How to Replace the Air Filter Element?
4 Answers
Replacing the air filter element involves the following steps: 1. Open the car's engine hood and locate the air filter box. Some boxes are secured with screws, while others use clips. For those with screws, use a screwdriver to open them. 2. For boxes secured with clips, simply open the clips and remove the old filter element from the box. To prevent dust and debris from falling in, block the intake pipe with a clean towel. 3. Install the new air filter element, then fasten the clips or use a screwdriver to tighten the air filter box cover. The air filter element is used to filter the air entering the engine, acting as the engine's mask. It ensures that the air drawn into the engine is clean, which is beneficial for the engine's health. The air filter element is a wear-and-tear part that needs to be replaced regularly.
Changing the air filter yourself is really not difficult, and the whole process takes only about ten minutes. First, let the engine cool down after turning it off to avoid burning yourself on hot components. In the engine bay, there's a rectangular black box—that's the home of the air filter. Once located, check whether it's secured with clips or screws—mine uses clips, which open with a gentle pry. When removing the old filter, don’t apply too much force to avoid breaking it and letting debris fall into the engine. Sweep out any dust inside the box, and when inserting the new filter, make sure the arrow points toward the engine—installing it backward affects airflow. Seal the cover properly, and you're done. It's recommended to replace it every 15,000 km, though in less dusty urban areas, you can stretch it to 20,000 km. Buying the filter yourself costs just 30-50 yuan, saving you the 100-200 yuan you'd spend at a 4S shop, plus you get some hands-on practice—a win-win.
When replacing the air filter, safety must be the top priority. Wait for the engine to cool down after turning off the vehicle to prevent burns. Locate the air filter housing in the engine bay, usually made of plastic, and be careful not to drop screws or clips into tight spaces when opening it. After removing the old filter, check if the housing is dirty and clean any dust with a soft cloth. Ensure the new filter matches the correct model number and that the arrow indicating airflow direction is properly aligned. Installing it backward can cause restricted airflow and engine vibration. Make sure the housing cover is tightly sealed to prevent unfiltered air from damaging the engine. Use only basic tools like a screwdriver and avoid tampering with other components. While DIY replacement saves money and time, inexperienced individuals should visit a professional shop to avoid costly mistakes. Regular replacement prevents dust buildup and maintains engine performance.
Replacing the air filter yourself can save a lot of money. I buy a new filter online for 20-30 yuan that fits my car model, then locate the black box in the engine compartment, open the lid, and swap it out. No professional tools are needed—it's simple and quick, taking just ten minutes. Compared to paying over 100 yuan for labor at a repair shop, it's not worth it. Regularly changing the filter ensures the engine breathes fresh air, improving fuel efficiency. It's recommended to check every 15,000 kilometers, and replace more frequently in dusty areas to extend engine life.
