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Best Engine and Cabin Air Filters
Air filters are one of the easiest parts to change yourself, often in 5 minutes with no tools. Here's what to buy.
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#1 Best overall: engine air filter
Top pickA clean filter helps your engine breathe and run well. Cheap and very easy to replace.
Key trade-off: low price, and a quick DIY job.
#2 Cleaner air inside: cabin air filter
Filters dust and pollen from the air you breathe inside the car.
Key trade-off: better air inside, and often forgotten.
#3 Reusable: washable air filter
You clean and reuse it instead of buying new ones.
Key trade-off: saves money over time, but costs more up front and needs cleaning.
Before you buy
- Check your filter when you change your oil.
- Replace it sooner if you drive on dusty roads.
- Your owner's manual shows where both filters are.
DIY: How to replace your engine air filter
- Open the hood and find the air filter box. It's usually a black plastic box connected to a large tube.
- Open the box. Undo the metal clips or screws holding the cover.
- Take out the old filter and note which way it sits. Hold it up to a light: if light barely shines through, it's time to replace it.
- Wipe out the box with a dry cloth to remove leaves and dirt.
- Put in the new filter the same way the old one sat, with the rubber edge sealing all around.
- Close the cover and fasten all clips or screws. Tip: the cabin air filter is often behind the glove box, so check your owner's manual.
Ready to do it yourself?