How to Change a Car Air Filter

Changing a car air filter is simple. If you can open the hood you can change the filter. These five steps on how to change a car air filter are trouble-free.

Step #1: Buy a New Filter

The first thing you need to do is buy a new air filter. Go to any auto parts store and discover the shelf with air filters. Find the parts catalog and turn to the make, model, and year of your car. Keep looking until you come across the column for air filters. You’ll easily find the needed part number for your car’s filter.

After finding the number, look on the shelf for the specific part with that number. The store will probably have two or three different brands, so be sure to check the prices. If needed, ask store personnel for assistance.

Step #2: Find the Air Filter Holder

Next you pop open the hood and locate the air filter holder. Typically this is a piece of round or square plastic with a lid. The lid is secured simply by snaps or screws and can be easily lifted off.

The air filter holder should be at the top of the engine on either side (location varies depending upon your car and engine type). If you are familiar with engines you will easily locate it. Otherwise, check the picture of the engine in your car manual.

Step #3: Open the Holder

Pull up the snaps or loosen the screws (depending on your car) and remove the lid.

Step #4: Remove the Old Air Filter and Install the New Air Filter

The filter is now visible. Grab the old filter and replace it with the new one, easily positioning it in the holder.

Step #5: Close the Holder

Put the lid back on and replace the snaps or tighten the screws. You are done!

Why It Is Important to Change the Filter

Now you know how to change a car air filter. Before discarding the old filter, look at how dirty it is. Your engine breathes the air that flows through that filter. You’ll feel good about installing a fresh filter, and so will your engine.

Tools & Parts Needed: a new filter and maybe a screwdriver
Frequency of Change: every 12,000 – 15,000 miles (check manual for specifics)