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Ford Mustang V6 2005-2014: How to Replace Air Filter

If your Mustang sounds like it's gasping for air, maybe it is. Check your air filter for excessive buildup, and then replace it with a new one.

By Ben Mannino - October 13, 2015
Contributors: Maximo

This article applies to the Ford Mustang V6 (2005-2014).

Your Mustang takes some really deep breaths. A dirty air filter will keep your engine from breathing right, and keep you from riding right. Many times we underestimate the importance of the filters in our cars. How dirty could it possibly be? The better question to ask yourself is how much time would it take to check?

The good news is that it's a quick, cheap and easy fix, so why not take on the project yourself? This article will detail the steps in changing your air filter from start to finish.

Materials Needed

  • Pliers
  • Replacement air filter
  • Flat head screwdriver

Step 1 – Undo the filter housing clips

Remove the clips on either side that are keeping the top and bottom sections of the filter housing closed, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1. Open the housing.

Step 2 – Open housing and remove old filter

Pull the top of the housing up to reveal the air filter. You may need to pry the two sections apart in cases where the top and bottom sections get stuck together. Be careful not to damage the edges, as we want to maintain a good air tight seal around the housing.

Pull up and remove the old filter (Figure 2). Be sure to clean out the bottom section of the housing of any debris that may remain in the tray after removing the old filter.

Figure 2. Remove old filter.

Step 3 – Install new filter

Lift the top section of the housing and place the new filter down on the bottom section of the housing, as shown in Figure 3. Push down all around the edges to make sure the filter is seated properly. We do not want any kinks or gaps along the filter edges, as this could compromise the air seal around the edges.

Figure 3. Install new filter.

Step 4 – Close and secure the housing

Push the top section of the housing back down over the air filter and secure the clips on both sides. You may need to re-seat the filter to make sure it's flat all around, so that the top section of the housing fits tightly and forms a solid seal all around.

Figure 4. Close housing.

Now fire the engine up and enjoy that smooth ride!

Featured Videos: Mustang V6 Air Filter Replacement

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  • 2011-2014 Models

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