How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2018-2021 Kia Stinger (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and DIY cost savings
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2018-2021 Kia Stinger (Engine: Inline 4 2.0L)
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and DIY cost savings for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
🔧 Engine Air Filter - Replacement
The engine air filter keeps dirt and debris out of the intake system. On your Stinger, this is a simple service that usually only takes a few minutes and can help restore airflow if the old filter is dirty.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Work with the engine off and cool.
- Keep screws, clips, and the old filter from falling into the airbox.
- Do not run the engine with the airbox open.
- No battery disconnect is required for this repair.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Trim clip tool (specialty)
- 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.
- Open the hood and support it fully.
- Let the engine cool if it was recently running.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Locate the air filter housing
- Open the hood and find the black plastic airbox on the engine side of the intake tract.
- It is the box connected to the intake tube going toward the turbo.
Step 2: Open the airbox
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the airbox cover screws, if equipped.
- If your Stinger uses clips instead of screws, use a flathead screwdriver or trim clip tool (specialty) to release them gently.
- Lift the cover carefully so no dirt drops into the intake side.
Step 3: Remove the old filter
- Pull the old engine air filter straight out by hand.
- Note how it sits before removal.
Step 4: Clean the airbox
- Wipe out loose dirt from the bottom of the airbox with a clean rag.
- Do not let debris fall into the intake opening.
Step 5: Install the new filter
- Place the new engine air filter into the airbox in the same direction as the old one.
- Make sure the filter edge is seated evenly all the way around.
- A flat seal helps keep unfiltered air out.
Step 6: Close the airbox
- Lower the cover straight down and make sure it lines up correctly.
- Reinstall and snug the screws with the Phillips screwdriver, or snap the clips back in place.
- Do not overtighten plastic screws.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and listen for air leaks or unusual whistling.
- Make sure the airbox is fully closed and the intake tube is secure.
- Check that no tools or rags were left in the engine bay.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $60-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $20-$40 (parts only)
You Save: $40-$80 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 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.


















