Toyota Tacoma: How to Replace Air Filter

The air filter in your Toyota Tacoma is designed to filter the incoming air before it gets to your engine. Having a clean air filter is critical to optimal engine performance.

By Bassem Girgis - February 2, 2016

This article applies to the Toyota Tacoma (1996-2015).

The air filter is the gate between the outside world and your engine. It works to filter the air going into your Toyota Tacoma's engine. The more clogged the filter gets, the less your engine will perform due to air constriction. Replacing the air filter is one of the easiest maintenance jobs you can do for your Tacoma. Once you figure out how to get to the air filter, you should be checking it regularly to ensure your truck is always driving at its full potential. If you're ready to replace your air filter, then read on to learn how.

Air filter
Figure 1. Air filter.
Toyota Tacoma How to Replace Air Filter

Materials Needed

  • Flat head screwdriver
  • New air filter

Step 1 – Remove intake tube

Using your flat head screwdriver, loosen the clamp holding the intake tube to the air filter. Then pull the intake tube away from the air filter.

  • Toyota Tacoma removing intake tube
    Figure 2. Loosen the intake tube clamp.
  • Toyota Tacoma removing air filter
    Figure 3. Pull the intake tube off.

Step 2 – Remove air filter

To remove the air filter, unclamp the two clamps holding it in place. Then pull it forward towards the front of the truck and out. Remove the filter from the assembly.

  • Toyota Tacoma removing air filter
    Figure 4. Disconnect the two clamps.
  • Toyota Tacoma removing air filter
    Figure 5. Remove the filter.

Step 3 – Install new filter

Install the new air filter the same way the old one was situated. Put the assembly in by pushing the back end in first, then connect the two clamps. Install the intake tube in place, then tighten the clamp.

Toyota Tacoma installing new air filter
Figure 6. Install the new filter in place.

Featured Video: Engine Air Filter Replacement

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