How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2016 Ford F-150
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and final checks for 2009, 2010
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2016 Ford F-150
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and final checks for 2009, 2010
🔧 Engine Air Filter - Replacement
The engine air filter on your F-150 sits inside the air box in the engine bay. Replacing it keeps dirt out of the turbo engine and helps maintain proper airflow.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Make sure the engine is off and cool before starting.
- Keep tools and loose items away from the intake opening.
- Do not start the engine with the air box open.
- No battery disconnect is required.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Trim clip tool (specialty)
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Engine air filter - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Turn the ignition off and remove the key or shut off the push-button ignition.
- Open the hood and locate the air box on the passenger side of the engine bay.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the air box
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver if needed to release the air box clips.
- Some clips may be hand-release style; press them open carefully.
- Do not force brittle clips.
Step 2: Lift the air box cover
- Raise the air box lid enough to access the filter.
- Be careful not to tug on any attached intake ducting.
Step 3: Remove the old air filter
- Lift the old filter straight out by hand.
- Check the air box for dirt, leaves, or debris.
- If needed, use a trim clip tool (specialty) carefully to help release stubborn clips or move debris aside.
Step 4: Clean the air box
- Wipe out loose debris with a clean cloth by hand.
- Make sure nothing falls into the intake opening.
- Keep the intake area spotless.
Step 5: Install the new air filter
- Place the new engine air filter into the air box in the same orientation as the old one.
- Make sure it sits flat and seals all the way around.
Step 6: Close and secure the air box
- Lower the air box cover into place.
- Use your hands to snap the clips shut.
- If a clip is stubborn, use the flat-blade screwdriver gently.
Step 7: Final check
- Confirm the air box is fully closed and latched.
- Start the engine and listen for any unusual intake noise.
✅ After Repair
- Check that the engine runs normally at idle.
- Make sure the air box lid is fully seated.
- Inspect again after your next drive if the cover was difficult to close.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $60-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $20-$40 (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 0.2-0.3 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.

















