How to Replace an Air Filter in a Toyota Highlander

A clean air filter is important to engine performance in all vehicles. It allows air to freely flow to the engine, which improves gas mileage and the engine life span. An air filter should be changed every 3,000 miles if the vehicle is driven under extreme conditions, or every 30,000 for average driving conditions. Replacing an air filter in a Toyota Highlander will take the average person 10 minutes or less.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. • 1

     Turn the Highlander off for the duration of the maintenance process to avoid possible injury from the engine backfiring.

   • 2

     Lift the hood of the Highlander. Locate the air filter housing unit on the driver's side of the car, it is in back corner closest to the windshield. Look for a black, plastic box that has an accordion-type hose attached to it that leads to the engine.

   • 3

     Open the lid on the air filter housing unit by loosening the clips that hold it in place. Lift the lid off of the unit.

   • 4

     Take out the old filter from the housing unit by lifting it out. Clean any remaining debris out of the air filter unit. Wipe the inner and outer surfaces of the housing unit with a damp cloth.

   • 5

     Place the new air filter in the housing unit. Use a K&N air filter, part number 33-2260, for a Toyota Highlander manufactured between 2001 and 2008. Locate older Toyota air filter online or at your local auto supply store.

   • 6

     Replace the lid on the housing unit box. Reattach the clips to secure the lid in place.