🔧 GLA - Engine Air Filter Replacement

Replacing the engine air filter restores proper airflow to the turbo engine, which helps performance and fuel economy. On your GLA, the filter sits inside the air filter box in the engine bay and is a quick DIY service item.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.3-0.8 hours

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• ⚠️ Work on a cool engine to avoid burns.
• ⚠️ Keep dirt/leaves out of the open air box and intake tube.
• ⚠️ Do not touch or spray anything into the MAF sensor (mass airflow sensor); it’s a delicate airflow sensor in the intake tract.
• ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this job.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• Torx T25 screwdriver
• Torx T30 screwdriver
• 8mm socket
• 1/4" drive ratchet
• 6" 1/4" drive extension
• Plastic trim tool
• Shop vacuum
• Microfiber towel
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety glasses
• Flashlight

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Engine air filter - Qty: 1

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and switch the ignition OFF.
• Open the hood and let the engine cool for 15–30 minutes.
• Set your tools nearby so you don’t leave the air box open longer than necessary.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Locate the air filter box

• Use a flashlight to find the air filter box (large black plastic box connected to the intake tube).
• Use a microfiber towel to wipe loose dust off the top so nothing falls in when opened.

Step 2: Remove the air box cover fasteners

• Use a Torx T25 screwdriver or Torx T30 screwdriver to remove the air box cover screws (some versions use one or the other).
• If there are any clips, gently release them with a plastic trim tool.
• Tip: Keep screws in a small cup.

Step 3: Lift the air box cover

• Carefully lift the cover upward by hand. If it feels stuck, double-check for a missed screw using the flashlight.
• Do not force it—plastic tabs can crack.

Step 4: Remove the old air filter

• Lift the filter straight out by hand.
• Use a shop vacuum to vacuum leaves/dirt from the lower air box (do not vacuum inside the intake tube).
• Use a microfiber towel to wipe the sealing surface where the filter’s rubber edge sits.

Step 5: Install the new air filter

• Place the new filter into the lower air box by hand.
• Make sure it sits flat and fully in the groove all the way around (this prevents unfiltered air from bypassing).

Step 6: Refit the air box cover and tighten fasteners

• Reinstall the air box cover by hand, aligning any tabs first.
• Start all screws by hand to avoid cross-threading.
• Use a Torx T25 screwdriver or Torx T30 screwdriver to tighten the screws evenly.
• Torque to 4 Nm (35 in-lbs) if using an 8mm socket with a 1/4" drive ratchet where applicable; otherwise snug only (do not overtighten plastic).

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✅ After Repair

• Start the engine and let it idle for 30–60 seconds.
• Listen for whistling/hissing that could indicate the air box cover isn’t sealed.
• Take a short test drive and recheck that the cover and screws are still secure.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$180 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $15-$45 (parts only)

You Save: $65-$135 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.8 hours.

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🎯 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.