Changing the air filter in a Ford Explorer is a straightforward task. Most people can change the filter in under 10 minutes. A clean air filter can extend engine life and improve gas mileage, because it helps the engine to work less. Manufacturers recommend changing air filters every 30,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or every 3,000 when the conditions are extremely dusty.
Turn off the car's engine before attempting to change the filter, the filter acts as a barrier against the engine backfiring. Don't start the car unless the air filter housing has it's lid in place.
Find the air filter housing unit. Look in the front, passenger side corner of the Ford Explorer, it will be just behind the windshield washer fluid reservoir.
Loosen the clips that hold the housing unit closed. Remove the lid and set it aside.
Remove the old filter from the housing unit. Clean the unit out making sure to remove large pieces of debris.
Replace the air filter with a new one that is compatible with the year make and model of your Ford Explorer. Use a K&N filter, part number 33-2366, for Explorers manufactured during the years 2002 to 2007.
Put the lid back on the filer housing unit. Don't catch any part of the filter between the lid and the base or unfiltered air can leak into the engine. Reclamp the clips to secure the lid in place.
