Replacing the air filter in the Ford Escape is an easy job that can be done in just a few minutes. The air filter is designed to keep particles and contaminants from getting into the Ford Escape engine system and clogging it up. The filter is placed in the air filter housing, which is enclosed to give the engine another layer of protection against outside dust and debris. You can replace the filter during a car's scheduled tune-up (about every three to six months) and save the time and expense of having a mechanic change the filter for you as a separate maintenance job. Some of the newer models of the Ford Escape, including some of the hybrid engines, place the air filter on the top center or the top front of the engine, inside a black plastic housing.
Locate the black plastic air filter housing on the driver's side of the engine compartment, behind the battery.
Unfasten the two metal clips on the top of the air filter housing and pull the housing apart to access the air filter.
Remove the old air filter and place the new filter in the housing.
Snap the two metal clips closed on the housing.
