2016-2020 Kia Optima Engine Air Filter Replacement

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Learn how to change the engine air filter on a Kia Optima. Changing the Kia intake air filter can be completed in just a few minutes.

Make sure you have the new filter ready before you start this job. You will only need one engine filter for your Kia Optima.

What you will need

  • Engine air filter for Kia Optima

PROCEDURE

how to change engine air filter kia optima
  1. Open Hood – Open the hood and locate the air filter housing. The air filter housing is a large plastic box on the engine’s left/right side. You will also see a large hose from the air filter housing the engine.
  2. Access engine air filter – Open the air filter box by pulling out the cover. Unclasp the large clips that keep the filter locked.
  3. Install the new engine air filter – Pull out the old air filter. After you pull out the old air cleaner filter, the next step is to install the new air filter. Push the new air filter into the air filter housing. Lock the two tabs by pushing them upwards.
  4. Finish installation – Insert the new air filter in the box. Make sure it sits properly; otherwise, you may not be able to close the air filter housing correctly.

Interval

  • Between 15,000 and 30,000 miles, depending on driving conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I change the air filter regularly?

Improved fuel economy. If the engine air filter gets clogged or dirty, it will restrict the air flowing into it. This means the air-to-fuel ratio is not within the manufacturer’s specifications; therefore, the engine will burn more fuel than it should.
Longer engine life. Regularly changing the engine oil filter will ensure that your car’s life is not shortened. Serious damage can be caused by dirt if it gets allowed into the engine combustion chamber. It is wiser to spend a few dollars on a new air filter than spend thousands on potential problems on top of spending more on the fuel pump.

What are the symptoms of a bad engine air filter?

Decrease Fuel Economy
Less Engine Performance
Check Engine Light On
Strange Engine Noise

How do I know if I need a new engine air filter?

When the car has less power
Your vehicle fuel consumption gets faster
Black Smoke on the exhaust pipe
The engine air filter is dirty

For more help with your vehicle, check out more repair guides.

Additional Resources

  1. Air Filter How-To: 2011-2016 Kia Optima
  2. Kia Optima Engine Air Filter Replacement Guide

Author

  • Rushit Hila • ASE Certified

    Rushit Hila, an ASE-certified engineer (G1 Automotive Maintenance and Repair), brings over two decades of hands-on experience in the automotive world to his writing. With a strong educational background, including a Master of Science in Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, he has honed his skills and expertise through years of practical work. As a respected authority in the field, Mr. Hila is dedicated to offering insightful and valuable content that resonates with both vehicle owners and mechanics.

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