How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2016 Ford F-150
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and DIY cost savings for 2009, 2010
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2016 Ford F-150
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and DIY cost savings for 2009, 2010
🔧 Engine Air Filter - Replacement
Replacing the engine air filter on your F-150 helps keep dirt out of the intake system and can restore airflow if the old filter is dirty. This is a quick, beginner-friendly job and usually takes just a few minutes.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Turn the engine off and let it cool before starting.
- Keep hands clear of the intake tube and fan area.
- Make sure the airbox lid seals fully when reassembled.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Trim clip removal 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 or keep the fob away from the vehicle.
- Open the hood and locate the air filter box near the engine bay.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the airbox
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver or release the retaining clips on the air filter housing.
- If your truck has a clip-style lid, lift each clip fully before removing the cover.
- Do not force the cover.
Step 2: Remove the old filter
- Lift the old engine air filter straight out of the airbox.
- Note how the filter is seated so the new one goes in the same way.
- Check the airbox for leaves, dirt, or debris and wipe it out if needed.
Step 3: Install the new filter
- Place the new engine air filter into the airbox with the seal seated all the way around.
- Make sure it sits flat and does not bend or bunch up.
- A crooked filter can let dirt in.
Step 4: Reinstall the airbox lid
- Set the cover back on the airbox and align all tabs or clips.
- Use your hands to press the cover fully into place, then lock the clips back down.
- Confirm the housing is closed evenly on all sides.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and listen for any unusual whistling or air leaks.
- Make sure the airbox is fully latched shut.
- Check the old filter to confirm it was dirty enough to need replacement.
💰 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 0.2-0.5 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.










