2019 Jeep Cherokee Cabin Air Filter Location & Easy Replacement Guide

The cabin air filter in your 2019 Jeep Cherokee is located behind the glove box. Accessing it requires gently lowering the glove box compartment by releasing specific retaining stops and pins on its sides, then removing the filter housing cover. No special tools beyond a screwdriver are usually needed, and the entire replacement process typically takes less than 15 minutes.

Knowing exactly where your 2019 Jeep Cherokee cabin air filter sits and how to change it is a fundamental aspect of routine vehicle maintenance. This simple task significantly impacts the air quality inside your vehicle and protects vital components. Fresh air entering the Cherokee's cabin passes through this filter before circulating through your heating, air conditioning, and ventilation systems. Its precise position behind the glove box balances protection from road elements with relatively simple accessibility for owners. Understanding its location and the steps to replace it empowers you to maintain a cleaner, healthier driving environment efficiently and cost-effectively.

Why Locating and Changing Your Cabin Air Filter Matters

The primary function of the cabin air filter is often underestimated. Positioned strategically at the intake point for your Jeep's interior climate control system, it acts as the first and most critical barrier against airborne pollutants. Dust and dirt constantly swirl around moving vehicles. Road grit, brake dust, tire debris, and other fine particles are constantly pulled towards your vehicle. Without an effective filter, these contaminants enter the cabin through the vents.

Pollen levels can become extremely high during specific seasons. For individuals suffering from seasonal allergies, exposure to pollen inside the confined space of a vehicle can trigger significant symptoms. A clean cabin air filter captures a substantial portion of pollen spores. Urban environments and heavy traffic produce significant exhaust fumes and microscopic particulate matter. Breathing these pollutants directly is undesirable. The cabin filter traps a percentage of these combustion byproducts.

Unpleasant odors from sources outside the vehicle, such as farms, garbage trucks, or industrial areas, can sometimes infiltrate improperly filtered systems. A fresh filter helps neutralize or block these smells. Perhaps most crucially, neglecting filter changes directly harms the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system itself. Blower fans draw air through the filter; a clogged filter forces the blower motor to work harder, increasing stress on its motor and potentially shortening its lifespan. Restricted airflow also reduces the system's overall heating and cooling efficiency. Cold air output suffers in summer, and warm air feels less potent in winter. Moisture trapped within a dirty filter provides an ideal environment for mold and mildew growth inside the housing and ductwork, leading to persistent musty odors whenever the system operates.

Essential Tools and Preparation

Accessing and replacing the cabin air filter in your 2019 Jeep Cherokee requires minimal equipment. Gather these items before starting:

1. New Cabin Air Filter: This is essential. Always use a filter specified for your exact Cherokee model year (2019) and engine size. Refer to your owner's manual or consult a parts retailer using your VIN. Filters come in various types: basic particle filters, activated charcoal filters (excellent for odor reduction), and higher-performance combinations. Choose based on your needs, budget, and typical driving conditions.
2. Flashlight or Work Light: Good lighting is vital. The glove box cavity and filter housing can be shadowy. A focused flashlight helps you see the retaining clips clearly and avoid fumbling.
3. Gloves: Optional, but recommended. Gloves keep your hands clean from accumulated dust inside the housing and filter frame.

Preparation steps ensure a smooth and safe process:

• Park Safely: Find a flat, level surface to park your Cherokee. Engage the parking brake firmly.
• Allow Cool Down: If the engine was running recently, wait 10-15 minutes to allow components under the dash, including the blower motor, to cool slightly. This prevents accidental burns and makes the environment more comfortable.
• Clear the Glove Box: Open the glove compartment and remove all contents. CDs, manuals, documents, sunglasses – everything needs to come out. A clear glove box allows full downward travel later.
• Organize Small Parts: Place any screws or retaining pins you remove in a small cup or magnetized dish to prevent losing them. Position your new filter, flashlight, and any tools within easy reach.
• Disconnect Negative Battery Terminal (Optional but Recommended): For absolute safety concerning the blower motor circuit, disconnect the negative (-) terminal of your battery. Use a suitable wrench (usually 10mm). Ensure you have any necessary security codes (like for your radio) before doing this, as they may reset. While the risk is low with the ignition off, this step provides peace of mind, especially the first time you perform this task.

