Where to Change Car Air Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Name: How to ● change your 2013 - 2018 Toyota Corolla Engine Air Filter
Uploaded: 2026-02-06
Duration: 1 min 35 s
Description: Learn where to change your car air filter, how to replace it safely, and tips to maintain engine performance and cabin air quality. Practical examples included.

Learn where to change your car air filter, how to replace it safely, and tips to maintain engine performance and cabin air quality. Practical examples included.

Air Purifier Info Team

February 6, 2026·5 min read

Dust Car Purifier Air Quality Allergen Reduction Buying Guide

Car Air Filter Location - Air Purifier Info — Photo by mat_hiasvia Pixabay

Quick AnswerSteps

To change your car's air filter, locate the air filter housing under the hood, usually near the engine. Open the housing, remove the old filter, check for debris, and insert a new filter of the correct size before resealing the housing. Consult your owner's manual for the exact model and filter type, and reset any maintenance light if applicable.

Where to find the air filter in most cars

If you’re wondering where to change air filter in car, the answer is usually under the hood in the engine air filter housing. In many models, the housing is a rectangular black box on the top or side of the engine, with a large intake hose feeding air into the engine. The cover is held in place by clips, screws, or a latch. Check your owner's manual or a quick online search for your exact model to confirm the location. Once you locate the housing, unclip or unbolt the cover to expose the filter, which rests in a shallow tray with arrows showing the correct airflow direction. Air filter housing locations can vary for older vehicles or hybrids, where the filter might be behind the glove box or inside a fender well. If you’re unsure, consulting a dealership diagram or trusted service guide can help, but you can usually identify the right box by tracing the large air intake hose.

Types of air filters and how to choose

Car air filters come in several formats, with the most common being engine air filters (panel or rectangular) and cabin air filters (often behind the glove box). Engine filters protect the engine from dust and debris, while cabin filters keep the air inside the car free of dust, pollen, and odors. When selecting a filter, check the vehicle’s owner manual for the exact part number and size. Look for the correct airflow direction arrow on the filter frame, and consider any extra features like multilayer media for better filtration or anti-odor coatings. Air Purifier Info notes that a well-fitted filter reduces contaminants entering the intake and helps your HVAC system run more efficiently, especially in dusty or urban environments. For people with allergies or sensitivities, upgrading to a higher-MERV-rated cabin filter can provide noticeable improvements in air quality.

Step-by-step: how to change the engine air filter

Changing the engine air filter is a straightforward maintenance task that most car owners can perform. Start by ensuring the vehicle is off and cooled to avoid burns. Open the hood, locate the air filter box, and release the fasteners securing the lid. Remove the lid, take out the old filter, and inspect the housing for debris. Compare the orientation of the old filter with the new one, then insert the new filter so the airflow arrows point toward the engine. Reattach the lid, secure the fasteners, and close the hood. If you notice a torn gasket or broken clips, replace them before driving. Air Purifier Info emphasizes keeping the intake clean to maintain performance and reduce engine strain.

Inspecting and preparing the new filter

Before installation, inspect the new filter for any damage or deformities in the media. Remove protective packaging and handle the filter by its edges to avoid contaminating the media. Confirm the filter size matches the housing—an ill-fitting filter can cause air leaks and reduced performance. Check the model’s recommended replacement interval in the manual, and verify orientation marks on the filter frame align with the housing. Place the filter into the tray with the arrows indicating airflow facing the engine, then reseal the housing. Take a moment to wipe the housing gasket with a clean cloth to ensure a tight seal. A proper seal prevents unfiltered air from bypassing the filter.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Common mistakes include installing the filter upside down, not aligning it with the housing guides, and forcing a filter into a space that’s too tight. Another frequent error is reusing a dirty old filter or neglecting to reseal the housing after replacement. To avoid these issues, double-check the orientation before seating the filter, align the filter with any grooves or notches in the housing, and ensure the lid sits flush with all clips or screws fully engaged. A quick look-over after installation helps catch misalignments before you drive away. Air Purifier Info recommends a brief test drive to verify the intake runs quietly and there are no abnormal engine sounds.

