Parts for your 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Cabin filter

2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Cabin Filter: what it does and when to change it

Technical sources confirm the 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is fitted with a cabin (air conditioning) filter. The 2020 Eclipse Cross Owner’s Manual (AU/NZ) includes the “Air conditioning filter” as a maintenance item, Mitsubishi’s HVAC service manual (Group 55) details the “Clean Air Filter” located behind the glovebox, and dealer/parts catalogues list a dedicated in‑cabin filter for MY2020 Eclipse Cross. So yes—this model absolutely uses a cabin filter.

In everyday use, the cabin filter traps dust, pollen, soot and fine debris before air reaches the vents. That keeps the cabin air feeling fresh, helps with demisting on wet mornings, and protects the A/C evaporator from clogging up with grime that can cause odours. For Aussie and Kiwi conditions—think road dust, coastal salt, spring pollen and the occasional bushfire smoke—keeping this filter in good nick makes a noticeable difference to comfort and air quality.

For servicing, it’s smart to replace the cabin filter about every 12 months or 15,000–20,000 km, whichever comes first. Shorten the interval if you often drive on dusty roads, park under trees, or notice musty smells. Many owners line it up with their routine service so it’s sorted in one go.

• Signs it’s due: reduced airflow even on high fan, musty or damp odour after A/C use, increased window fogging, or a noisy blower.
• Location: behind the glovebox. The glovebox is lowered, a small access panel is unclipped, and the filter slides out. Always match the airflow arrow when installing the new one.

Choosing a filter: a standard particulate filter is fine for most drivers. Activated carbon filters help with odours and urban pollution. Either way, a quality, correctly sized filter prevents air bypass and keeps the HVAC performing as it should.

Handy tip: if you’ve had the filter out for a while or driven through heavy smoke or dust, run the fan on fresh air for a minute to flush the intake before fitting the new filter. Then enjoy cleaner air and a happier A/C system in your 2020 Eclipse Cross.

Popular questions

Where is the cabin filter on a 2020 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross?
It sits behind the glovebox. Lower the glovebox, unclip the small access cover on the HVAC housing and slide the filter cassette straight out. No special tools are usually needed. Refit with the airflow arrow pointing in the correct direction.

How often should the cabin filter be replaced in Australia or New Zealand?
Plan on every 12 months or about 15,000–20,000 km. Replace sooner if you drive on unsealed roads, in high pollen seasons, or after exposure to smoke and ash. If the fan feels weak or there’s a musty smell, don’t wait—swap it out.

Can it be upgraded to a carbon or HEPA-style filter?
Yes. Activated carbon filters help reduce odours and some gases, great for city commutes. Some aftermarket HEPA-style options capture finer particles. Just make sure the filter matches the Eclipse Cross housing and is installed with the airflow arrow correctly oriented.