Tesla Model Y – Cabin Filter Replacement (Instructions)
Regular filter replacement keeps the air in your Tesla Model Y clean, ensures the climate control system operates efficiently, and prevents your windows from fogging up. In these instructions, you’ll learn how to easily replace it yourself in just a few minutes.
Quick Check
| Time required | approx. 15-20 minutes |
| Difficulty level | Medium |
| Installation location | Passenger footwell |
| Tools | Trim removal tool & Torx T20 screwdriver / 6 mm socket wrench |
| Compatible filter | EDOC-1008 |
| Airflow | toward the rear |
| Manufacturer's interval | every 15,000-30,000 km or 24 months |
| EV-DOC recommendation | every 15,000-20,000 km or 12-18 months |
Preparation
- Secure the vehicle: Make sure the vehicle is secured in Park (P), completely deactivated (ignition/system off), and that the ventilation/climate control system is switched off.
- Protection & hygiene: Place a mat or cloth under the work area to catch falling dirt. Safety glasses and a dust mask protect you from falling dust and pollen. It is best to have a vacuum cleaner ready to vacuum out the housing before installation.
- Lighting: Since the installation location is usually dark, we recommend using a headlamp or flashlight for the best possible visibility.
- Tools: You will need a plastic trim removal tool and a Torx T20 screwdriver or 6 mm socket wrench for the cover screw, depending on the model year.
- Access: The filter is located in the passenger footwell, on the left side of the center console. Move the seat all the way back and recline the backrest as far as possible to create maximum working space.
Step-by-step instructions
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Release the upper footwell cover & cables
Use the trim removal tool to release the plastic clips of the cover directly beneath the glove compartment. Carefully lower the cover, disconnect the connectors for the footwell lighting and speaker, and set the trim panel aside. -
Remove the center console side panel
Release the carpeted side panel on the left side of the passenger footwell. Grip the panel at the rear and carefully pull it outward to release it from the clips. -
Open the filter housing
A single screw is located at the very top of the vertical filter cover (T20 Torx or 6 mm hex). Remove the screw, unhook the cover at the bottom, and take it off. -
Remove the old filter elements
Tesla uses two stacked filter elements. First, pull out the upper filter element using the fabric tab. Then lift the lower filter element in the compartment and pull it out as well. -
Install the new filters
Insert the first filter element and push it all the way down into the compartment. Then insert the second filter element directly above it. Make sure the fabric tabs on the filter face outward, toward the passenger door, so you can easily grip them during the next replacement.↔ Airflow: The arrows on the side of the filters must point toward the rear!
💡 Pro tip: Keep the lower filter element flat against the bottom of the housing as you slide it in. If the upper element catches during installation, gently squeeze it along the long sides – this allows it to slide smoothly over the lower element!
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Close the housing & reinstall the trim panels
Insert the filter cover at the bottom, fold it upward, and tighten the screw. Clip the carpeted side panel back into place. Reconnect the lighting and speaker cables to the upper cover and press it firmly until the clips engage.

