See Engine Compartment Overview for the location of the engine air cleaner/filter.
When to Inspect 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.
How to Inspect the Engine Air Cleaner/Filter
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, do the following:
- Loosen the two clips on the top of the engine air cleaner/filter housing and lift the filter cover tabs out of the housing.
- Push the filter cover housing toward the engine.
- Pull out the filter.
- Inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter.
- To reinstall the cover, position the tabs through the slots on the housing. A notch on the sides of the filter cover will indicate the correct engagement. Reinstall the two clips on the top of the housing when you are finished.
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.
