Chevrolet Silverado 2007-2013: How to Replace Engine Air Filter

A dirty air filter can gradually decrease the performance of your Chevy Silverado. The task is simple enough and can be done rather quickly.

By Jared Hammond - June 10, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (2007-2013).

The air filter is responsible for keeping the engine clear of dust and debris while still allowing cool air to flow through, which keeps the engine running smoothly. But over time, the air filter will become clogged and dirty, which in turn leads to a loss in performance from the engine. This is why it's important to regularly change your Chevrolet Silverado's air filter. Another reason you may want to replace the standard air filter is that some aftermarket air filters can improve engine performance and grant slightly better gas mileage (around a 1 mile to the gallon increase). Whatever your reason, if you need to replace your air filter you've come to the right place.

Materials Needed

  • Replacement air filter (K&N recommended)
  • T25 Torx screwdriver

Step 1 – Open the air intake cover

Open the hood of your truck and look for the black box on the bottom left corner. The cover is held down by four T25 Torx screws, one at each corner of the box. Remove these screws and the cover will come loose. Set the screws aside in a safe place.

Figure 1. Air intake box.

Step 2 – Replace the air filter

Open the cover and you'll see the square paper screen of your air filter. It's not held down by anything so you can just pull it out and set it aside. Next, insert your replacement air filter. Set it inside the air intake box and make sure that it is properly seated like the old air filter was. Now all that's left is to put back the air box cover and tighten down the four T25 Torx screws around the cover.

Figure 2. Insert the new air filter.

Pro Tip

After you've finished installing your new air filter, be sure to write down the date and mileage of your truck. This will give you an idea of when the next time you should clean or replace the air filter.

Featured Video: How to Install an Air Filter

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