How to Replace the Air Filter on a 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape

Your Ford Escape’s air filter helps trap and remove dust, dirt, and contaminants from the outside air before entering your vehicle's engine. Changing your 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape’s air filter is a straightforward maintenance task that can improve fuel economy and engine performance. It’s recommended that you change your SUV’s air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but your Ford’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 Ford Escape. Our detailed step-by-step instructions will help you perform an air filter replacement on your 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape to help keep your car running at its best.

Tools & Materials

Safety Eye Glasses Safety Glasses
Gloves Nitrile Gloves
MicroGard Air Filter Air Filter

Step-by-Step Instructions to Replace the Air Filter on a 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape

Today, we’ll be changing the air filter on this 2008 Ford Escape XLT, and procedures will be similar for Ford Escapes from 2008 to 2012, 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

O’Reilly Auto Parts mechanic pointing at the air filter under the hood

Step 1: Locate the Air Filter

Park on a level surface and open the hood. The air filter in this vehicle is on the driver’s side behind the battery.
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Man in blue gloves detaching the hooks from the housing and moving it out of the way

Step 2: Remove the Inner Half of the Air Filter Housing

Disengage the two fasteners on the top of the housing, then move the inner half of the housing to the side. This should give you access to the air filter.
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Mechanic using a screwdriver to loosen and remove the connected hose

Step 3: Loosen the Connected Tube

You may have to loosen and disconnect the tube connected to the air filter housing with a screwdriver to set the inner half of the housing to the side.
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Mechanic holding the old air filter

Step 4: Remove the Air Filter

Remove the old air filter and clear the housing of any leaves and debris.
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Install the New Air Filter

Mechanic securely placing the new air filter into the Ford Escape

Step 5: Install the New Air Filter

Install the new air filter, making sure that its edges are seated properly along the edges of the housing.
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Man holding the inner housing in place

Step 6: Reinstall the Inner Housing

Move the inner half of the housing back into place and be sure the tabs at the bottom are properly aligned with their slots so the two halves of the housing will fit flush against each other.
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Additional Resources

Changing cabin air filter in car

How to Install a Cabin Air Filter on a 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape
mechanic wearing gloves changes oil filter

How to Change the Oil in a 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape
How to Replace the Tail Lights on a 2008 to 2011 Ford Escape

How to Change a Tail Light in a 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape
Learn to remove and replace the air filter in your Ford Escape with these step-by-step instructions. This video shows an air filter change on a 2008 Ford Escape XLT with a V6 engine, and the replacement procedures will be similar for 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 Ford Escapes. Replacing the air filter on your Ford helps to better remove contaminants from the outside air before it enters the engine, and can improve your SUV’s engine performance and gas mileage. Your 2008 to 2012 Ford Escape’s owner’s manual lists replacement intervals, but if you notice a dirty or clogged air filter, or reduced fuel economy, you can replace the air filter more often 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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