2012 Ford F-150: Where is the Cabin Air Filter?

Danielle S
Feb 9, 2021

Blue 2012 Ford F-150 With White Background

Work trucks like the 2012 Ford F-150 tend to end up in some less-than-favorable conditions.

From dusty dirt roads to messy job sites, the cabin air filter in a pickup truck is often working overtime to keep the interior air as clean as possible.

So, where is the cabin air filter located on a 2012 Ford F-150?   

If yours is due for replacement, you’ll want to find out where to begin. The answer to this question is an easy one. The 2012 Ford F-150 (and all F-150 models from this generation) has no cabin air filter! 

Confused? We were, too. Read on to learn more.

What Role Does a Cabin Air Filter Play?

In vehicles equipped with a cabin air filter, these filters play an important role in removing pollutants like dust, pollen, and other debris from the air that cycles its way from your HVAC system into your vehicle’s cabin.

In addition to helping you breathe easier, a cabin air filter can prevent unwanted pests (like spiders and other critters) from making their way into your vehicle from the outside.

If your vehicle is equipped with an air filter, you’ll want to check your owner’s manual to find out exactly how often your manufacturer recommends changing it. In most cases, cabin air filters should be swapped out about once every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.

Where Can I Find the 2012 F-150’s Cabin Air Filter?

If you’re having trouble locating the cabin air filter on your 2012 Ford F-150, that’s because this model isn’t equipped with one! It is not known why this is the case, but all F-150 models from this generation were made without cabin air filters.

By the 2015 model year (which launched the next generation for the F-150), cabin air filters returned to this pickup truck. As is the case with most vehicles that have a cabin air filter, it is located in a compartment above the glove box.

While it is a bit strange that these models don’t have a cabin air filter, the good news is that this is one less maintenance task for you to worry about completing. If you want to have a cabin air filter added, your local Ford service center may be able to assist you.

Looking at a Used 2012 Ford F-150?

Ready to learn even more interesting facts about the 2012 Ford F-150? Check out its Vehicle History report today! This is also a great place to start if you’re thinking about purchasing a used model and want to check out reviews, specs and more.

avatar Danielle S
Danielle S. is a writer with more than 10 years of experience covering the automotive industry. She lives in Indiana ("The Crossroads of America") but enjoys road-tripping around the country whenever she gets the chance.
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