2003 Subaru Outback Logo
Posted on Oct 31, 2014
Answered by a Fixya Expert

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How do I remove the screw for the side trim, when changing the cabin air filter in a 2003 Subaru outback?

Reposting this as a question in regards to this post: http://www.fixya.com/cars/t7030463-change_cabin_air_filter_in_2003_subaru I'm trying to remove the side trim to the left of the glove box so I can get to the air filter. The screw in the back that holds the trim in place can easily be turned with a screwdrivter, but doesn't come out. It's not screwed in flush; there is a gap of maybe 1/2 or 1 mm between the head of the screw and the plastic side trim. I can get my fingers to the back and can feel the nut or anchor turning with the screw, but the space is too tight for me to get even a small pair of needle nosed pliers in there with a good grip. Can someone advise on how to remove this? Can I use WD40 or machine oil on the screw? (is there anything in the back that can be damaged by these?) I'm thinking if there's no better way maybe I can cut off the screw and replace it with a new one; does anyone know the size or part number for it? Any other suggestions?

1 Answer

Kevin Blair

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  • Subaru Expert 196 Answers
  • Posted on Nov 01, 2014
Kevin Blair
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The plastic screw/clips which is at the front of floor console trim can be pried out and reused the screw part is to make it reusable
# 57333AA090GE Beige or OA Gray

  • 2 more comments 
  • pub2458 Nov 04, 2014

    Thanks, Kevin. The part number is great to have in case I need a replacement and also I googled it to take a look. When you say pry out, should I I be able to get underneath the bottom/anchoring piece and just lift it up with a little force, then? It feels like it sticks out in the back, and I'm concerned it will tear a larger hole. I haven't managed to unscrew it -- I applied 3-in-1 yesterday and will give it another try with homemade (hacked) mini wood pliers to see if I can get a hold on the back part that is turning. But if I can just pop the whole thing out, that might be easier.

  • pub2458 Nov 04, 2014

    Oh, is it something like this I need?

  • pub2458 Nov 04, 2014

    http://www.amazon.com/Lisle-35260-Plasti...

  • pub2458 Nov 04, 2014

    I got the screw out by using a clothespin to hold the part in the back where I couldn't reach with my pliers. Unding the structure of the screw/clipped was super helpful. Thanks!

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4 Related Answers

Anonymous

  • 25 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 25, 2009

SOURCE: cabin air filter on a 2006 subaru outback limited

The cabin air filter is behind the glove box. The first thing you need to do is empty the glove box. (2) you need to remove the side panel that runs along the side of the shifter, it is a long panel and has on clip near the firewall, the clip will have a phillips head on it, just back it out and remove this panel. Then remove all the bolts (10MM) holding the glove box on, The glove box is will stay up because it has two hings that run into the sides of dash. All you need to do is squeeze the glove box untill it pops out and the glove box will be out. There is no need to unhook the wiring for the light bulb just let the glove box hang on the floor. Now you will see a black cover that is held on by 4 small metal clips, remove these and pull the cabin air filter out. when you reinstall the new one, make sure you put it in with the air flow arrows pointed in the right direction or else you will cause blockage. reinstall and enjoy your new heppa filter

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Anonymous

  • 25 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 26, 2009

SOURCE: 2005 subaru outback cabin air filter install

Yes the o5 outback has a cabin air filter and it is located behind the glove box. You have to remove the glove box, once you get it out of the way you will need to remove the 4 metal clips that hold it in place and make sure you put the filters in with the arrows pointing in the right direction for air flow. Other wise you will have restriction through the vents

Anonymous

  • 176 Answers
  • Posted on Mar 29, 2011

SOURCE: How to change cabin air filter in a 2003 Subaru

Your cabin filter is located behind the glove box.
First you will need to remove the glove box. Open the glove box, and on the left and right side on the inside, there will be a retainer that you will need to pull out. This will cause your glove box to fall forward, exposing all of the screws. Unscrew the 10 screws around the outer edge of the glove box, and pull the unit down and out of your way.
After the glove box is removed, you will be able to see the HVAC casing. You will see the access door to the cabin filter, held in with some clips. Disconnect the resistor connector that is in your way, then remove the four clips in order to access the filters.
Once you pull the filters out, you can install the new ones in reverse order. Make sure that the arrows on the filters are pointing up, and that the door is sealed properly when you close it back up.
Good luck and please let me know if I may further assist you. -TXTEXAN

Anonymous

  • 176 Answers
  • Posted on Mar 29, 2011

SOURCE: How do you change the cabin filter on a 2001

Once your glove box is removed and out of the vehicle, you will see the HVAC casing. The access panel held in with 4 clips is what your cabin filter hides behind.
Please let me know if I may further assist you. -TXTEXAN

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Your cabin filter is located behind the glove box.
First you will need to remove the glove box. Open the glove box, and on the left and right side on the inside, there will be a retainer that you will need to pull out. This will cause your glove box to fall forward, exposing all of the screws. Unscrew the 10 screws around the outer edge of the glove box, and pull the unit down and out of your way.
After the glove box is removed, you will be able to see the HVAC casing. You will see the access door to the cabin filter, held in with some clips. Disconnect the resistor connector that is in your way, then remove the four clips in order to access the filters.
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Good luck and please let me know if I may further assist you. -TXTEXAN
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Your cabin filter is hiding above/behind your glove box. In order to access the cabin filter, first remove the passenger instrument panel side cover. Next, open your glove box and there should be one clip on the left and right side of the glove box... remove those clips as well as the tether that is holding the glove box up. After the glove box falls forward, remove the upper storage box. You should now see the cabin filter access panel, which is held in with 5 or 6 screws. Remove the screws, pull the access panel out, and you should see the cabin filter. Reverse instructions for installation.
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The cabin air filter is behind the glove box. The first thing you need to do is empty the glove box. (2) you need to remove the side panel that runs along the side of the shifter, it is a long panel and has on clip near the firewall, the clip will have a phillips head on it, just back it out and remove this panel. Then remove all the bolts (10MM) holding the glove box on, The glove box is will stay up because it has two hings that run into the sides of dash. All you need to do is squeeze the glove box untill it pops out and the glove box will be out. There is no need to unhook the wiring for the light bulb just let the glove box hang on the floor. Now you will see a black cover that is held on by 4 small metal clips, remove these and pull the cabin air filter out. when you reinstall the new one, make sure you put it in with the air flow arrows pointed in the right direction or else you will cause blockage. reinstall and enjoy your new heppa filter
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