How much to replace an air filter in a car?

Author: Valerie Treutel  |  Last update: Friday, January 16, 2026

If you take your vehicle to your dealer for service, they will likely replace the air cabin filter with a manufacturer-approved version that can run from around $40 to upwards of $100. If you replace the filter yourself, it can be as affordable as $18 to $28.

How much does it cost to replace the air filter in a car?

The average cost for an Air Filter Replacement is between $59 and $78. Labor costs are estimated between $27 and $34 while parts are priced between $32 and $44. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.

Can I drive my car with a bad air filter?

Yes, you can drive with a dirty engine air filter, but it's not advisable. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, which can lead to several issues: Reduced Engine Performance: Limited airflow can cause the engine to run less efficiently, resulting in decreased power and acceleration.

Are air filters expensive to replace?

The cost of a new engine air filter varies depending on the make, model, and year of your car. Air filters are normally inexpensive, and you can get one for as little as $10 to as much as $70. Because of the additional labor charges, the estimated cost of replacing it with a mechanic can range from $60 to $170.

How often should an engine air filter be changed?

As you peruse the routine maintenance schedule for your car, truck, or SUV, have you found yourself asking, “How often should you change an engine air filter?” If so, then you've come to the right place! Generally speaking, engine air filters need to be replaced every 30,000 to 45,000 miles.

How to Replace your Air Filter

What are the symptoms of a bad engine air filter?

8 Dirty Air Filter Symptoms: How to Know When to Clean Your Air...
  • Air Filter Appears Dirty. ...
  • Decreasing Gas Mileage. ...
  • Your Engine Misses or Misfires. ...
  • Strange Engine Noises. ...
  • Check Engine Light Comes On. ...
  • Reduction in Horsepower. ...
  • Flames or Black Smoke from Exhaust Pipe. ...
  • Strong Fuel Smell.

What happens if you don't change the air filter in your car?

As your air filter catches unwanted particles, it's also helping your engine pull in the clean air it needs to operate effectively. But when the filter wears down and gets dirty, it can choke off your car's air flow and hurt your engine's acceleration power.

Why are air filter replacements so expensive?

Expensive air filters are made from higher-quality materials, last longer, are more efficient at trapping particles, and have a larger surface area to filter. This can lead to better indoor air quality and improved health.

How do I know if my air filter needs replacing?

A Dirty or Discolored Filter

A clean air filter is usually white or tan. Over time when dirt and grime accumulate on it, it turns dark brown or black. Always check your filter in a well-lit area. If your filter is dirtier than usual, it's time to replace it.

Will a dirty air filter throw a code?

A dirty air filter can cause your vehicle to throw a Check Engine code. During this instance, the Check Engine Light of your vehicle will turn on. The light turns on because your vehicle is sensing that its engine isn't receiving enough air.

What happens if you never change your air filter?

Poor Air Quality

If the filter is too dirty to do its job, those unwanted particles can collect in your ductwork and cling to the internal components of your HVAC system, ultimately diminishing air quality throughout your house.

How many air filters does a car have?

Most modern cars have two air filters — the cabin air filter and the engine air filter, which filter the air coming into your vehicle's cabin and engine, respectively. The cabin filter helps maintain the air quality inside your car by capturing pollutants like dust and allergens before they reach your nostrils!

Should I replace air filter myself?

If you go the DIY route, you can save money and take pride in the work you did yourself; however, unless you're an experienced mechanic who knows exactly what they're doing, it could be difficult to ensure that the air filter is installed correctly.

How much to replace spark plugs?

Where changing the spark plugs used to be a few dollars, it's a bigger job that costs more on today's vehicles. You can expect to pay between $3 and $20 per spark plug, although some unique models can range even higher.

How much does it cost to rotate tires?

Generally, a tire rotation could cost somewhere between $24 to $50. But sometimes, it could even go up to $120. What you pay might depend on where you go and what other services you get.

How much should a new air filter cost?

Most engine air filters will cost between $20 to $85, depending on the year, make, and model of your vehicle, and whether you do it yourself or take your vehicle to the dealer or a mechanic.

Does changing air filter increase mileage?

Replacing clogged filters improves horsepower and torque to like-new levels. Fuel mileage sees improvements as well. That's because the engine doesn't have to work as hard pulling air through a filter heavy with debris. Gas mileage can improve dramatically by as much as 10% or more.

Does an air filter increase insurance?

Generally, changes that improve the value or performance of your car will increase the cost of your insurance. For example, if you've altered the air filter or remapped the engine, you can expect to start paying more for your cover.

How hard is it to change the air filter in a car?

Changing your car's air filter is one of the simpler jobs you can do yourself and should take a matter of minutes. You'll find the filter in the engine bay, within the air filter housing, and the task is explained in step-by-step fashion in your Haynes Manual – you'll be able to complete it with ease.

What is the life expectancy of an engine air filter?

Depending on the filter you have, it may last anywhere from three to 12 months, or 3,000–12,000 miles. The exact lifespan of engine air filters will vary based on several factors, including their size, quality, and thickness.

Can I clean my car air filter instead of replacing it?

Cleaning the air filter only improves its appearance. When should an air filter be replaced? The air filter should be replaced after the period indicated by the vehicle manufacturer.

How long does it take to replace an engine air filter?

Typically, you'll need to replace your engine air filter once every 12 months or 12,000 miles. If you're in a dusty environment, it might be necessary more frequently.

Does an air filter affect AC in a car?

Change The Cabin Air Filter

Cabin air filters can capture dust, bugs, leaves, and other various types of debris. A dirty air filter can certainly impede your air conditioner's ability to cool and after time could cause unnecessary strain on the entire system.

Will my car run better without air filter?

No Air Filter

The air filter is like the lungs of your car, providing clean air to the engine for combustion. This air mixes with fuel to power up your ride. Without it, or when it's clogged, your engine struggles to breathe, leading to all sorts of problems.

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