How much does Air filter change cost?

When you take your car in for vehicle maintenance, you are probably thinking about getting the oil changed, fluids topped off, brakes checked, and tires rotated. However, one of the most important and often forgotten parts of routine car maintenance is replacing the air filter.

Engine air filters stop dirt, debris, and other harmful contaminants and allow only clean air to enter the car engine’s combustion chamber. With a dirty air filter, airflow is restricted and a variety of problems can occur, such as a drop in power, decreased fuel efficiency and lower gas mileage, a more difficult time starting the engine, and eventually, engine failure. 

This guide provides the average cost of air filter replacement by auto repair shops and auto dealerships, and auto parts stores. 

The average cost to replace a car’s air filter is $40–90.

Your vehicle’s engine air filter should be changed every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but depending on the vehicle model, your driving conditions, and the air quality, you may need to change it more frequently. Consult the owner’s manual of your car (usually in the glove box) for more specific instructions on when you should change the air filter. 

Some vehicles may tell you when your air filter needs replacing through warning indicators on your dashboard such as the check engine light. 

There are different “fits” available for new air filters. Some are designed to fit a specific vehicle make, model, and year. Others are designed as universal filters that can fit in a range of vehicles, depending on the shape and dimensions of the engine. Here are the average costs of air filter services, with parts and labor included.

Single-use. Single-use air filters are usually made of paper and disposable, so you buy a new one every time you get your car’s air filter replaced. These are the most common types of air filters available.

Average cost: $30–50

Reusable. Reusable filters are made from higher quality, durable materials so they can be washed and used repeatedly. 

Average cost: $50–100

The labor cost at an auto repair shop can vary from business to business, but most range between $50–200 per hour, but air filter replacement only takes a few minutes. The cost will depend on local labor rates, the type of repair shop (dealership, independent mechanic, chain store), facility overhead, and skill levels and certifications of the auto repair technicians. Some shops will list engine air filter changes for a flat rate.

Air filter changes usually occur during oil changes or other routine car maintenance services. A mechanic will often check the state of the air filter while performing other car maintenance tasks and offer air filter replacement as an optional add-on service. Here are a couple of other repairs related to engine air filter changes that the service center will check during routine vehicle maintenance. The prices listed include parts and labor.

Replace cabin air filter. Most vehicles are equipped with an air cabin filter to limit the contaminants that may enter the car and keep it smelling fresh and clean. Like the engine air filter, the cabin filter can get clogged and affect the performance of your car’s air conditioning system as well as the air quality.

Average cost: $30–70 

Replace fuel filter. The fuel filter acts as a permeable barrier that stops sediment, contaminants, and rust before they can get inside the fuel injection system and inside the engine of your vehicle and affect its performance.

Average cost: $50–150 

Air filter replacement costs are fairly cut and dry, but there are ways to save some money.

DIY. If you have the tools and feel comfortable working under the hood of your car, replacing the air filter is a relatively simple DIY maintenance task. You can purchase cheap disposable air filters at an auto parts store for $10–30 or a reusable one for $25–60.

Pass on the cabin filter. If you don’t want to deal with the car’s air intake system to change the air filter, the cabin filter is usually located behind or under the glove box and you get to it from inside the car. Cabin filters cost $10–20. 

Look for specials. Auto repair shops, car dealerships, and auto parts stores often run specials on routine car maintenance. 

How much is an air filter change?

The average cost to replace a car’s air filter is $40–90.

Can I change the air filter myself?

Air filter replacement is typically a quick and easy job. Most engine air filters are easily accessible under the vehicle’s hood and rarely require tools beyond a simple wrench and screwdriver. If you feel comfortable working under the hood of your car, replacing the air filter is a relatively simple DIY maintenance task.

How do I know if my air filter needs changing?

It is generally recommended that you change your car’s air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but dusty driving conditions will require more frequent changes. Consult the owner’s manual for more specific instructions. Some vehicles may also tell you when your air filter needs replacing through warning lights on your dashboard.

Find an air filter change in your area.