See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the engine air cleaner/filter.

Inspect the air cleaner/filter at the Maintenance II intervals and replace it at the first oil change after each 50,000 mile (83 000 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 filter, do the following:

1. Loosen and remove both wing screws on the top of the engine air cleaner/filter cover.
2. Lift up the outboard side of the cover at an angle while pulling toward you. This is necessary due to the three tabs located on the rear of the cover.



3. Remove the engine air cleaner/filter element and any loose debris that may be found in the air cleaner base.
4. Inspect or replace the air filter element.

Follow these steps to reinstall the cover to the engine air cleaner/filter housing:

1. Align the three tabs located on the back of the cover with the three slots on the back of the housing.
2. Push the cover slightly down and towards the engine to engage the tabs in the slots and align the two wing screws.
3. Engage and tighten the two wing screws on the top of the engine air cleaner/filter housing 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.