How to clean a K&N air filter

In this post we are going to explain how to clean a K&N air filter. K&N air filters are the most popular due to their durability and long lifespan. Unlike paper filters, K&N filters are made of cotton and can be cleaned and reused. Thanks to this, you won't have to bother with replacing them frequently.

Additionally, you will save money. And this is because, although K&N filters are more expensive than others, they will last you many years. You've probably heard more than once the famous saying "cheap is expensive". Well, with these filters that doesn't happen. It's better to spend a little more at the beginning than to spend less and have to buy another one more frequently.

Therefore, if you keep your K&N air filter clean and in good condition, you will improve your vehicle's mileage and performance. Do you want to know how to clean a K&N air filter? Keep reading!

How to clean a K&N air filter: 1. Clean the filter

1. Remove the filter: Open your car's hood to access the engine compartment. Find the air filter (it is usually inside a large plastic box; it is easily identified). If the filter has ring clamps or locking latches, unhook them and lift the filter. We recommend covering the air intake port with a towel to prevent debris from entering the engine once you have removed the filter.

2. Decide if the filter needs cleaning: You should only clean it if any of the pleats have dirt so thick that they are no longer visible. If the filter is clogged (or if the reddish lubricant layer does not appear), you most likely need to clean it.

3. Shake out the dust and dirt: Carefully shake the filter to remove debris from the surface. If you have safety glasses and a respirator mask, use them to avoid inhaling dust particles. Do not shake the filter too much or manipulate the pleats, as you could damage them. You can use a soft-bristled brush to remove dust without damaging the filter. We recommend that you remove the filter outdoors.

4. Spray the filter with a cleaner: Get the K&N filter cleaner and spray both sides of the filter and each pleat individually. Clean the inner and outer surfaces of the filter, not just the outer pleats. Use as much product as you need to completely cover both sides of the filter.

5. Let the product sit on the filter for 10 minutes: The cleaner will begin to break through embedded dirt, making rinsing easier. Place the filter on a towel while the product does its work (this way, you will prevent dirt from running off and staining everything). IMPORTANT: Do not let the product dry on the filter!

With these 5 steps, you will complete the first part on how to clean a K&N air filter.

How to clean a K&N air filter: 2. Rinse and dry the filter

6. Rinse the filter with cold water: Place the air filter under a faucet or hose so that water runs from the inside out (if you do it from the outside, dirt will get further into the filter). This will help remove loose dust and dirt. If you see that the air filter is too dirty, repeat the same process and rinse it several times.

7. Remove excess water. Let the filter drip to eliminate as much moisture as possible. A good idea is to place the filter on a clean, dry towel (to absorb more water) in a warm place so it dries beforehand.

8. Let the filter air dry: It takes about 6-8 hours to dry completely. Therefore, let it dry overnight.

If you get this far, you will have completed the second part and will be closer to knowing how to clean a K&N air filter completely. All that's left is to lubricate the filter and put it back in place. Learn how to do it. Keep reading, you're almost done!

How to clean a K&N air filter: 3. Lubricate the filter

9. Apply a thin layer of lubricant to each pleat of the filter: The K&N air filter lubricant contains a reddish tint. You'll know you're done when the entire filter is red. Then, with absorbent paper, wipe away excess lubricant. Do this in an outdoor location or with ventilation. IMPORTANT: Be careful not to over-lubricate the filter! If you overdo it, the air intake could absorb the excess lubricant and, therefore, engine performance will worsen.

10. Let the lubricant settle: For the lubricant to settle properly, let it work for 20 minutes. The lubricant is very important because it helps the filter collect dust and dirt as it filters into the air intake. Additionally, the lubricant will protect the filter, which will extend its lifespan.

11. Place the filter in its location. Slide the air filter into its slot inside the engine compartment. Remember to hook the latches or clamps that hold it in place!

And you're done! If you follow all these steps, you will have your K&N filter like new and your car's engine will be ready for another 80,000 km. Even so, we recommend checking the filter's condition every 40,000 km.

Now you know how to clean K&N filters. You have no excuse for not keeping it in perfect condition at all times. Below, read our tips and warnings. They will surely be helpful!

Tips and warnings

Wear gloves to avoid getting dirty.

To reduce drying time, clean your K&N air filter on a sunny day or with good weather. Do not use hair dryers or similar objects to dry your filter faster, as you could damage it. Be patient!

Write down the mileage somewhere once you have cleaned the filter. This way, you can keep track and know when it needs to be cleaned again.

If you see that the filter fabric is damaged, you will need to replace your K&N filter with a new one.

Things you will need to clean your K&N air filter

Now that you know how to clean a K&N air filter, you will need the right products. You're in luck! Since at CKC Auto Sport we have a wide variety of cleaning kits. Among them, our K&N oil and soap cleaning kit is one of the most popular on our website. And if you don't want the complete kit, we have individual cleaners for purchase, such as the K&N filter cleaner spray.

On the other hand, if what you need is to replace your filter with a new one, enter our website and buy your K&N air filter at the best price. And if you want to buy any other accessory for your car, visit our CKC Auto Sport website and discover everything we have. You will be surprised. Choose quality. See you next time!