How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2011-2019 Ram 2500 (Step-by-Step Guide) (Engine: V8 5.7L)
Tools, parts, safety tips, and easy airbox removal steps to restore airflow and performance
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2011-2019 Ram 2500 (Step-by-Step Guide) (Engine: V8 5.7L)
Tools, parts, safety tips, and easy airbox removal steps to restore airflow and performance for 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018
🔧 2500 - Engine Air Filter Replacement
Your 2500’s engine air filter keeps dirt and debris out of the engine. Replacing it restores airflow, helps performance, and protects the engine from premature wear.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.25-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Let the engine cool before working near the intake and radiator area.
- ⚠️ Keep fingers clear of the engine fan and belts (key off).
- ⚠️ Do not run the engine with the air filter removed.
- ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this job.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- Flathead screwdriver
- Shop towel
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Engine air filter - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, shift to Park, and set the parking brake.
- Shut the engine off and let it cool for 10–15 minutes.
- Open the hood and support it securely.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Locate the air filter housing
- Use a flashlight to find the black plastic airbox connected to the large intake tube.
- Wipe off loose dust around the airbox seam using a shop towel so dirt doesn’t fall inside.
Step 2: Open the airbox
- Release the metal clips around the airbox by hand. If one is stubborn, gently help it with a flathead screwdriver.
- Lift the airbox lid upward. Don’t yank the intake tube.
Step 3: Remove the old air filter
- Pull the filter straight up and out by hand.
- Use the flashlight to check the bottom of the airbox for leaves/sand.
Step 4: Clean the airbox sealing surface
- Wipe the inside edges (where the filter seals) using a shop towel.
- If debris is sitting in the bottom, carefully lift it out with the shop towel (avoid pushing dirt into the intake opening).
Step 5: Install the new air filter
- Place the new filter into the lower airbox, making sure it sits flat and fully down in its pocket.
- Make sure the rubber seal is evenly seated all the way around. A crooked seal lets dirt in.
Step 6: Close and secure the airbox
- Lower the lid straight down so it matches the bottom half evenly.
- Snap all airbox clips back into place by hand.
- Do a quick visual check around the seam: it should look even with no gaps.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 20–30 seconds.
- Listen for a hissing/whistling sound near the airbox (can indicate the lid isn’t sealed).
- If you hear a leak, shut it off and re-check that the filter is seated and the clips are fully latched.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $60-$140 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $20-$60 (parts only)
You Save: $40-$80 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.5 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.
Guide for Engine Air Filter replace for these Ram vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2019 Ram 2500 | - | V8 6.4L | - |
| 2018 Ram 2500 | - | V8 5.7L | - |
| 2018 Ram 2500 | - | V8 6.4L | - |
| 2017 Ram 2500 | - | V8 5.7L | - |
| 2017 Ram 2500 | - | V8 6.4L | - |
| 2016 Ram 2500 | - | V8 5.7L | - |
| 2016 Ram 2500 | - | V8 6.4L | - |
| 2015 Ram 2500 | - | V8 5.7L | - |
| 2015 Ram 2500 | - | V8 6.4L | - |
| 2014 Ram 2500 | - | V8 5.7L | - |
| 2014 Ram 2500 | - | V8 6.4L | - |
| 2013 Ram 2500 | - | V8 5.7L | - |
| 2012 Ram 2500 | - | V8 5.7L | - |
| 2011 Ram 2500 | - | V8 5.7L | - |


















