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Acura TL 2004-2008: How to Replace Air Filter

Changing out the air filter requires about as much time as it does to find your best Phillips head screwdriver. It's a very easy job, saving a bit of money in the process.

By Paul Johnson - April 29, 2016

This article applies to the Acura TL (2004-2008).

This has to be one of the easiest maintenance jobs to accomplish on a TL, just shy of adding fuel. It's easily accomplished using a long Phillips head screwdriver, or a ratchet and socket with a long extension. The filter needs to be changed periodically to ensure nothing but clean air is entering your engine. This ensures the engine lives its longest without issues. Not changing the filter can result in dirt/silt passing through, causing damage. It also chokes the engine of air and can cause increased fuel consumption.

Acura TL 2004-2008: How to Replace Air Filter

Materials Needed

  • Long Phillips head screwdriver or
  • Ratchet, socket, and long extension

Step 1 – Open air box

Lift the hood. Find the air box located about the center of the driver's side fender. To make this easier, remove the engine cover located just forward of the air box. Using the Phillips head screwdriver, loosen the four bolts located at the four corner points of the air box. These screws are captured screws, meaning they should stay in the air box without worry of loss.

Air Box ACURA TL TSX MDX RDX INTAKE FILTER REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
Figure 1. Air box.

Step 2 – Remove filter element

With the four screws loosened, lift the lid to discover the air filter element underneath. Lift and pull the filter from the air box, noting the direction which the filter is oriented; this will ease in re-installation. Note inside the air box if there is any debris, such as leaves or dirt. Clean out the air box as needed for a more healthy engine.

Remove filter Air Box ACURA TL TSX MDX RDX INTAKE FILTER REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
Figure 2. Remove filter.

Step 3 – Replace filter element

Place the new filter element into the air box, ensuring it sits flush in its new home. The black plastic support frame of the filter should be on top, with the main part of the filter element facing down. Situate the air box cover back over the air filter and ensure a proper fit. When satisfied with the fit, screw the four screws back into position to secure the cover. Replace the engine cover. Finally, shut the hood.

Filter Replacement Air Box ACURA TL TSX MDX RDX INTAKE FILTER REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
Figure 3. Filter replacement.

Featured Video: Air Filter Replacement, Acura TL 2004-2008

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