10 minutes

Engine air filter

The engine filter sits in a plastic air box on top of or beside the engine. A clogged one is a common cause of a flat-feeling throttle.

1. 1

   Open the hood and find the air box. It is the large housing with a lid held by metal clips or a few screws.

2. 2

   Release the clips and lift the lid. Note which face of the filter points up.

3. 3

   Lift the old filter out. Wipe loose leaves out of the box. Don’t spray solvent into the intake tube.

4. 4

   Set the new filter in the same way. It should sit flat, with the seal touching the box all the way around.

5. 5

   Close the lid and fasten every clip. A loose lid whistles and lets unfiltered air in.

Some newer cars use a cartridge that slides out the side of the box. The idea is the same: same orientation, seal seated, cover closed.

On Amazon, add your vehicle in the Confirm fit box at the top of the results, and check the “This fits your vehicle” badge before you buy.

Tools for this job