How To Change Your Car's Air Filter - AMSOIL Blog

How to Change the Air Filter in Your Car

Total Time: 15 minutes

Locate the air box

Pop the hood and locate the air-filter housing. It’s typically a black plastic box that sits adjacent to the engine. You should also see a large air-intake hose attached to the side that leads to the engine.

Remove the air-intake tube

On some vehicles, it helps to detach the air-intake hose from the air-filter housing to access the filter. Sometimes, however, you can remove the cover of the air-filter housing and fold it out of the way without removing the tube. If you need to remove the tube, simply loosen and slide the clamp off, then work the hose loose from the cover.

Open the air-filter housing

Note the type of fastener used to secure the cover on the air-filter housing. Some vehicles use clamps you can typically slide loose by hand. Some use screws or bolts. Remove the fasteners and set the housing cover aside.

Remove the old air filter

Pull the old air filter from the housing. If you see a lot of dirt and debris inside the pleats, it’s time to change the air filter. If it appears clean and you haven’t surpassed the manufacturer’s recommended service interval, you can probably reuse it. But, as long as you’ve come this far, it’s easier and better practice simply to change the air filter.

Vacuum air-filter housing

Before installing the new air filter, vacuum any debris from the housing with a shop vac. It’s also a good idea to inspect the housing for cracks or damaged fasteners. Such damage can create vacuum leaks that affect performance and possibly allow dirty air to enter the engine. If you notice issues, replace the housing.

Install the air filter and housing cover

Now, simply place the new filter inside the housing, making sure to orient it properly. Fasten the cover back on, taking care that it settles into place and fastens securely. Make sure the gasket around the filter isn’t pinched between the housing and the cover, which will create a vacuum leak and allow dirty air into the engine.