Step-by-Step Guide: Accessing the Filter Location

The cabin air filter is behind the glove box, inside the HVAC housing against the firewall. The glove box must be gently lowered to access the filter cover.

1. Open the Glove Box: Pull the glove box door fully open using the latch handle.
2. Locate Glove Box Dampener (If Equipped): Some trim levels may have a small hydraulic or rubber cord damper attached to the top right side of the glove box inside. If present, carefully detach the end connected to the glove box side. Usually, it pops off a small plastic ball stud.
3. Identify Glove Box Retaining Stops: Look deep inside the open glove box cavity, along both the left and right inner walls. You will see prominent plastic tabs or molded stops protruding inward towards the glove box interior. These prevent the glove box from dropping too far when fully opened.
4. Release Right Side Stops: Push inward firmly but carefully on the right side of the glove box wall (outside the compartment), just next to the first stop. This flexes the plastic slightly. Simultaneously, gently pull the glove box compartment downward. You should feel the first stop disengage. Repeat for the second stop on the right side if needed. Continue gently pulling downward until both right side stops clear their catches.
5. Release Left Side Stops: Move to the left side of the glove box. Again, push inward firmly on the glove box wall next to the stops, and pull the compartment downward to disengage the stops. Continue pulling down until the glove box compartment hinges hang freely, allowing it to drop to a significantly lower angle than normal operation (typically near vertical or pointing slightly rearward). Do not force it excessively.
6. Locate the Filter Housing: With the glove box fully lowered, shine your flashlight towards the back. You will see a large rectangular plastic housing. This is the HVAC housing. On the passenger side of this housing is a distinct rectangular plastic cover, roughly the same size as the filter itself.
7. Identify Filter Cover Retaining Tabs: Examine the edges of this cover. On the 2019 Cherokee, the cover is typically secured by two or more flexible plastic retaining tabs. Common locations are:
   • One tab on the right side edge (near the center console).
   • One tab on the bottom edge.
   • Sometimes a third tab on the left side.
   • Crucially, there are often tabs or guides on the top edge that simply slide into place and are released by pulling the cover downwards.
8. Release Retaining Tabs: Use your fingers. Press each tab inward firmly (towards the center of the cover) while simultaneously pulling the cover gently but firmly downwards and towards you. Start with the right and bottom tabs. As you release them, pull the cover straight down and off. Avoid prying with tools to prevent snapping tabs.

Removing the Old Filter and Installing the New One

1. Observe the Old Filter Orientation: Once the cover is off, you will see the edge of the old cabin air filter inside the housing slot. Before removing it, note the direction of the airflow arrows printed on the filter's frame. These arrows must point in the correct direction when installing the new filter. On the 2019 Cherokee, the airflow direction is generally towards the driver (rearward) or down. Never install the new filter backwards. Pay attention to how the old filter sits.
2. Carefully Remove the Old Filter: Grasp the edge of the old filter and pull it straight out of the housing slot. Be prepared for dust, leaves, or debris potentially falling out. Inspect it. A dirty filter will often be clogged with visible debris, dust, and possibly damp spots or signs of mold. This validates why replacement was necessary.
3. Inspect the Housing: Take a moment with your flashlight to look into the empty filter slot. Check for any large debris, twigs, or leaves that might have bypassed the filter or fallen in during removal. Gently vacuum or pick them out with fingers or tweezers if needed. Avoid leaving large items inside.
4. Prepare the New Filter: Take the new filter out of its packaging. Identify the airflow arrows printed clearly on its plastic frame. Ensure you know the correct direction based on your notes from step 1 and your Cherokee's housing.
5. Install the New Filter: Carefully slide the new filter into the housing slot. Make absolutely sure the airflow arrows point the correct direction. Use moderate force if needed, but avoid bending the delicate filter material. It should slide in straight and seat fully against any stops at the back. Ensure the filter is sitting flat and level within the slot; you shouldn't see large gaps around the edges. Gently press around the edges to confirm it's properly seated. The frame should align with the housing opening without overlapping the cover's mounting surface.
6. Reinstall the Filter Cover: Align the filter cover over the opening. Check that the top edges are engaged under any fixed guides on the housing above the filter slot. Starting at the top, press the cover firmly onto the housing until you hear and feel the retaining tabs snap securely back into place. Press around all edges to confirm it's fully locked and flush. Do not overtighten or force it.

