Replacing the cabin air filter on a PT Cruiser is a relatively simple process involving removal of the cowl located in front of the windshield. The task can actually be accomplished with two tools. There is no predetermined replacement period for the cabin air filter. That responsibility is left to the owner. Replacement intervals are dependent on the climatic zone in which one lives, as well as the time of the year. The best method for determining a replacement period is to inspect the filter regularly at first, to determine the speed at which it becomes compromised.
Place the windshield wipers in the up position. To do this, place the ignition key in the "On" position and turn on the windshield wipers. When the wipers are in the up position, turn the key to the "Off" position.
Open the hood and remove the plastic cowl located in front of the windshield -- this is the black plastic vent that covers the windshield wiper motor. It is held secure by trim fasteners; each of these fasteners is similar to a button with a plastic screw pushed down in its center, which acts like a wedge to spread the fastener apart. Use a small screwdriver to pry the center screw's head up, then grip it with your fingers and pull the fastener out.
Remove the windshield washer bottle to access the filter directly behind it. Use a 10 mm socket driver and remove the one bolt on the passenger side and the two bolts on the driver's side. Move the bottle forward and to the side to unblock the cabin air filter grill. Pull the black grill off the air filter box and pull the air filter out.
Install a new air filter, then the grill. Move the washer bottle back into place, align the holes and install and tighten the bolts. Place the cowl in place and install the trim fasteners. Keep the head of the fastener up while pushing the lower portion in the hole. Once the lower portion is seated, press down on the head of the center screw to lock the fastener in place.
