The engine air filter plays a vital role in protecting your engine as it stops various debris particles from entering and causing damage. As debris adds up with every mile traveled, the air filter will reach its maximum dirt absorption capacity at some point. When this happens, the air flow resistance rises and affects the engine’s performance. So, it is important to replace the air filter at your vehicle’s specified maintenance interval. However, you may need to change your air filter sooner depending on your driving conditions.
This is a very easy DIY that even a beginner can do. It will also save you a lot of money versus going to a dealership. For an overview of how to perform this DIY procedure, check out the tutorial above from RandomCar. More detailed instructions can be found below.
Air box hose clamp: 7.5 ft-lbs (or just hand tighten)
Air box screws: Hand tighten
Step 1: Prepare your vehicle and work area
- Ensure engine is cold, so you don’t burn yourself.
- Put on eye protection and gloves.
- Gather parts and tools.
- Open engine cover.
Step 2: Remove the engine air box
- Unbolt the air box using 13mm socket.
- Loosen the hose clamp on intake tube with flat head screwdriver.
- Unplug the mass air flow (MAF) sensor by depressing a plastic tab and pulling the sensor out.
- Remove the MAF sensor wiring harness from the plastic loop connector on the air box.
- Remove the air box from the engine bay by carefully rotating it counterclockwise and pulling it out.
Step 3: Replace the engine air filter
- Open the engine air box by removing the Phillips screws surrounding the perimeter.
- Remove the old engine air filter and install the new one.
- Ensure the new air filter is seated properly.
- Close the engine air box and hand tighten the Phillips screws.
Step 4: Reinstall everything in reverse
- Reinstall the air box in the exact same fashion.
- Torque the air box hose clamp to 7.5 ft-lbs or just snuggly tighten it by hand.
- Clean up your work area and put away your tools.
- You’re all done!
