Where is the car air filter located?
3 Answers
The car air filter is located under the hood, connected to the engine side via pipes. Some car air filters are cylindrical in shape, hence also called air filter cartridges. The car air filter is installed in front of the carburetor or intake pipe, serving to filter out dust and particulate matter from the air, ensuring the engine receives sufficient clean and dry air. Steps to replace a car air filter: 1. Open the hood to locate the air filter housing - some housings are secured with screws (can be removed with a screwdriver) while others have clips (can be opened directly); 2. Remove the old air filter and clean the housing, wiping both inside and outside with a clean cloth; 3. Install the new air filter, paying attention to its correct orientation when placing it back; 4. Reattach the filter housing cover securely.
I just changed the air filter myself, and its location is actually quite obvious. Open the engine hood, and it's usually inside that square plastic box next to the engine. Most cars are designed reasonably well—there's a clip or screw on top of the box, and once you loosen it, you can lift the lid and take it out directly. Some models hide it near the battery, requiring you to remove a panel first. Remember to take a photo before replacing it, so you don’t forget the orientation. This thing is really important—if you don’t change it, the engine will suck in dust, leading to poor fuel efficiency and reduced power. I check it every 10,000 kilometers, and now buying a filter online costs only 20-30 yuan, saving more than half compared to going to a repair shop. Before starting, make sure the engine is off, and wearing gloves is safer—the box gaps can hide dust and insect eggs.
Pop open your hood to locate the air filter housing. It's typically a black plastic box positioned above the engine near the front grille, connected to that thick intake tube. In some vehicles like Japanese models, it's on the front-left side, while German cars may have it centered. The housing cover has just a few metal clips - press and flip to open. Remember to disconnect the battery's negative terminal first to avoid accidental electrical contact. Ensure the filter is fully seated in its slot; installing it backward can restrict airflow. Check it every six months or 8,000 km (more frequently in dusty areas). Worn rubber seals along the filter box edges may leak debris, so inspect the sealing integrity for added safety.
