AudiWorld Forums

Audi A6 C6: How to Replace Cabin Air Filter

Replacing the cabin air filter in an Audi A6 C6 is a DIY task you'll want to complete before the recommended interval. Here's how!

By Charlie Gaston - March 31, 2016

This article applies to the Audi A6 C6 (2004-2011).

You may not consciously know it's there, but the cabin air filter in your Audi A6 C6 is constantly working to filter all the air that passes through your vents. This filtering process is necessary to ensure the air you and your passengers breathe is free of harmful irritants, including, but not limited to, airborne bacteria, pollen, dust, smog, mold pores and more. But it won't last forever. The cabin air filter must be periodically changed to ensure a buildup of debris does not contaminate the interior cabin. Keep reading to learn how to quickly and easily change the cabin air filter in your Audi A6 C6.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement cabin air filter
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • Flashlight (optional)

The cabin air filter for the A6 C6 comes in a package as two separate filters that come together in the filter housing.

Figure 1. Replacement cabin air filter.

Step 1 – Access the glove box

Reach down and grab hold of the black panel located on the bottom of your glove box; grab a flashlight to illuminate the area, if necessary. Insert a small flat head screwdriver into the first small slot that you come across. Carefully guide the screwdriver upward, toward the hood of your car. Repeat this action for each of the two additional slots that you see in order to safely pop out the black panel. Don't worry, you won't need to apply much force here. Simply work each of the three slots until the adjoining tabs pop out and the black panel comes off.

  • Figure 2. Insert the screwdriver directly into the slot.
  • Figure 3. The black panel is now free.

Step 2 – Access and remove the cabin air filters

Look straight ahead and to the left, and you will see a housing holding two cabin air filters. Release the cover by gently pulling down on the lower tab. Remove the first cabin air filter, then the second one. You'll need to pull the second cabin air filter down and out to carefully remove it.

  • Figure 4. Direct your gaze to the left.
  • Figure 5. Remove both air filters, starting with the first one.

Don't be alarmed to find debris, including leaves and other large particles, trapped inside the filter, particularly the first one.

Figure 6. Discard your old cabin air filters.

Step 3 – Install the new cabin air filters

Allow the directional arrows to guide you as you carefully install your new cabin air filter, starting with the first one and then the second. Replace your cover and panel, and you are done!

Figure 7. Pay attention to the arrow direction when re-installing.

Pro Tips

  • Refer to your owner's manual for all replacement parts. Or, you may also contact your local Audi dealer. Provide your vehicle identification number (VIN) and he or she can tell you exactly which cabin air filter is needed for your car.
  • For especially bothersome odors, the issue may not be a dirty cabin air filter. You might need to have your entire heating, venting and air conditioning system flushed. Prices can range between $180 and $300, depending on the extent of the damage. Cigarette smoke can be especially hard to flush from a car's HVAC system.

Featured Video: How to Replace Cabin Air Filter Audi A6 C6

Related Discussions