How to Replace a Cabin Air Filter in a 1997 Dodge Ram
by Tonya Cunningham
If you notice that your 1997 Dodge Ram's vents seem sluggish or smell stale, it may be time for a cabin air-filter replacement. Generally, a vehicle's cabin air filter should be replaced every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. An air filter is responsible for trapping environmental debris that would otherwise create a hazardous environment for both you and your truck's health. When the filter has become overwhelmed with a coating of pollutants and particles, your vehicle's air quality suffers. Replacing the cabin filter takes 15 to 20 minutes and does not usually require a professional mechanic.
Step 1
Remove your glove box by unscrewing the two screws that are just under the dashboard above the passenger-side floor of your truck. The glove compartment should pull out relatively easily.
Step 2
Pull the cabin air filter straight out of the rectangular box that you will see directly behind the glove compartment when sitting in your front passenger seat. The air filter is easily identified because it has a black tab and when you pull it, you will see that it resembles a paper accordion.
Step 3
Clean the inside of the cabin air-filter container using your shop rag. The rag can be dampened with warm water to gather any dirt that may not be wiped up easily.
Step 4
Slide the new air filter completely into the cabin container. Be sure that it is all the way in before replacing the glove box.
Step 5
Mount the glove-compartment box back into its proper position, using caution not to force anything into place.
Step 6
Refasten the screws into the glove compartment's bottom side, and your cabin air-filter replacement is done.
References
Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver
- New cabin air filter
- Shop rag
Writer Bio
Born and raised in western New York, Tonya Cunningham attended Niagara University until 1992 as a pre-law student. Today, Cunningham is a legal assistant and freelance writer looking forward to the completion of her first book.
