
Air filter is installed in a black square or rectangular box next to the engine. The air filter is a component that removes particulate impurities from the air inside the car. Its composition includes: 1. Air intake duct; 2. Air filter cover; 3. Air filter housing and filter element. The car air filter can effectively reduce the entry of pollutants into the car through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, preventing the inhalation of harmful pollutants to the body. The function of the air filter is to provide clean air for mechanical equipment to prevent the machinery from inhaling air with impurity particles during operation, which increases the chances of wear and damage.

I usually enjoy studying car structures, and the air filter is hidden in the most conspicuous spot in the engine bay! It's typically located in that square black plastic box at the front of the car, connected to a thick intake pipe. The placement is quite clever—it ensures the air entering the engine gets filtered first. Pop open the hood, and you’ll spot it right away, usually secured with a few clips or screws. If too much dust or debris builds up inside the box, the engine struggles like someone running with a mask on. Last week, while helping a neighbor replace his filter, I noticed his car’s was tucked behind the battery. Honestly, the location varies slightly by model, but you’ll find it within five minutes of lifting the hood. Regularly checking this component is crucial—it directly impacts the car’s power and fuel efficiency.

As someone who frequents repair shops, I've noticed that 90% of vehicles position their air filters in the upper section of the engine bay. They're housed in plastic casings like thick books, adjacent to the intake pipe opening. The elevated placement prevents ingestion of ground-level dust and debris—a sensible design. For DIY location: turn off the engine, open the hood, and look for a square/rectangular box near the windshield base, often marked 'AIR'. Having disassembled dozens of models, I find filter housings typically secured by four clips that snap open easily. Replace the pleated paper element when it's clogged with dust—otherwise you'll experience sluggish throttle response. Once found one oddly positioned beneath wipers on an off-roader, but the filtration principle remains unchanged.

After ten years of driving, I've summarized that finding the air filter is actually quite simple. It's located under the hood, and in most cars, it's installed near the front, resembling a plastic box with tubes. The plastic casing feels slightly warm because it filters the freshly inhaled air. Depending on the car model, it might be on the left or right side, but it's never hidden behind the engine. Last month during maintenance, the mechanic taught me: in modern cars, it's often near the battery, while in older cars, it's closer to the cooling fan. When replacing it yourself, be careful not to break the clips, and install the new filter with the fleecy side facing up. If you can't find it, don't force it; it's more convenient to let professionals handle it during maintenance.


