How to Change the Air Filter on a 2014-2020 RAM 1500

Your RAM 1500’s air filter helps trap and eliminate dust, dirt, and contaminants from the outside air before entering your truck’s engine. Changing your 2014 to 2020 RAM 1500’s air filter is a simple and fast repair that can improve fuel economy and engine performance. It’s recommended that you change your RAM 1500’s air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but your truck’s service manual will detail the manufacturer’s maintenance intervals. A clogged air filter can cause your truck to misfire, make unusual engine noises, or you may smell gas when starting your RAM 1500. Our detailed step-by-step instructions will help you perform an air filter installation on your 2014 to 2020 RAM 1500 easily to help keep your truck running at its best.

Additional Resources

Tools & Materials

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

2014-2020 RAM 1500 Air Filter Replacement Instructions

The below steps detail changing the air filter on a 2015 Ram 1500 Big Horn, and will be similar for most 2014-2020 RAM trucks, but be sure to know the specifics for your truck before getting started. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.


Show More Show Less
1.1 - Open your hood and locate the air filter housing

Step 1: Remove the Old Air Filter

Open your hood and locate the air filter housing.
Show More Show Less
1.2 - Disengage the air filter housing cover by unlocking the tabs

Disengage the air filter housing cover by gently pulling outward to unlock the tabs on the back of the housing.
Show More Show Less
1.3 - Lift and remove the old air filter

Lift to remove the air cleaner cover from the lower housing, and remove the old RAM 1500 air filter.

Do It Right: Now is a good time to make sure your air filter housing is clear of leaves and debris.

Show More Show Less
2.1 - Install the new air filter into the housing

Step 2: Install the New Air Filter

Install the new air filter into the lower housing assembly.

Do It Right: Make sure the edges of the new filter are flush with the housing.

Show More Show Less
2.2 - Reinstall the air filter housing cover

Align the air filter cover with the lower housing assembly, and fasten the air cleaner cover tabs.


Show More Show Less
2.3 - Close the hood

Close the hood.
Show More Show Less

Additional Resources

How To: Change the Oil on a Late Model RAM 1500

How To: Change the Oil on a Late Model RAM 1500
How to Change Late Model RAM 1500 Taillights

How to Change Late Model RAM 1500 Taillights
How to Install a Lightbar

How to Install a Lightbar

These step-by-step instructions and video detail how to replace the air filter in your 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020 RAM 1500. The replacement procedures will be similar for select RAM 2500 and 3500 models between 2013 and 2019, as well as select 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2020 RAM 4500 and 5500 models. These steps are also similar for select Dodge RAM 1500, 2500, and 3500 applications between 2002 and 2010. Replacing the air filter removes contaminants from the outside air before it enters your RAM’s engine, and can improve your truck’s engine performance and gas mileage. Your 2014 to 2020 RAM 1500’s owner’s manual will detail the replacement intervals, but if you notice a dirty or clogged air filter or reduced gas mileage, you can replace the air filter more often to ensure optimum performance.

Show More Show Less

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.