Ever turned on your truck’s AC only to get hit with a musty smell or weak airflow? Your cabin air filter might be the culprit. For Peterbilt 579 owners, knowing where to find and how to replace this filter can save you time and money. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about your truck’s cabin air filter location and replacement process.
Where Is the Cabin Air Filter Located in a Peterbilt 579?
The Peterbilt 579 uses a dual-filter system for cabin air. Both filters are located on the passenger side of the cab and can be accessed from inside the vehicle. One filter handles fresh air intake while the other manages air recirculation.
Primary Filter Access Panel
The main cabin air filter sits behind a removable panel on the passenger side interior. Here’s how to find it:
- Look at the bottom of the passenger side interior wall
- You’ll spot an access panel secured with two screws
- This panel hides the primary cabin filter compartment
Secondary Filter Behind the Glove Box
The second filter (recirculation filter) is positioned behind and above the glove box, just above the blower motor assembly. This filter helps clean the air that’s already circulating inside your cab.
Tools Needed for Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Before starting, gather these items:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Replacement cabin air filter(s) – compatible part numbers include 24479, AF55839, or X1987001
- Clean cloth for wiping down the housing
- Flashlight (optional but helpful)
The good news? This job requires minimal tools and you don’t need to be a mechanic to handle it.
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide for the Primary Filter
Let’s replace that filter in under 10 minutes:
1. Access the Filter Housing
- Locate the access panel on the passenger side floor area
- Remove the two screws securing the panel
- Slide the panel upward and pull it out to reveal the filter compartment
2. Remove the Old Filter
- You’ll see the edge of the filter(s) inside the housing
- Pull the old filter straight out – don’t force it
- There may be two filters stacked in this housing
- Notice there’s a lever mechanism that needs to be pulled to one side for proper filter alignment
3. Install the New Filter
- Check the new filter for directional arrows indicating correct installation orientation
- Slide the new filter into place, making sure it seats properly against the housing seals
- The filter size is approximately 8 × 8 inches with a thickness of about 1.34 inches
- Make sure the filter is fully seated in its track
4. Secure the Access Panel
- Slide the access panel back into position
- Reinstall and tighten the two screws
- Verify the panel is secure and flush against the interior wall
Replacing the Recirculation Filter
The secondary filter requires a slightly different approach:
1. Access the Glove Box Area
- Open the glove box completely
- Some models require you to press tabs on either side to allow the glove box to drop down fully
- Look above and behind the glove box to spot the filter housing
2. Remove and Replace the Filter
- Pull the old filter straight out from its housing
- Insert the new filter, making sure it’s properly oriented and fully seated
- Ensure no gaps exist around the filter edges
3. Return the Glove Box to Position
- Push the glove box back up until it clicks into place
- Verify that it opens and closes normally
When to Replace Your Cabin Air Filters
Your Peterbilt 579’s cabin air filters should be changed:
- Every 12-15 months under normal driving conditions
- More frequently if you drive in dusty environments or construction sites
- When you notice reduced airflow from vents
- If you detect unusual odors when using the HVAC system
- When heating or cooling performance declines
Money-Saving Filter Maintenance Tips
Dealerships might charge up to $500 for a cabin air filter replacement service. Save that money with these tips:
- Buy quality filters from reputable sources like High Flow or Ampler Filters
- Some filters are reusable – they can be gently washed, thoroughly dried, and reinstalled
- Keep spare filters in your truck for quick changes when needed
- Check your filters every 3-4 months to monitor their condition
Common Filter Issues and Solutions
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Musty odor from vents | Dirty or moldy filter | Replace filter immediately and consider using an antibacterial spray in the housing |
| Weak airflow | Clogged filter restricting air | Replace filter and check for other vent blockages |
| Excessive dust in cab | Filter not properly seated or wrong size | Ensure correct filter and proper installation with no gaps |
| Allergies acting up while driving | Filter not filtering allergens effectively | Upgrade to a higher quality filter with better filtration rating |
Benefits of Regular Cabin Air Filter Replacement
Keeping fresh filters in your Peterbilt 579 provides several advantages:
- Cleaner air quality in your living/working space
- Reduced allergens and road dust in the cab
- Better HVAC system performance and efficiency
- Prevention of musty odors and potential mold growth
- Extended life of your blower motor (doesn’t have to work as hard)
The Right Replacement Filter for Your Peterbilt 579
Several aftermarket and OEM options are available for your truck:
- Peterbilt OEM part number X1987001 – direct factory replacement
- Aftermarket part number 24479 – widely available and compatible
- Baldwin part number AF55839 – known for quality filtration
When buying filters, check if you need both the fresh air and recirculation filters, as they may be sold separately or as a kit.
Preventative Maintenance Schedule
Incorporate cabin air filter checks into your regular maintenance routine:
- Every oil change: Visually inspect filters
- Every 12 months: Replace both cabin air filters
- Every 6 months: Clean reusable filters if you’re using that type
- Seasonal changes: Good times to remember to check filters
By staying on top of this simple maintenance task, you’ll breathe easier and keep your Peterbilt 579’s HVAC system running efficiently for years to come.
Remember, this 10-minute DIY job can save you hundreds in service fees while ensuring you’re breathing the cleanest possible air during those long hauls. Your lungs (and wallet) will thank you!
