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How to Inspect the Engine Air
Cleaner/Filter
To inspect the air cleaner/filter remove the filter from the
vehicle and lightly shake the filter to release loose
dust and dirt. If the filter remains caked with dirt, a new
filter is required.
To inspect or replace the engine air cleaner/filter, do the
following:
1. Loosen the hose clamp that is on the inlet duct on
the cover and pull off the hose.
2. For vehicles equipped with the 2.2L L4 engine,
release the two clips and turn the cover upward
to unhook the hinges. For vehicles equipped
with the 2.0L L4 supercharged engine, remove the
three screws on the cover.
3. Pull the air cleaner/filter box cover out and remove
the air filter element from the air filter box. If the
element is dirty, you should replace it. If the element
is only dusty, it may be cleaned by blowing
compressed air through it from the clean side.
Make sure you are away from your engine
compartment when cleaning the air filter with
compressed air.
4. Wipe all dust from inside the housing and inspect
the air cleaner and air inlet tube for cracks, cuts
and deterioration. The air inlet tube must be
replaced if it is damaged.
5. Install the air filter element, hose, hose clamp and
cover.
6. For vehicles equipped with the 2.2L L4 engine,
latch the two clips. For vehicles equipped with
the 2.0L L4 supercharged engine, replace the
three screws.
{CAUTION:
Operating the engine with the air cleaner/filter
off can cause you or others to be burned.
The air cleaner not only cleans the air; it helps
to stop flames if the engine backfires. If it is
not there and the engine backfires, you could
be burned. Do not drive with it off, and be
careful working on the engine with the air
cleaner/filter off.
Notice: If the air cleaner/filter is off, a backfire can
cause a damaging engine fire. And, dirt can
easily get into your engine, which will damage it.
Always have the air cleaner/filter in place when you
are driving.
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