Reassembling the Glove Box Area

1. Reposition the Glove Box: Lift the glove box compartment back up into its original opening position. Ensure both sides are aligned correctly. It should hang freely.
2. Re-engage Glove Box Retaining Stops: Starting with the left side stops. Apply inward pressure on the glove box wall next to the stops (the same spot you pressed before), and push the glove box upwards firmly until you feel the stops click or snap back into place over their catches. Do this for both stops on the left side. Move to the right side. Apply inward pressure next to the stops and push the glove box upwards until both right side stops snap over their catches. Ensure all stops are fully engaged on both sides.
3. Reattach Glove Box Dampener: If your Cherokee has the small damper, reattach it firmly to the ball stud on the right side of the glove box interior. Give it a gentle pull to ensure it's securely clipped.
4. Operate Glove Box: Carefully open and close the glove box door several times. Ensure it operates smoothly without binding, feels fully supported, and doesn't sag or have reduced capacity. Confirm the latch works correctly.

Final Steps and Safety

1. Reconnect Battery: If you disconnected the battery in the preparation phase, now is the time to reconnect the negative (-) terminal. Tighten it securely with your wrench.
2. Test HVAC System: Start your Jeep. Turn on the ignition. Select your Cherokee's ventilation system – turn on the fan to its highest speed and direct airflow to the face vents. Listen carefully. You should hear smooth blower fan operation. Feel the strength of the air coming out of the vents; airflow should feel noticeably stronger than before replacement. Check both hot and cold air modes briefly to confirm normal operation. Ensure no unusual rattles or new vibrations emanate from behind the glove box.
3. Reset Systems: If your battery was disconnected, reprogram radio presets, clocks, and potentially power window auto-up/down features according to your owner's manual.

Common Challenges and Solutions While Accessing the Filter Location

While generally straightforward, a few minor hiccups can occur when accessing the 2019 Cherokee cabin air filter:

• Glove Box Won't Drop Down: Cause: You might not be pressing firmly enough inward next to the stops. Sometimes one stop is engaged while another isn't. Solution: Apply firm, steady inward pressure directly on the glove box plastic wall adjacent to each stop point while simultaneously pulling downward firmly but smoothly. Try each side individually if needed.
• Filter Cover Won't Release: Cause: You might be overlooking a hidden tab. On later KL Cherokees (like 2019), the top often has guides requiring a downward pull. Or tabs might be stiff. Solution: Re-examine all edges of the cover. Push inward firmly and pull down simultaneously on suspected tabs. Focus on the sides and bottom initially. If still stuck, gentle pressure on the top edge downwards can sometimes release it.
• Glove Box Feels Misaligned After Reassembly: Cause: Glove box retaining stops might not be fully engaged on both sides. Solution: Lower the glove box again completely. Inspect the stops and catches on the sides of the opening cavity. Lift the glove box back up, ensuring precise alignment, and apply firm upward pressure on both sides simultaneously while pushing inward near the stop locations.
• New Filter Feels Tight or Won't Fit: Cause: Incorrect filter size or misalignment within the slot. Solution: Double-check the part number and model year fitment of your new filter. Remove it and reinsert it, ensuring it slides straight back into the housing. Never force a filter that clearly doesn't match dimensions. Confirm airflow arrow direction hasn't caused binding.
• Filter Cover Won't Snap Back On: Cause: New filter might be preventing the cover from sitting flush against the housing mounting surface. Ensure the filter frame isn't overlapping where the cover seats. Sometimes one or more retaining tabs didn't fully release. Solution: Remove the filter and test fit the cover alone – it should snap on easily without the filter present. If it does, reinstall the filter making sure it's perfectly seated. If the cover still won't snap with the filter removed, inspect the cover for bent or broken tabs.

