Air filter check and replacement
1. The air filter is located inside a housing at the left (driver’s) side of the engine compartment. To remove the air filter, release the clamps that secure the two halves of the air filter housing together, then separate the cover halves and remove the air filter element (see illustrations).
17.1a Unlatch these clips …
17.1b … pull the cover out of the way and lift the element out
2. Inspect the outer surface of the filter element. If it is dirty, replace it. If it is only moderately dusty, it can be reused by blowing it clean from the back to the front surface with compressed air. Because it is a pleated paper type filter, it cannot be washed or oiled. If it cannot be cleaned satisfactorily with compressed air, discard and replace it. While the cover is off, be careful not to drop anything down into the housing.
Caution: Never drive the vehicle with the air filter removed. Excessive engine wear could result and backfiring could even cause a fire under the hood.
3. Wipe out the inside of the air filter housing.
4. Place the new filter into the filter housing, making sure it seats properly.
5. Make sure the top half of the housing is seated properly, then secure it with the clamps.