How to Replace Your Engine Air Filter

Difficulty: Beginner Time: 10–15 minutes

The engine air filter keeps dust and dirt out of your engine. When it gets clogged, the engine has to work harder, which can hurt acceleration and fuel economy.

It is one of the easiest jobs on a car: on most models it takes about 10 minutes and no tools, or just a screwdriver. Shops often charge several times the price of the filter to do it.

What you'll need

Step by step

1. 1

   Get the right filter

   Look up your year, make, model and engine at the parts store. Air filters come in many shapes, so match the new one to the old one before you leave.

2. 2

   Find the air box

   Open the hood and look for a large black plastic box connected to a wide tube that leads to the engine. That is the air filter housing.

3. 3

   Open the air box

   Release the metal clips, or remove the screws, that hold the lid. Lift the lid; you may not need to remove it completely.

4. 4

   Remove the old filter

   Lift out the old filter and note which way it sat. Hold it up to a light: if it is gray, dark, or you cannot see light through it, it was due.

5. 5

   Clean the box

   Wipe out leaves, dust and debris from inside the bottom of the box with a rag or vacuum. Do not push dirt into the tube that leads to the engine.

6. 6

   Install the new filter

   Set the new filter in the same way the old one sat, with the rubber edge seated evenly all around.

7. 7

   Close the box

   Put the lid back on and fasten all the clips or screws. Make sure it closes evenly with no gaps, so unfiltered air cannot get in.

Tips

• A common interval is about every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, but check your owner’s manual. Dusty roads and construction areas mean more often.
• Your car may also have a cabin air filter (for the air you breathe inside the car), which is a different part, usually behind the glove box.
• If a shop recommends a new filter, ask to see the old one. It only takes a few seconds to check.

Not sure that's the problem?

Answer a few simple questions about your car and GarageGuide's free troubleshooter will help you find the likely cause before you buy parts.

Try the free troubleshooter →

Frequently asked questions

How often should I change my engine air filter?

Many cars call for it about every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual, and check it more often if you drive on dusty or dirt roads.

What happens if I don’t change the air filter?

A clogged filter restricts air to the engine. You may notice weaker acceleration and slightly worse gas mileage. Very dirty filters can let dirt through over time.

Engine air filter vs. cabin air filter: what is the difference?

The engine air filter cleans air going into the engine and is under the hood. The cabin filter cleans the air you breathe inside the car and is usually behind the glove box.

Can I clean and reuse my air filter?

Standard paper filters should be replaced, not washed. Only filters sold as washable or reusable are meant to be cleaned, using their maker’s kit.

Related car problems

More how-to guides

Can't afford the repair? See free and low-cost car help in Dallas–Fort Worth.