How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2018 Hyundai Ioniq (Step-by-Step)
Beginner-friendly instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and post-install checks for intake leaks for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2018 Hyundai Ioniq (Step-by-Step)
Beginner-friendly instructions with tools, parts list, safety tips, and post-install checks for intake leaks for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
🔧 Ioniq - Engine Air Filter Replacement
Your Ioniq’s engine air filter keeps dust and debris out of the engine. Replacing it restores proper airflow, which can help fuel economy and drivability and prevents premature engine wear.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.4 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Turn the car fully OFF before starting (READY light off).
- ⚠️ Keep hands/tools away from the radiator fan area; it can run unexpectedly on hybrids.
- ⚠️ Do not blow debris into the intake tube/air box.
- Battery disconnect is not required for this service.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety glasses
- Flathead screwdriver (small)
- Clean shop towel
- Flashlight
🔩 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 shift to P.
- Turn the vehicle OFF and confirm the READY light is off.
- Open the hood and let the engine bay cool if it’s hot.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Locate the air filter housing
- Use a flashlight to find the black plastic air box in the engine bay (the box connected to the large intake tube).
- You’ll see metal retaining clips around the edge of the air box lid.
Step 2: Release the air box clips
- Wear nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
- Unclip the retaining clips by hand.
- If a clip is tight, gently pry it with a flathead screwdriver (small) (do not snap the clip).
- Tip: Keep one hand on the lid.
Step 3: Open the air box and remove the old filter
- Lift the air box lid just enough to access the filter (you usually don’t need to fully remove the lid).
- Pull the old filter straight up and out.
- Use a clean shop towel to wipe loose dust from the clean side of the air box only.
Step 4: Install the new filter
- Compare the new and old filter to confirm the same shape and size.
- Drop the new engine air filter into the air box with the rubber seal seated evenly all the way around.
- Make sure the filter is flat and not pinched or folded.
Step 5: Close the air box and re-latch the clips
- Lower the air box lid into position so the edges align evenly.
- Snap each retaining clip back into place by hand.
- Do a quick tug-check on the lid to confirm it’s fully latched.
✅ After Repair
- Start your Ioniq and let it idle briefly; listen for any hissing/whistling that could indicate the air box lid isn’t sealed.
- If you hear an air leak, shut it off and re-check that the filter seal is seated and every clip is fully latched.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $60-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $45-$85 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.4 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.


















