How to Change the Cabin Filter in a 2003 Ford Taurus

Changing the cabin filter in a Ford Taurus is a simple maintenance step often overlooked by many car owners. The cabin filter cleans the air coming into the vehicle's passenger compartment through the heating, ventilating and air conditioning system (HVAC). Failing to replace a dirty cabin filter exposes drivers and passengers to dirty, polluted air and may damage the car's air conditioning system. Here's how to replace it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pliers
• Screwdriver
• New cabin filter element

1. Open the hood to locate the cabin filter. It is near the firewall on the passenger side of the vehicle, just below the windshield. A black cowl covers the filter assembly.
   
   

2. Unhook and remove the clip on the left side of the cowl cover.

3. Disconnect the vacuum hose from the left and center of the cowl cover. You may need to use the pliers to squeeze the hose clamp and disconnect the hose. Remove the passenger side cowl cover to access the cabin filter compartment.

4. Determine whether there is a rain shield covering the cabin filter. If there is, you may need to remove four screws to lift off the rain shield. Remove the old cabin filter and install the new cabin filter in the same position.
   
   

5. Replace the rain shield, the cowl cover and the vacuum hoses. Reinstall the passenger side clip to secure the cowl cover. A new cabin filter will last 15,000 miles under normal conditions. If the area where you drive is especially dusty or polluted, replace it after 10,000 miles.

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