Beginners Car Care: Changing Your Engine’s Air Filter
Author: Josh Date Posted:16 February 2023
Learning how to change your car's air filter is one of the simplest and least expensive–and most important– maintenance procedures you can perform for your car. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps of replacing vehicle air filters and you'll be prepared to handle this simple maintenance task yourself.
Why You Should Change Your Air Filter
Every car engine, whether it runs on petrol or diesel, needs a good supply of air to perform. Both fuels have to mix with oxygen to be at their operational best. Air filters help stop dirt, dust, and other contaminants in the air from entering your engine and causing damage. Essentially, they increase fuel efficiency, improve acceleration, and prolong engine life.
Over 19,000 to 24,000 kilometres though, air filters can become dirty because of the built-up gunk accumulated over time. This prevents the air filter from doing its job, making it work harder and, therefore, using more fuel.
Thankfully, you can get your engine back to its optimal health by replacing its air filter. It doesn’t take long and saves you hundreds of dollars from a trip to the mechanic.
What You’ll Need
Changing an air filter is a basic job and you’ll only need a few tools
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A screwdriver
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A wrench
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A small brush or rag
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A new air filter
Since air filters come in different shapes and are made from different materials, choosing the right air filter is key. There are flat (panel-like), conical, round, or radial air filters, with flexible or rigid frames. Similarly, there are paper, foam, and synthetic filters.
To determine the compatibility of the engine air filter for your vehicle, you can refer to your owner's manual or use the Ryco catalogue. Regardless of type, we recommend using Ryco air filters, designed for high performance under Australian conditions.
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How to Change a Car’s Air Filter
Before you begin, remember to first park your car in the shade, then let the engine cool for a few minutes. Pop up the hood and securely prop it up. Now that everything is good to go, gather your tools and start the air filter swap process. Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Locate and open the airbox
Your engine or filter is easy to locate. The air filter housing is usually on top of the engine, secured by clips, screws, or clamps. But you can always check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.
Many air boxes can easily be opened by hand. But some would also require some basic tools. To open it, release the retaining clips by using a screwdriver to pop the screws free.
Step 2: Remove the old air filter
Once you’ve opened the housing, lift the lid of the airbox and remove the old air filter by sliding it out carefully. If it gets stuck, gently wiggle it to loosen. Take note of how the old air filter is positioned as you remove it.
Step 3: Clean the air filter housing
Before installing the new air filter, clean the housing using a small brush or clean rag. Then use a vacuum to suck out all the remaining dirt and debris.
Step 4: Install the new air filter
Place the new air filter in the housing, ensuring it’s securely seated and facing the correct direction. Some filters have an arrow indicating airflow direction.
Remember to secure it well as you replace the airbox lid, replacing any clips, screws, or clamps. Once you’ve sealed it up, you're all done!
Step 5: Reconnect the Air Filter Housing
Take the new air filter and slide it into place. Ensure that it is securely seated in the housing and that it is facing the correct direction. Some air filters may have an arrow indicating the direction of airflow.
Step 6: Reassemble the Air Filter Housing
Once the new air filter is in place, you can reassemble the air filter housing. Replace any clips, screws, or clamps that you removed and ensure that the housing is securely fastened.
Enjoy Many Trouble-Free Miles of Clean Air
Congratulations! You now know how to change your engine air filter.
Replacing your air filters regularly is the single most important act of maintenance you can perform for your engine. It's the first line of defence against contaminants, protecting your engine while allowing the right amount of air to flow through.
If you encounter any issues, consult your vehicle owner’s manual or a professional mechanic. For expert advice on all things automotive, contact our specialists at 1300 791 058.
