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
🔧 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.
🎯 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.
















