We neglected to inspect, clean or replace it for over 65,000 miles.   To remedy the musty smelling air coming out of the A/C vents, I ordered a new cabin air filter online for $11.99.

The new cabin air filter is a TYC brand filter (part # 800006P) that replaces the OEM Toyota filter (part # 88568-02020).

To access the cabin air filter's housing, the glove box must be opened and removed.

The easiest way to detach the glove box is to first remove the screw that attaches the retaining arm to the right hand side of the glove box. (See picture # 12.)

A few other compatible replacement cabin air filters with their part numbers are as follows: Fram CF10133, Denso 453-2039, Cleenaire CAF10133, Wix 24873, K&N VF2003, Purolator C35491, Bosch P3754 and Toyota 88568-02020.

As you can see in the middle image in the row above, I pulled off the glove box with the retaining arm still attached.

To do the job correctly for this guide, I removing the retaining arm screw, re-attached the arm to the car, re-installed the glove box and started over again.

When both the right side and left side tabs are popped out of their tracks, the glove box will swing downwards.

Then the glove box can be completely removed by gently pulling the entire unit towards the rear of the car.

This will dislodge the semi-circle mounts on the bottom of the glove box that snap around the round pieces of plastic on the dash.

See picture # 25 and picture # 26 to see what I'm referring to.

The access door has a plastic tab or snap connector on each side.

To remove it, press the tabs inwards towards each other and then gently pull it off.

The cover should come off easily, so don't force it.

I recommend buying the TYC 800006P filter since it has excellent reviews on Amazon.

If you've had a problem with your A/C system smelling moldy or musty, try using the Fram CF10133 filter which has Arm & Hammer baking soda and carbon in it to help absorb odors.

The filter has arrows and the words "Air Flow" on it to help you orientate the filter in the correct position.

I used a small vacuum cleaner with a long nose attachment on it to suck out any leaves or debris that may have been left behind in the cabin air filter cavity.

The cabin air filter access cover snaps back into place.

Then you can swing the glove box upwards, screw in the retaining arm, and pop the tabs on either side.

If done correctly, the glove box should raise and lower in a controlled manner with smooth movements.

With the new filter installed, I immediately noticed that the air conditioning system blew air out with slightly greater force, the car seemed to cool down more quickly and the air no longer had a stale smell.

Be sure to record the filter change in your car's service records.

For more, check out my other 2003-2008 Toyota Corolla Repair & Maintenance Guides.

If you have a newer model check out my 2009-2013 Toyota Corolla Repair & Maintenance Guides.

For more, please take a look at these related links: Toyota Corolla Engine Oil Change Guide, Toyota Corolla Timing Chain Tensioner Replacement Guide, Toyota Corolla Headlight Bulbs Replacement Guide, Toyota Corolla Front Brake Pads Replacement Guide, K&N Air Filter Cleaning Guide, Buffing Old Faded Headlights Guide, Headlight or Tail Light Condensation Solution Guide, WeatherTech FloorLiner Review.