How to Change the Air Filter on a 2010 to 2016 Chevy Equinox

Your Chevy Equinox’s air filter helps trap and remove dust, dirt, and contaminants from the outside air before it enters your vehicle's engine. Changing your 2010 to 2016 Chevrolet Equinox’s air filter is a straightforward maintenance task that can improve fuel economy and engine performance, as well as helping your engine run at its best even longer. It’s recommended that you change most vehicle’s air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but your Equinox’s service manual will detail the manufacturer’s maintenance intervals. A clogged air filter can cause your vehicle to misfire, make unusual engine noises, or you may smell gas when starting your Equinox. Our detailed, step-by-step instructions will help you perform an air filter replacement on your 2010 to 2016 Chevy Equinox and help keep your car running at its best.

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Tools & Materials

Safety Eye Glasses Safety Glasses
Protective Gloves Nitrile Gloves
air filter Air Filter
torx screwdriver T20 Torx Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions to Change the Air Filter on a 2010 to 2016 Chevy Equinox

Today, we’ll be changing the air filter in this 2014 Chevy Equinox LTZ, and procedures will be similar for a lot of Equinox models from 2010 to 2016, but be sure to know the specifics for your vehicle before getting started. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.
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Remove the Old Air Filter

2014 Chevy Equinox engine bay and air filter housing

Step 1: Locate the Air Filter Housing

Park on a level surface and open the hood. You’ll find the air filter housing on the passenger side toward the front of the engine bay.
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O’Reilly Auto Parts mechanic removing the screws holding the air filter housing in place

Step 2: Unscrew the Housing Lid

The four corners of the lid are held down by torx screws. Use a T20 torx screwdriver to loosen them, then remove them and set them aside.
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Mechanic lifting the lid off of the air filter housing.

Step 3: Remove the Lid

Lift the lid off of the housing and set it aside.
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O’Reilly Auto Parts mechanic holding the old air filter

Step 4: Remove the Old Air Filter

Remove the old air filter from the housing.
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Install the New Air Filter

O’Reilly mechanic placing a new air filter into the housing

Step 5: Install the New Air Filter

First, clean any leaves or debris from the inside of the housing. After it is clear, put the new filter into place making sure it’s properly seated.
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Anna from O’Reilly Auto Parts using a T20 torx screwdriver to install the screws to the air filter housing

Step 6: Reinstall the Torx Screws

Set the lid back on the housing and finger-tighten the torx screws. Tighten them down with your torx screwdriver.
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Overshot image of the air filter housing in the 2014 Chevy Equinox

Step 7: Close the Hood

Close the hood of the Chevy Equinox.
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Additional Resources

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Learn how to check, remove, and replace the air filter in your Chevy Equinox with these step-by-step instructions. This video demonstrates an air filter replacement on a 2014 Chevy Equinox LTZ, and the replacement procedures will be similar for 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, and 2017 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain models. Replacing the air filter on your Chevrolet helps to better remove contaminants from the outside air before it enters the engine, and can improve your car’s engine performance and gas mileage. Your 2011 to 2018 Chevy Equinox’ owner’s manual should list an air filter replacement interval, but if you notice a dirty or clogged air filter or reduced fuel economy, you can replace the air filter as often as needed to ensure optimal performance.

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.
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