Toyota Engine Air Filter Buyer's Guide
The engine air filter is something you can maintain and replace by yourself without enlisting the help of a shop. If you're not sure where to start with your engine air filter (which you need to replace every 15K-30K miles), this guide is for you. Here, we'll answer 4 of the most frequently asked questions Toyota owners have about engine air filters.
1. What is an Engine Air Filter and Why is it Important?
The engine air filter is a rectangular pleated filter situated near the front of the engine compartment. Its purpose is to filter out particles like dust, dirt, bugs, etc. and only allow clean air into the engine.
The air filter is an important part because the engine needs clean air. Since the engine sucks in substantial amount of air, it's exposed to a lot of dust and debris if there's no air filter. The dust and debris will damage the internal engine components and wear out the engine faster. The engine air filter is an inexpensive way to prolong your engine's life.
This article has more information about what engine air filters are and how they protect your engine.
2. How do I Know if My Engine Air Filter Needs to be Replaced?
You don't need any fancy tools to check how much life is left in the engine air filter. All you have to do is to pull the air filter out of the cold air collection box and then hold it up to a bright light to see how clogged it is. This set of instructions will walk you through the process with ease.
3. Should I Get an OEM or Aftermarket Engine Air Filter?
When you have a dirty air filter, it's time to think about what kind of replacement air filter to get. Any old air filter won't work. You need to get one that's designed specifically for your Toyota model. You have two options to choose from: OEM and aftermarket. To determine which choice is better for you, consider the three most important factors of an engine air filter:
- Filter material surface area
- Filter material quality
- Fitment
This guide covers each factor in more detail and will help you reach an educated decision.
4. How do I Replace the Engine Air Filter on my Toyota?
Replacing the engine air filter is even easier than diagnosing a dirty air filter. Now that you know how to access the air filter inside the cold air collection box, you should be able to pull it out and then put in the new air filter. This set of instructions will walk you through the process.
You're welcome to contact us with any questions that weren't answered in this buyer's guide.