Your vehicle has two air filters that do very different jobs, and both are among the easiest parts to replace yourself.
Engine air filter
It cleans the air going into the engine. A clogged filter can reduce performance and efficiency. Check it at every oil change, and replace it at the interval in your maintenance schedule – sooner if you drive on dusty roads.
How to check: open the air box, lift the filter out and hold it up to a light. If light barely passes through, or the pleats are packed with dirt, replace it.
Cabin air filter
It cleans the air you breathe inside the car – dust, pollen and, with activated-carbon filters, many odors. Wildfire smoke season in California is a good reason to keep it fresh.
Signs it is due: weak airflow from the vents, a musty smell, or windows that are slow to demist. On many vehicles it sits behind the glovebox and changes in minutes without tools.
Fuel filter
Some vehicles have a serviceable inline fuel filter; many newer ones have it built into the fuel pump module. Your maintenance schedule will say whether yours needs replacing. Fuel systems can be under pressure – follow the service procedure.
Buy by fitment
Filters that look alike often differ by a few millimetres. Shop by year, make, model and engine, or call the parts counter at (909) 623-3151.