Notice: If you spray water into the engine air cleaner/filter intake and water enters the engine air cleaner/filter housing, as shown in the illustration, you could damage your vehicle's engine. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Do not spray water into the engine air cleaner/filter intake and/or housing.
The engine air cleaner/filter assembly is located in the engine compartment on the passenger's side of the vehicle. See Engine Compartment Overview for more information on location.
When to Inspect
Inspect the air cleaner/filter every 15,000 miles (25 000 km) and replace every 100,000 miles (160 000 km). If you are driving in dusty/dirty conditions, inspect the filter at each engine oil change and change sooner if necessary.
How to Inspect
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:
- Loosen the screws on the cover.
- Lift the cover upward and set it aside.
- Pull the air cleaner/filter up and out from the air cleaner housing. Care should be taken to dislodge as little dirt as possible.
- Clean the filter sealing surface and the housing.
- Reinstall the new engine air cleaner/filter.
- Reinstall the cover and tighten the screws.
Refer to the Maintenance Schedule to determine when to replace the engine air cleaner/filter. See Part B: Owner Checks and Services .
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.
