How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2014-2018 Kia Forte (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)
Step-by-step air box removal, tools/parts list, fitment tips, and post-install checks
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2014-2018 Kia Forte (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)
Step-by-step air box removal, tools/parts list, fitment tips, and post-install checks for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018
š§ Forte - Engine Air Filter Replacement
Your Forteās engine air filter keeps dust and debris out of the engine. Replacing it restores proper airflow, helps performance, and protects the engine from dirt wear.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.5 hours
ā ļø Safety & Precautions
- ā ļø Work on a cool engine to avoid burns from hot parts.
- ā ļø Keep hands and tools away from the radiator fan area; it can turn on unexpectedly.
- ā ļø No battery disconnect is required for this repair.
š§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- Small flathead screwdriver
- Flashlight
š© Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Engine air filter - Qty: 1
š Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and shift to Park.
- Turn the engine off and let it cool for 10ā15 minutes.
- Open the hood and support it securely.
šØ Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Locate the air filter box
- Use a flashlight to find the black plastic air filter box (air cleaner housing) near the intake tube.
Step 2: Unclip (or loosen) the air box cover
- Release the metal clips by hand. If a clip is stubborn, gently help it with a small flathead screwdriver.
- Donāt pry hardāplastic tabs can crack.
Step 3: Open the housing and remove the old filter
- Lift the air box lid enough to access the filter (you usually donāt need to remove the whole lid).
- Pull the old filter straight out by hand while wearing nitrile gloves.
Step 4: Clean the air box (quick check)
- Use a flashlight to look inside the lower air box for leaves or heavy dirt.
- If needed, wipe out loose debris with a clean rag (do not let anything fall into the intake opening).
Step 5: Install the new air filter
- Place the new filter into the lower housing by hand.
- Make sure the filter sits flat and fully seated all the way around the edges (no gaps).
- A crooked filter can let dirt bypass.
Step 6: Reinstall and secure the air box cover
- Close the air box lid and align it carefully.
- Snap all clips back on by hand (use the small flathead screwdriver only to guide, not force).
- Give the lid a gentle tug to confirm itās latched evenly.
ā After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 10ā20 seconds.
- Listen for any loud hissing/whistling (a sign the air box isnāt sealed).
- Recheck the clips and lid alignment if anything sounds off.
š° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $40-$90 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $25-$55 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.5 hours.
šÆ 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 Kia vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2017 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2016 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2016 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.8L | - |
| 2015 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2015 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.8L | - |
| 2014 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 2.0L | - |
| 2014 Kia Forte | - | Inline 4 1.8L | - |

















