How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2017-2020 Toyota 86 (Step-by-Step Guide) (Engine: Flat 4 2.0L)
Beginner-friendly instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and post-install checks for a proper airbox seal
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2017-2020 Toyota 86 (Step-by-Step Guide) (Engine: Flat 4 2.0L)
Beginner-friendly instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and post-install checks for a proper airbox seal for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
🔧 86 - Engine Air Filter Replacement
Your 86’s engine air filter sits inside the air box and traps dust before it reaches the engine. Replacing it is quick and helps maintain airflow, fuel economy, and throttle response.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.25-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- 🛑 Work with the engine OFF and cool to avoid burns.
- 🛑 Keep fingers clear when snapping air box clips shut.
- 🛑 Do not start the engine with the filter removed.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- Flashlight
- Flathead screwdriver
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Engine air filter - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your 86 on level ground and shift to Park.
- Let the engine cool for 10-15 minutes if it was running.
- Open the hood and support it securely.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Locate the air box
- Use a flashlight to find the black plastic air box in the engine bay (it’s the box connected to the large intake tube).
Step 2: Unclip the air box cover
- Release the metal retaining clips around the air box by hand.
- If a clip is tight, gently pry it with a flathead screwdriver. Don’t force it—clips can bend.
Step 3: Open the air box and remove the old filter
- Lift the air box lid straight up (you usually don’t need to remove any hoses).
- Pull the old filter straight out using nitrile gloves.
Step 4: Clean the air box sealing area
- Use the flashlight to look inside the lower air box for leaves or heavy dirt.
- Wipe the air box rim (where the filter seals) with a clean rag you have available. A clean seal prevents unfiltered air leaks.
Step 5: Install the new engine air filter
- Place the new filter into the lower air box in the same orientation as the old one.
- Make sure it sits flat all the way around (no corners folded).
Step 6: Close and secure the air box
- Lower the lid carefully, keeping the filter aligned.
- Snap all the clips back into place by hand.
- Do a quick visual check with the flashlight to confirm the lid is fully seated and even.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 15-30 seconds.
- Listen for unusual hissing/whistling that could indicate the air box isn’t sealed.
- If you see a check engine light afterward, re-check that the air box lid is fully clipped and seated evenly.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: ₹1,500-₹4,000 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: ₹800-₹2,000 (parts only)
You Save: ₹700-₹2,000 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run ₹800-₹2,500/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.3-0.5 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.

