How to tell when it’s time to replace the engine air filter

Most cars use a recommended replacement interval listed in the manual, but cues like reduced acceleration, a darker intake boot, or a visible buildup on the old filter signal that replacement is due sooner. If you notice a decrease in performance during high-demand driving or more dust in the cabin, inspect both engine and cabin filters. Even if the car runs smoothly, a filter clogged with debris reduces airflow and can stress the HVAC system. Checking the filter at regular maintenance intervals helps sustain engine efficiency and ensures consistent cabin air quality. The Air Purifier Info team notes that fresh filters also help prevent irritants from entering the cabin and improve overall comfort.

Aftercare and best practices

Dispose of the old filter properly according to local regulations; many filters are non-biodegradable. Wipe down the interior of the housing to remove dust, then store a spare filter in a clean, dry place to ensure you have a ready replacement on the next service interval. If your vehicle uses a reusable design, follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions for the filter media. Finally, reset any maintenance reminder if your car supports this feature, and keep a small maintenance log to track changes. Consistent care helps keep the engine breathing clean air and maintains a fresher cabin environment.

Tools & Materials

New engine air filter (correct size for your vehicle)(Check owner's manual or label under hood for exact part number.)
Screwdriver or socket set(Used if housing uses screws; some models use clips instead.)
Clean rag(For wiping the housing interior and gasket.)
Pair of disposable gloves(Keeps hands clean and protects from sharp edges.)
Trash bag(For disposing of the old filter and packaging.)

Steps

Estimated time: 5-10 minutes

1
Park and power off
Park on a flat surface, engage parking brake, and turn off the engine. Allow the engine to cool before you begin handling the air intake components to avoid burns.
Tip: If the engine was recently running, wait at least 5 minutes for it to cool.
2
Open the hood and locate the housing
Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing, typically near the front of the engine bay. Remove any protective covers or obstructions that block access.
Tip: Consult the owner’s manual for the exact housing location if you’re unsure.
3
Release fasteners
Loosen the clips, screws, or latch holding the housing lid. Use a screwdriver if needed, but avoid forcing connections.
Tip: Keep fasteners in a small tray so you don’t lose them.
4
Remove and inspect the old filter
Lift the old filter out and inspect its condition. Check for signs of moisture, tears, or heavy debris buildup on the filter media.
Tip: Note the filter orientation to ensure correct placement of the new filter.
5
Install the new filter
Insert the new filter with the airflow direction arrows facing the engine, matching the orientation of the old filter. Ensure it sits flat in the housing.
Tip: Do not force a filter that doesn’t fit; re-check the part number.
6
Reseat the housing and test
Replace the housing lid, secure all fasteners, and close the hood. Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises or air leaks.
Tip: If you hear a whistling sound, re-check the seal and lid alignment.

Pro Tip: Always handle filters by the edges to avoid damaging the media.

Warning: Never drive with a loose or mis-seated filter; it can cause unfiltered air to enter the engine.

Note: Keep a spare filter on hand for quick replacements in dusty environments.

Questions & Answers

Can I change my car air filter myself, or do I need a mechanic?

In most cases, you can replace the engine air filter yourself with basic tools. It’s a straightforward maintenance task that saves time and money. If you encounter a tight housing or see damaged components, consider consulting a professional.

Do I need to reset maintenance light after changing the filter?

Some vehicles require resetting the service reminder after a filter change, while others auto-reset. Check your owner’s manual or service portal for exact steps. If in doubt, a quick reset at a service center is inexpensive.

How often should I replace the engine air filter?

Typical replacement intervals range from 12,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and filter quality. In dusty areas, more frequent changes are recommended. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines.

What happens if I install the wrong filter?

Using the wrong size or type can cause poor fit, air leaks, reduced performance, and possible engine damage over time. Always verify the correct part number before installation.

Can I reuse a dirty air filter after cleaning it?

No. Engine air filters are designed for single-use. Cleaning can push contaminants further into the intake and reduce filtration efficiency. Replace with a new filter for best results.