ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion

Lexus ES: How to Change Air Filter and Cabin Air Filter

Here's how to replace the air and cabin filter in your Lexus ES. This easy DIY job ensures that your car will get clean air.

By Brett Foote - January 9, 2015

This article applies to the Lexus ES (2005-2013).

Changing an air filter or cabin filter on any car is usually a very simple task, but if you've never done it before, you may not know where to start. Most every car or manufacturer is different, and you may just need to know where to look. Unlike a lot of maintenance, changing filters is something that you should really never pay someone to do for you because it is so simple and quick. So before you pay the dealership $100 to perform your next filter change, check out our guide below and save yourself money in the process!

Materials Needed

  • Air filter
  • Cabin filter
  • Phillips head screwdriver

Replacing a Cabin Filter

Step 1 – Remove old cabin filter

Open the glove box and look for a black flap in the back. Lift this flap up and out. Behind it you will see a white filter cover that has two hooks. Press these hooks inward and pull the white cover out. At this point you can simply slide the old filter out. Visually inspect the filter. If it is dirty, replace. Replacement is typically recommended every 30,000 miles or 36 months.

Figure 1. Look in the back of the glove box for the cabin filter cover.

Step 2 – Insert new cabin filter

Insert the new cabin filter. If you are using an OEM Lexus filter, make sure the arrow is pointing up. If you are replacing the filter with an aftermarket one, make sure the arrows are pointing down. Take note when you pull the old filter out which side the debris is on, and you will see that the air flows downward.

Figure 2. When you remove the old filter, take note which way the arrows are pointing.

Replacing an Air Filter

Step 1 – Remove old air filter

The air filter in a Lexus ES is located to the right (facing the engine in front of the car) of the engine in a plastic housing. There are four screws holding the top of the housing in place. Remove them using a Phillips head screwdriver and set aside. Remove the old filter and inspect. If it is visibly dirty, replace; otherwise, Lexus recommends replacing the air filter every 30,000 miles or 36 months.

Figure 3. The air filter housing on a Lexus ES.

Step 2 – Insert new air filter

Insert the new air filter in the air filter housing. Replace the top cover and the four screws that hold it in place, and you're done!

Figure 4. If your air filter looks like this, it's a good idea to go ahead and replace it.

Related Discussions