How to replace air filter on a 2015 Subaru Forester

DIY: Remove or replace the air filter on a 2015 Subaru Forester

Tools required: 
None
Screwdriver if removing intake boot (optional)

Time: 
5-10 minutes

Car: 
2015 Subaru Forester 2.5i


Steps: 

• Open the hood.
• Locate Air Filter Box on passenger side behind headlight.
• Remove two metal clips holding two halves of air filter box together. Clips are circled in red below. 
• Push the rear half of air box backwards and remove dirty air filter. 
• If there is not enough space to remove the old filter, consider removing the rear half. Loosen and remove the clamp circled below in blue and pull the intake hose backwards. Un-clip the MAF sensor wire bundle and remove the rear half.

 

•  Dirty OEM air filter below. 

 

• I replaced the old filter with a MAHLE Air Filter. The Mahle filter has more pleats for better filtration and performance. Look at the picture below to see the difference. 

  Installation:

• Install new filter with the pleats facing the headlights and flat side facing passenger. If there is excessive dirt and grime, clean the area with soapy water or a degreaser. 
• Push rear half to forward half until they fit and re-attach two metal clips. 
• If you removed the rear half, attach the rear half and MAF wiring bundle. Connect intake hose to rear half and reattach clamp. 
• That's it! 

Start the car and check for major air leaks around the air box halves and intake hose.

Notes: 
Check your air filter at least every other oil change. Air filters typically need to be replaced 10,000 - 15,000 miles depending on driving habits and air quality.

A clean air filter will improve gas mileage and power. Do not let a dirty air filter punish you at the fuel pump.