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Truck Repair DIY Blog Series: Replacing the Air Filter of your truck

Vehicles are equipped with an air intake system that draws in air and feeds it to the engine. However, without an adequate engine air filter, the engine would not ingest air safely. Explore this DIY Guide for replacing Air Filter.
Diesel mechanic performing air filter replacement on semi truck

Your truck's engine needs a perfect blend of air and gasoline to work effectively. Vehicles are equipped with an air intake system that draws in air and feeds it to the engine. However, without an adequate engine air filter, the engine would not ingest air safely.


The air filter traps any dangerous particles in the air that might otherwise enter the engine. Contaminants such as dirt and sand may enter the engine and cause harm without it, and the accumulating particles may block airflow if left unattended for lengthy periods. Although your truck's computer can adjust for a partly clogged air filter, it might reduce engine performance and fuel efficiency if it becomes too filthy. The air filter traps any dangerous particles in the air that might otherwise enter the engine.

How Often Should Your Engine Air Filter Be Replaced?

Depending on driving circumstances, the engine air filter should be changed every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. The suggested replacement interval may be found in your owner's handbook. Also, examine it while you're doing your routine under-the-hood inspection to see whether it's unclean.

How to Replace the Air Filter in an Engine

If you haven't replaced your engine air filter between 15,000 and 30,000 kilometers, now is the time to do so. Replacing the engine air filter is a simple task that usually does not need any equipment. Here's how to return your truck's engine air filter quickly and easily: Note that the following recommendations are provided only for educational and amusement reasons. See a repair database or handbook for particular repair instructions and suggested safety practices.


Step 1 - Ensure that your vehicle is securely parked.

Park your truck safely on level ground for easy engine air filter removal and installation. It will be easier and more comfortable for you to stand and move about due to this. Make sure the engine is switched off and that none of the components are running, including the air intake system. Allow the engine to cool down before working on changing the filter if you've been driving.


Step 2 - Remove the hood to reveal the air filter housing.

Open the hood using the lever positioned around the driver's seat after you've secured all of the preventative procedures outlined above. Depending on the make and model of your automobile, the placement of the lever may differ. It may be hidden behind the steering wheel, behind the driver's seat, or on the inner door panel.

After lifting the hood, locate the box linked to the engine through a big black tube. Your truck's engine air filter is housed in this compartment. When you notice the long tube, the air intake pipe, you'll immediately know it.


Step 3 - Get rid of the old air filter.

Remove the air filter housing cover to get access to the air filter. In most cases, you won't need any instruments to do this task. Some trucks, however, may require a screwdriver or ratchet and socket since screws or bolts fasten some filter housings. Plastic tabs or clips hold other filter housings together, which you may pull out with your fingertips. After you've removed the lid, the engine air filter will be visible in the housing. Air filters vary in size, shape, and appearance based on the make and model of your vehicle.


Step 4 – Raise with your hands and remove 

You'll be able to view the remainder of the housing after removing the air filter. Depending on how long it's been since you last updated your air filter and your normal driving circumstances, it might be dusty. If you often go off-roading, be prepared for a lot of dust and filth. Before installing the new air filter, vacuum out any dirt gathered within the old one.


Step 5 – Install the new air filter in the same way. 

It's relatively simple to change your engine air filter. Examine how the previous one was installed to determine which side should be facing down. Then, carefully insert the filter on top of the filter housing, ensuring tight. Replace the lid once the filter is secure. Before carefully pressing the tabs down, align any pins with their appropriate provisions—you should hear a clicking sound after they've locked. To check sure there are no holes that might lead to air pollution, touch the sides of the filter housing beneath the cover.


Final words

As you can see, the process of replacing the air filter of your truck is not a challenging thing to do. However, the process is much more complicated when compared to the operation of removing and replacing the air filter of another vehicle. While keeping that in mind, you can be ready to get the job done.


Your truck's engine needs a perfect blend of air and gasoline to work effectively. Vehicles are equipped with an air intake system that draws in air and feeds it to the engine. However, without an adequate engine air filter, the engine would not ingest air safely.



The air filter traps any dangerous particles in the air that might otherwise enter the engine. Contaminants such as dirt and sand may enter the engine and cause harm without it, and the accumulating particles may block airflow if left unattended for lengthy periods. Although your truck's computer can adjust for a partly clogged air filter, it might reduce engine performance and fuel efficiency if it becomes too filthy. Ensure that you adhere to all steps we shared and replace the air filter. On top of that, we also encourage you to spend your money purchasing a genuine air filter, which will help you get the job done without a challenge.