The engine air cleaner/filter is in the engine compartment on the driver side of the vehicle, near the front. See Engine Compartment Overview for more information on location.

Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the Maintenance II intervals and replace it at the first oil change after each 50,000 mile (80 000 km) interval. See Scheduled Maintenance for more information. If you are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change.

To inspect the air cleaner/filter, remove the filter from the vehicle and lightly shake the filter to release loose dust and dirt. If the filter remains caked with dirt, a new filter is required.

To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter:

1. Turn the ignition off.



2. Remove the side cover by pulling up on the front of the cover.



3. Disconnect the electrical connector from the air box.
4. Loosen the screw on the clamp holding the air outlet duct in place. Do not remove the clamp. Move the duct aside.
5. Remove the hose from the air cleaner housing mounting arm. Move the hose aside.



6. Remove the three air cleaner housing cover screws.



7. Pivot the air cleaner housing cover and remove the cover from the air cleaner housing.



8. Remove the air cleaner filter from the air cleaner housing.

1. Install the air cleaner into the air cleaner housing. The outer air cleaner filter seal must be fitted properly in the air cleaner housing.
2. Align the air cleaner housing cover tabs to the air cleaner housing.
3. Install the air cleaner housing cover.
4. Install the air cleaner housing cover screws.
5. Install the hose to the air cleaner housing mounting arm. The hose must be routed correctly.
6. Install the air cleaner outlet duct to the air cleaner housing.
7. Tighten the air cleaner outlet duct screw clamp.
8. Attach the electrical connector to the air box.
9. Reinstall the side cover.

Caution: Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter off can cause you or others to be burned. The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps to stop flames if the engine backfires. If it is not there and the engine backfires, you could be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be careful working on the engine with the air cleaner/filter off.

Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire can cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can easily get into the engine, which will damage it. Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when you are driving.