The Volkswagen Touareg (2002 to 2010) comes standard with an interior pollen filter, also known as a cabin air filter. A cabin air filter keeps pollen, dust and other particles from coming inside your vehicle's cabin (through the air vents). The Touareg's cabin air filter should be replaced every 15,000 to 20,000 miles depending on your driving habits (replace it more often if you drive in a dusty climate). The replacement procedure is the same for all models, including those equipped with the V10 diesel engine.
Inspect the area beneath the glove box to find the black cover panel. Grasp the front part of the panel (facing the seat) and pull it down to unhook it. Reach your hand in and unplug the connection for the passenger floorboard light. Set the panel to the side.
Remove the two bolts behind the cover with a 5.5 mm (1/4-inch) socket wrench. When the bolts are out, pull this panel off (this is the filter access door).
Grasp the filter and remove it carefully. Fully insert the replacement filter into the carrier with the arrow facing down. Position the filter access door back in place; hold it against the compartment with one hand; tighten the bolts with the other hand.
Re-attach the cover panel (rear part first). Reconnect the floorboard light, and then push the cover panel straight up to snap it back into place.
