Mitsubishi Engine Air Filter Replacement
Reviewed/Verified by:
Is your Mitsubishi due for an engine air filter, or feeling short on power? A clogged filter restricts airflow to the engine. Learn how to replace it in a few minutes. This article provides instructions on changing the engine air filter on a Mitsubishi. This guide applies mainly to Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander, and RVR models from 2008 through 2018.
At a Glance
- Fits: Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander and RVR (about 2008 to 2018)
- Tools: none on most models, just release the clips
- Time: about 10 minutes
- Remember: unplug and reconnect the MAF sensor connector
- Interval: check every oil change, replace about every 15,000 to 30,000 miles
Signs the Air Filter Needs Replacing
- Visibly dirty: hold it to a light; if little light passes through, replace it.
- Debris in the housing: leaves, insects or dirt on the clean side mean it is overdue.
- Sluggish acceleration: a badly clogged filter can reduce power, but it rarely sets a check engine light by itself.
- MAF related codes after the job: make sure the MAF connector is plugged back in and the housing is fully sealed.
What you will need
- Mitsubishi Engine Air Filter
Procedure
- Open the hood by pulling on the hood release under the dashboard. Locate the engine air filter in the engine bay.
- Press the connector for the mass airflow sensor and unplug it.
- Pop open two metal clips on top of the air filter housing. Pull the housing away to expose the air filter.
- Remove the air filter by pulling it upwards. Drop the new air filter in the housing.
- Close the air filter housing and press the metal clips to lock it closed.
- Reconnect the mass airflow sensor if you disconnected it.
Can’t close the filter housing?
If you cannot close the housing, it has come apart at the bottom. Open the filter housing and bring the bottom part of the housing together first.
How Often Should I Change My Mitsubishi’s Air Filters?
Change the engine air filter every 10,000 miles for the best performance and reliability.
🔧 Find out what is actually wrong before you pay someone to guess
Dealer level diagnostics at home with the YOUCANIC UCAN-II Pro.
- ✔ Covers most makes and models, including many luxury brands. Send us your VIN and we will confirm your car before you order
- ✔ Reads every module, not just the engine, so you find the faults a basic reader says are not there
- ✔ Commands the car: test a fan or pump, bleed ABS, retract an electronic parking brake, register a battery
- ✔ No subscriptions. Free lifetime updates, so the price you pay is the whole price
- ✔ Backed by real mechanics in the USA you can email before and after you buy
Featured in The Wall Street Journal
Applications
This guide applies to:
- Mitsubishi RVR 2014 to 2016
- Mitsubishi Outlander 2014 to 2016
- Mitsubishi Lancer 2008 to 2017
References
- Air Filter How-To: 2014 to 2019 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 2.4L CarCareKiosk.com
- How Often Should I Change My Mitsubishi’s Air Filters?: Brooklyn Mitsubishi .com
- Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Engine Air Filter Replacement Guide: PaulTravelPictures.com
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my Mitsubishi air filter?
Check it at every oil change and replace it about every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, sooner in dusty conditions.
Why will my air filter housing not close?
The filter is not seated in its groove or is the wrong size. Reseat it and make sure the edges are flat before closing the clips.
Can a dirty air filter cause a check engine light?
Rarely on its own. If a light appears after changing it, check the MAF connector and that the housing is sealed.
Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Mitsubishi.