Important Considerations for Different Trim Levels

The fundamental cabin air filter location and access method (via glove box drops and cover release) are identical across all 2019 Jeep Cherokee trim levels: Latitude, Latitude Plus, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, and High Altitude. However, subtle variations exist:

• Battery Disconnect Impact: Higher trim models often feature more complex infotainment systems with navigation or integrated climate controls. Disconnecting the battery will likely reset these systems. Be prepared to re-enter settings or navigation favorites. It doesn't damage systems; it only resets volatile memory. Check your owner's manual for specific procedures like power window relearning after battery disconnect, common across all trims.
• Ambient Lighting Sensor Wiring (Potentially): In some higher trim models equipped with automatic climate control, a small ambient light/temperature sensor may be clipped to the top edge of the glove box housing interior. Take care when lowering the glove box to avoid stretching or pinching its wiring harness. This wiring is generally robust, but mindful handling prevents issues.
• Cabin Air Filter Variants: All trim levels use a physically identical cabin filter in size and basic location. However, trim level might influence which type filter came installed from the factory (e.g., basic vs. activated charcoal). When purchasing a replacement, the filter should be specified for the 2019 Cherokee; trim level won't change the part itself. Owners of higher trim models often prefer higher-end filters (like charcoal), but the choice is yours.

Recommended Replacement Frequency

While your 2019 Jeep Cherokee owner's manual provides factory recommendations (commonly every 15,000 to 25,000 miles), this is a minimum guideline. Actual replacement frequency depends heavily on your driving conditions:

• Severe Service Intervals: Reduce replacement frequency significantly if you frequently encounter:
  • Dusty or Dirty Environments: Unpaved roads, desert regions, construction zones, agricultural areas.
  • Heavy Stop-and-Go Traffic: This increases exposure to vehicle exhaust particles trapped on roadways.
  • High Pollen Areas: Especially problematic for allergy sufferers, necessitating more frequent changes in peak seasons.
  • Humid Climate: Promotes mold/mildew growth within a potentially damp filter and housing.
• Signs You Need a Filter Replacement NOW:
  • Noticeable Reduction in Airflow: From vents, especially at medium-to-high fan speeds compared to before.
  • Persistent Musty Odors: When the air conditioning or heating is first turned on. This signals trapped moisture and microbial growth.
  • Increased Dust Inside the Cabin: Noticeable dust on dashboards soon after cleaning can indicate a filter overwhelmed with particles.
  • Excessive Noise from Blower Fan: Whistling, straining, or increased vibration noise can mean a highly restricted filter forcing the motor to work harder.
• Practical Advice: A common recommendation beyond the manual is every 12-15 months or 12,000-15,000 miles, whichever comes first. Inspect it visually annually or when symptoms appear. Mark replacement dates on your calendar. Replacing it in early spring helps manage pollen season effectively.

Choosing the Right Replacement Filter

Selecting an appropriate replacement filter enhances performance beyond basic particle capture:

1. Confirm Fitment: Always start by ensuring the filter fits a 2019 Jeep Cherokee with your specific engine (2.4L Tigershark or 3.2L Pentastar V6). While cabin filter size is generally the same, verify the part number. Consult auto parts store databases (provide VIN if possible), cross-reference online sellers using your model details, or check your owner's manual. Many popular aftermarket brands make high-quality replacements.
2. Filter Types:
   • Basic Particle Filter: Standard white pleated paper/synthetic media. Effectively traps dust, pollen, and larger particles. The most economical option.
   • Activated Charcoal Filter: Similar pleated construction, but impregnated with activated carbon particles. This carbon absorbs gases and neutralizes odors like exhaust fumes, diesel smoke, and general pollution smells. Highly recommended for urban or highway driving. Usually costs slightly more but offers significant air quality improvement.
   • Premium Combination Filters: May incorporate both extensive activated charcoal layers and possibly baking soda or specialized pleat designs for higher particle holding capacity and enhanced odor elimination. Typically the most expensive option but might extend intervals slightly under normal conditions.
3. Brand Reputation: Consider well-known manufacturers with reputations for quality filtration and fit. Reputable brands test their products rigorously. Generic filters might lack consistent quality control regarding filter media density and frame durability.
4. Avoid Bargain Basement Filters: Extremely cheap filters might use low-density media that collapses easily, insufficient charcoal levels, or flimsy frames that bend during installation, compromising the seal. This defeats the purpose of replacing it.

