How to Clean an Injen Filter

Performance air intake kits and filters work by increasing airflow to the car's engine. Installing a reusable Injen filter improves your engine's torque and gives it an additional 5 to 11 horsepower. Over time, dirt builds up on the filter and should be cleaned off with Injen cleaner and oil every 30,000 to 40,000 miles. Do not use petroleum products to clean the filter as this will destroy the bonding elements and fibers in the air filter.

Things You'll Need

  • Injen filter oil and cleaner
  • Screwdriver
  • Gloves
  • Soft brush
  • Remove the Injen filter element by loosening the screws on the clamps that secure the unit to the intake pipe with a screwdriver.

  • Tap firmly on the filter a few times to loosen some of the dirt. Insert a soft brush between each pleat to remove as much of the dirt and debris as possible.

  • Spray a generous amount of Injen cleaning solution onto the filter. The special cleaner will break up any remaining dirt and oil. Spray a little on the inside of the filter as well.

  • Let the filter sit for about 15 to 20 minutes to allow the cleaner solution to settle and penetrate through the dirt buildup.

  • Use a water hose to flush the filter, brushing it down at the same time. Run water through the filter until the color of the water clears up. Do not use a pressure washer on the Injen filter.

  • Set the filter in direct sunlight for an hour to dry it out completely. Give it a few shakes to make sure it is dry before proceeding.

  • Apply Injen filter oil, starting at the top of the pleats where the rubber meets the filter. Do not oil the clean side of the filter that faces the engine. Evenly apply the oil on the top of every pleat; do not oil the inside of the filter because the oil will eventually run through the material after 15 minutes or so.

  • Apply filter oil to any spots you missed then let it sit for about 20 to 30 minutes before re-installing it.

  • Fit the air filter element back onto the receiving end of the intake tube. Hand-tighten the screw on the hose clamp with a screwdriver to secure the air filter in place making sure it is properly aligned and positioned according to the specifications of your particular vehicle