
It’s inexpensive preventative maintenance that you can perform yourself.
Grab the 2-pack of activated-carbon Tesla cabin filters from Amazon, set aside some time, and follow the installation procedure.
When you’re finished, you’ve got fresh filters—and one less maintenance job you have to pay somebody else to perform.
That’s what MyTeslaSavings.com is all about.
Save money. Learn your Tesla. And handle the easy maintenance yourself.
