Where Is the Cabin Air Filter Located in Buick and GMC Vehicles?

Your Buick or GMC is designed to deliver a smooth, comfortable driving experience—but one small component plays a surprisingly big role in your comfort: the cabin air filter. If you’ve ever noticed musty smells, reduced airflow, or increased dust inside your vehicle, your cabin air filter may be due for replacement.

At Kunes Buick GMC of Stoughton, we’re often asked: Where is the cabin air filter located in Buick and GMC vehicles? The answer can vary by model and year, but this guide will walk you through the most common locations, why the filter matters, and when it’s time to replace it.

The cabin air filter cleans the air that enters your vehicle’s interior through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. It helps remove:

• Dust and pollen
• Road debris
• Exhaust particles
• Mold spores and allergens

A clean cabin air filter improves air quality, HVAC performance, and overall comfort—especially important for allergy sufferers or anyone who spends a lot of time on the road.

While exact placement depends on the vehicle, most Buick and GMC models place the cabin air filter behind or near the glove box. Below are the most common locations.

This is by far the most frequent location in modern Buick and GMC vehicles.

How to access it:

• Open the glove box
• Remove the glove box stops or side dampener
• Let the glove box fold down
• Locate the rectangular filter housing behind it

This setup is common on models such as:

• Buick Encore
• Buick Envision
• Buick Enclave
• GMC Terrain
• GMC Acadia

Once exposed, the filter typically slides straight out, making replacement relatively simple.

Some older or larger Buick and GMC models place the cabin air filter under the dashboard on the passenger side, often behind a small access panel.

You may need:

• A flashlight
• A trim tool or screwdriver

This location is still DIY-friendly, but slightly less convenient than the glove box design.

In select models—especially older vehicles—the cabin air filter may be found under the hood near the windshield cowl.

This setup often requires:

• Removing plastic covers
• Ensuring the filter is sealed correctly to prevent water intrusion

Because of exposure to the elements, these filters may clog faster and should be checked regularly.

Some older Buick and GMC vehicles—particularly models produced before the mid-2000s—were not equipped with cabin air filters from the factory.

If you’re unsure whether your vehicle has one:

• Check your owner’s manual
• Ask a Kunes Buick GMC of Stoughton service advisor
• Have our technicians inspect it during your next service visit

In some cases, vehicles without a factory-installed filter can be retrofitted with one.

Most Buick and GMC models recommend replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or once a year. However, you may need more frequent replacement if you:

• Drive on dusty or gravel roads
• Live in areas with heavy pollen
• Commute in stop-and-go traffic
• Notice odors or weak airflow

• Reduced airflow from vents
• Persistent musty or dirty smells
• Increased allergy symptoms
• Foggy windows that take longer to clear

Many cabin air filter replacements are quick DIY jobs that take less than 10 minutes. However, installation errors—such as incorrect orientation or damaged housings—can reduce effectiveness.

That’s why many drivers choose professional replacement for peace of mind.

Cabin Air Filter Replacement at Kunes Buick GMC of Stoughton

At Kunes Buick GMC of Stoughton, our factory-trained technicians:

• Use OEM or high-quality replacement filters
• Ensure proper installation and airflow direction
• Inspect your HVAC system for additional concerns

We can replace your cabin air filter during routine maintenance like oil changes or multi-point inspections—often in just minutes.