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2016 Toyota Prius
2019 - 2022 Toyota Prius
LE Inline 4 1.8L
Compatible with more variants.
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How to Change 2016-2022 Toyota Prius Engine Air Filter

How to Change 2016-2022 Toyota Prius Engine Air Filter

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How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2016 Toyota Prius

Step-by-step instructions with tools, safety tips, parts, and DIY cost savings for 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022

How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2016 Toyota Prius

Step-by-step instructions with tools, safety tips, parts, and DIY cost savings for 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022

Orion
Orion

🔧 Engine Air Filter - Replacement

The engine air filter keeps dirt and debris out of the intake system. On your Prius, this is a quick maintenance item that helps protect the engine and keep airflow clean.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.5 hours


⚠️ Safety & Precautions

  • Make sure the vehicle is in Park and the ignition is fully off.
  • Let the engine bay cool if the car was recently driven.
  • Keep dirt out of the airbox while it is open.
  • No battery disconnect is required for this repair.

🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

  • Flat trim tool
  • 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 if equipped.
  • Open the hood and locate the air filter box on the engine side.

🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Open the air filter housing

  • Use your hands and a flat trim tool if needed to release the airbox clips.
  • Lift the cover slowly so you do not knock dirt into the intake.
  • Keep the opening clean.

Step 2: Remove the old filter

  • Pull the old engine air filter straight out of the airbox.
  • Check the filter frame and the inside of the housing for leaves, dust, or debris.

Step 3: Clean the airbox

  • Wipe out any loose dirt from the airbox using a clean cloth or your hand.
  • Do not let debris fall into the intake tube.

Step 4: Install the new filter

  • Place the new engine air filter into the housing in the same direction as the old one.
  • Make sure it sits flat all the way around the edges.
  • Seating it crooked can let dirty air bypass the filter.

Step 5: Close and secure the airbox

  • Reinstall the airbox cover.
  • Use your hands to snap the retaining clips back into place.
  • Confirm the lid is fully seated and latched on all sides.

✅ After Repair

  • Start the vehicle and listen for any unusual air leaks or hissing sounds.
  • Make sure the airbox cover is fully sealed.
  • Recheck the clips after a short drive.

💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $60-$120 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $20-$45 (parts only)

You Save: $40-$75 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.


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