Parts for your 2006 Mitsubishi Pajero-Cabin filter

2006 Mitsubishi Pajero cabin filter — fitted on late-2006 NS, not factory-fitted on early-2006 NP

Based on Mitsubishi technical literature and parts catalogues used in Australia and New Zealand — specifically the Mitsubishi Pajero NM/NP workshop manual (Group 55: Heater, Air Conditioner and Ventilation) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue — most 2006 Pajero vehicles built as NP series were not fitted with a cabin (pollen) filter from factory. Those manuals note the A/C air filter as “not provided” for NP, while the later NS series (released late 2006) lists a serviceable cabin filter element behind the glove box. That’s why some 2006s will have one and some won’t: it depends on whether the vehicle is an NP (no filter) or an NS (filter fitted).

Why wasn’t a cabin filter used on NP? Mitsubishi’s NP HVAC box relies on a coarse intake screen and the cowl grille to keep leaves and larger debris out, with the evaporator core acting as the next barrier. Omitting a fine filter reduced service cost and pressure drop across the blower in dusty conditions, a common design choice at the time. Mitsubishi still moulded a provision in the case on many NP units, so dealers and owners in dusty or allergy-prone regions could retrofit a filter if desired.

Owners can tell which setup they have by dropping the glove box: a blanked-off rectangular panel indicates no filter (NP), a removable cover with slide-out tray indicates a filter (NS). If it’s an NP and a cleaner cabin is the goal, a retrofit kit or aftermarket element can usually be fitted to the provisioned slot.

For NS builds with a cabin filter fitted, the part does an important job. It traps dust, pollen, road soot and fine debris before they lodge in the evaporator, helping airflow stay strong, reducing odours, and keeping the interior air easier on hayfever sufferers. Keeping it fresh also protects the A/C hardware by limiting muck buildup that causes musty smells and evaporator corrosion.

• Service interval: every 12 months or 15,000 km, sooner if frequently on gravel or red-dust roads, or during heavy pollen seasons.
• Symptoms it’s due: weak airflow at the vents, persistent musty odour, or a filter that looks grey/brown and clogged with fluff.
• Replacement basics: lower the glove box, unclip the filter cover, slide the old element out, vacuum the cavity, then install the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing the right way. Refit the cover and glove box.
• Good practice: choose a quality particulate or carbon-activated element, clear leaves from the cowl intake, run the fan briefly on fresh air after wet conditions to keep the evaporator dry.

If it’s an NP without a filter, a retrofit is a smart upgrade for city commutes and allergy season, for regular off-roaders, some owners prefer to skip a fine filter to keep maximum airflow and minimise frequent changes.

Popular questions

Does a 2006 Pajero have a cabin filter?
It depends on the series. Most early-2006 NP builds in AU/NZ were not factory-fitted with a cabin filter. Late-2006 NS models have a serviceable filter behind the glove box. Checking the glove box area for a removable filter cover is the quickest way to tell.

Where is the cabin filter on a Pajero NS?
It sits in a horizontal tray behind the glove box. Lower the glove box (release the damper and side tabs), unclip the small rectangular cover on the HVAC case, then slide the filter element out for inspection or replacement.

Can an NP (no-filter) 2006 Pajero be retrofitted?
Yes. Many NP HVAC cases have a moulded provision for a filter. Aftermarket kits are available and typically require removing a blanking panel and sliding in the new element. It’s a straightforward DIY for most owners and worthwhile if cleaner cabin air is a priority.