Our next-door neighbors have a 2013 Clubman S. They were smelling a distinct odor like rodent urine inside. I offered to check their cabin filter and sure enough, something had built a nest. I pulled the filter, cleaned the housing out and put in a new filter. All better now. However, the critters were getting into the cabin filter housing somehow and they were able to drag in a surprising amount of insulation, food, etc.

Do any of the experts here know where the cabin filter intake is and/or how to prevent this from happening again?

TIA!

 

the opening is behind the battery. the flap must be stuck or broken otherwise it closes automatically@!

 

Thanks so much for the reply. (I posted a "thank you" a couple of weeks ago but it never appeared for some reason.)

We located the cabin filter intake behind the battery but there wasn't a "flap" of any sort, just an opening. We're still not sure how the critter was dragging so much insulation into the area. The cowling cover was secure, etc.

There is a square opening next to the intake that appears to go straight down. Without putting the car on a lift I can't be sure if it's open under the chassis or not. I'll post a couple of photos for reference.

The owner's going to ask about it the next time he goes to the dealer.

Thanks again!

 

 

Is there a cover over the cabin air filter opening, or is it just as pictured? No wonder critters can get in.

 

It's been five years since I helped our neighbor and as far as I can recall there wasn't a cover of any sort. @Minitobe mentioned a "flap" in an earlier post, but as I replied there was no flap. It didn't look like there was a place for a flap, but someone that's more experienced may be able to answer your question, possibly post a photo.

Our neighbors sold that Mini and bought a new Clubman so I can't check anymore.

Or, if you have one, maybe you could look when you have time?

Sorry I couldn't be of more service and best of luck!

 

I have mine apart currently, and it looks like the picture...wide open. Shouldnt there, at least, be a screen? Guess I'll look for a parts breakdown.

 

No screen, its open like that