How to Replace an Air Filter in a VW Passat

A clean air filter is important to engine performance. It allows air to freely flow to the engine, thus improving gas mileage and increasing engine life. The air filter should be changed every 3,000 miles if the vehicle is driven under extremely dusty conditions, or every 30,000 for normal driving conditions. Replacing an air filter in a VW Passat will take the average person 10 minutes or less, even for beginners.

Instructions

1. Turn the Passat off. Keep the car off until the air filter has been replaced, running the car with the filter removed can result in serious injury in the event that the engine backfires.

2. Lift the hood of the Passat. Locate the air filter housing on the driver's side of the car, it is right next to the engine in the front of the engine compartment Look for a black, plastic box that has an vent hose attached to it that is also attached to the engine.

3. Loosen the clips on the sides of the air filter housing box. Lift the lid off of the box.

4. Remove the old filter from the housing unit, using caution not to dislodge any of the grime in the filter. Clean any remaining debris out of the air filter unit. Wipe the surfaces of the housing unit with a damp cloth.

5. Place the new air filter in the housing unit. Use a K&N air filter, part number 33-2888, for a VW Passat manufactured between 2006 and 2008. Locate older VW air filters online or at your local auto supply store.

6. Put the lid back on the housing unit. Attach the clips to secure the air filter housing unit lid in place.