Maintaining Clean Air Beyond the Filter

While the cabin air filter is the primary defender, a few habits help maintain interior air quality longer:

• Keep Cabin Clean: Regular vacuuming and dusting reduce particles that eventually get pulled into the system.
• Reduce Interior Odor Sources: Avoid leaving food wrappers or damp items in the cabin for extended periods.
• Run AC Regularly: Running the air conditioning periodically, even briefly in winter, helps keep the evaporator coil and drain lines clear by dehumidifying the system.
• Ventilation at Startup: When starting your Cherokee, briefly open windows to let stale air escape before closing them and switching to recirculation mode for cabin air filtration.
• Manage Musty Smells: If a musty smell persists shortly after changing the filter, it likely indicates mold/mildew deeper in the HVAC system evaporator core or ducts. Consult a professional for inspection and cleaning. Spraying aerosol cleaners blindly into vents is often ineffective and sometimes damaging.

FAQ

• Q: Do I really need to disconnect the battery for a simple filter change?
  • A: Strictly speaking, often not. However, the blower motor electrical connections are behind the glove box. Accidental contact, especially the first time accessing it, is possible. Disconnecting the battery eliminates any risk and is the safest approach. If you skip it, ensure the ignition key is removed from the vehicle and preferably kept out of reach during the job.
• Q: My filter housing looks wet inside or the old filter is damp. Is this normal?
  • A: Some moisture condensation near the HVAC housing is expected due to AC operation. However, significant dampness or standing water inside the filter housing is abnormal. This strongly suggests a clogged evaporator drain tube located under the vehicle near the firewall. A professional should clear this blockage to prevent water damage and mold growth.
• Q: Can a clogged cabin air filter affect my engine?
  • A: No, the cabin air filter only affects the air entering the passenger compartment. It is entirely separate from the engine air filter.
• Q: Can I clean the old filter instead of replacing it?
  • A: It's strongly discouraged. Cabin filters use fine media designed to capture tiny particles. Attempting to vacuum or blow out a filter typically redistributes embedded particles without fully restoring airflow capacity and risks damaging the delicate media. The cost-effectiveness is negligible compared to the performance and air quality benefits of a new filter. Replacement is the proper method.
• Q: How much does it cost to get this changed at a shop?
  • A: Costs vary significantly by location and shop. Typically, the labor charge for this simple task might range from $30to$75 or more, plus the cost of the filter itself ($15-$50). This makes a professional change potentially $50-$125 total. Doing it yourself costs only the price of the filter ($15-$50).

Pro Tips for Success

• First Timer? Watch a Short Video: Seeing the process visually before starting builds confidence. Search for "2019 Jeep Cherokee cabin air filter replacement". The glove box stops are sometimes easier to understand once seen.
• Photograph as You Go: Taking quick phone pictures before disassembly, especially showing how the filter cover tabs are engaged and any wiring in the area, is a great reference for reassembly.
• Work on a Bright Day: If possible, perform the task during daylight hours. Natural light significantly improves visibility under the dash compared to relying solely on a flashlight.
• Check the Replacement Immediately: Before installing the new filter, quickly compare its size to the slot and ensure the arrows clearly indicate airflow direction. Do this in bright light.
• Keep it Simple: This task takes most people under 15 minutes with minimal tools. Focusing on correctly locating the stops and filter cover orientation is key. Smooth, confident motions work best.