The air filter cleans the air the goes into the engine. A clean filter can increase engine life and improve gas mileage by allowing the air to flow freely. Air filters should be changed every 30,000 miles or 3,000 when the car is driven in dusty conditions. Changing the air filter in a VW Jetta is a quick task that will take most people 10 minutes or less.
Turn the Jetta off before performing this maintenance task. Keep the car off when working on the air filter to stay free from injury as a result of an engine backfire.
Lift the hood of the Jetta. Locate the air filter housing unit on the driver's side of the car, it is right next to the engine, closest to the windshield. Look for a black, plastic box that has an accordion-type hose attached to it that leads to the engine.
Open the lid on the air filter housing unit by loosening the clips that hold it in place. Remove the lid from the unit.
Remove the old filter from the housing unit, and discard it. Clean any remaining dirt and debris out of the air filter unit. Wipe the inner and outer surfaces of the housing unit with a damp cloth.
Place the new air filter in the housing unit. Use a K&N air filter, part number 33-2888, for a VW Jetta manufactured between 2006 and 2008. Locate older VW air filters online or at your local auto supply store.
Put the lid back on the housing unit with the filter in place. Secure the lid in place by reattaching the clips.
