Engine Air Cleaner/Filter Replacement
2.2L L4 Engine shown, 2.4L L4 Engine similar
2.0L L4 Supercharged Engine
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 hose clamp that is on the inlet duct on the cover and pull off the hose.
- For vehicles that have the 2.2L L4 or 2.4L L4 engine, release the two clips and turn the cover upward to unhook the hinges. For vehicles that have the 2.0L L4 Supercharged engine, remove the three screws on the cover.
- Pull the air cleaner/filter box cover out and remove the air filter element from the air filter box. If the element is dirty, you should replace it. If the element is only dusty, it may be cleaned by blowing compressed air through it from the clean side. Make sure you are away from your engine compartment when cleaning the air filter with compressed air.
- Wipe all dust from inside the housing and inspect the air cleaner and air inlet tube for cracks, cuts and deterioration. The air inlet tube must be replaced if it is damaged.
- Install the air filter element, hose, hose clamp and cover.
- For vehicles that have the 2.2L L4 or 2.4L L4 engine, latch the two clips. For vehicles that have the 2.0L L4 Supercharged engine, reinstall the three screws.
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.
