Not sure how to replace your car filter? Not a problem. Replacing your car air filter isn’t too difficult to do and it could save you money, in addition to making sure your car is running as smoothly as possible.
Step 1: Get the timing right
There are a few things to look for if you suspect your car air filter is dirty. That includes the occasional sputtering or coughing sound and getting noticeably less gas mileage. But ideally, you want to make sure you change your air filter before you start to notice these signs. The best way to do this is to establish a schedule. You can set repeat reminders on your phone to help you out.
The frequency at which an air filter needs to be changed might depend on the type of car you have, and your driving conditions. Here are some loose recommendations from some top automakers. Keep in mind that many dealers recommend a dealer check-up every 15,000 miles or so to make sure that everything is in good working condition.
| Make/Condition | Miles |
| Chevrolet | 45,000 |
| Ford | 30,000 |
| Hyundai | 30,000 |
| Honda | 30,000 |
| Heavy traffic in high heat | 15,000 |
| Off-road driving (dirt roads) | 15,000 |
Step 2: Choose the right filter
You can purchase either disposable or reusable air filters. If you’re concerned about how to recycle car air filters, it’s definitely worth considering the purchase of a reusable one. A reusable air filter will cost more money up front, but if you follow tips on how to clean an air filter you could save money in the long run—and help save the planet.
If you have no desire to clean your air filter, though, a disposable filter could work just as well, as long as you keep up with it regularly. Both will achieve about the same gas mileage.
Step 3: Find the right spot
Once you’ve done your homework, it’s time to get to work. Before you start, make sure your car is parked in a safe place on a flat surface. Then open your hood and lock it in place.
Step 4: Locate the air filter under your hood
Most air filters are protected by a rectangular-shaped box that’s mostly referred to as the cold air collector box. You should find this box somewhere near the front of the engine compartment. Most boxes are held together by clamps that can be undone by hand, although in some cases you may need a screwdriver. Before you remove the filter, if this is your first time installing one, make sure to take note of how the current one has been installed. You’ll want to install the new filter to look the same.
Step 5: Remove the old car air filter
Grab hold of the car air filter and remove it. It should come out without any resistance. Be sure to dust away any surrounding debris. If your filter is not reusable, you should be able to dispose of it in the garbage. Most landfills accept used car air filters.
Step 6: Install the new filter
Install the new air filter, replacing it in the same direction that you found the original one. Then reclamp the air collector box. Make sure you haven’t left any tools or rags behind before you release the hood and close it again.
Step 7: Mark your calendar
With your new filter in place, now is the time to mark your calendar. You can set up reminders on your phone that will repeat every year or every few months, depending on how often you drive your car. If you are unsure, you can plan to check your car every 15,000 miles or so (check this on your odometer), and only replace your filter when it looks like it’s time.
And that’s it. Keeping a clean car air filter is important. A dirty filter can impact the performance of your car’s engine, interfere with gas mileage, and even lead to more serious problems if you go too long without addressing the problem. Luckily, changing an air filter on your own can be a simple task. And if you buy a reusable filter, you won’t worry about having to purchase a new one every time. Just rinse, dry, and repeat.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.