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How to Replace the Engine Air Filter in a 2012 to 2017 Toyota Camry

Part of maintaining your Toyota Camry includes replacing the engine air filter for optimal performance. Your Camry’s air filter traps dirt, debris, soot, and other airborne contaminants before it enters your vehicle’s engine. This helps to maintain engine performance and fuel economy, though the air filter can clog and offer reduced protection and performance over time. Completing an air filter replacement on your 2012 to 2017 Toyota Camry is a straightforward and routine maintenance task, and is a great way to keep your engine healthy and running its best.

It’s normally recommended you replace a 2012-2017 Camry’s air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, but your Toyota’s service’s manual includes the manufacturer’s recommended replacement interval. Dusty or polluted environments may also call for more frequent engine air filter changes to maintain fuel efficiency and optimize engine performance. Signs that your Camry needs a new engine air filter include reduced fuel economy, engine misfires, strange noises coming from the engine, or the smell of fuel when starting your car. Simplify your 2012 to 2017 Toyota Camry’s engine air filter replacement with these detailed instructions and step-by-step video from O’Reilly Auto Parts.

Engine Air Filter Replacement Tools & Materials

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Air Filters Engine Air Filter

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We will be replacing the engine air filter in this 2015 Toyota Camry LE, and procedures will be similar for 2012-2017 Toyota Camry models. Be sure to know the specifics for your vehicle before getting started. If you’re not completely comfortable doing the job yourself, we’d be happy to recommend professional technicians in your area.


A three-image collage of a white Toyota Camry parked with our expert locating the engine air filter under the Camry’s hood, and removing the mass airflow sensor wiring harness.

Step 1: Locate Your Engine Air Filter

Open the hood and locate the air filter housing. Disengage the two metal clips securing the lid. Unplug the mass airflow sensor wiring harness.
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A two-image split of our expert using a Phillips-head to loosen the air hose clamp and the air filter housing lid being removed.

Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the hose clamp connecting the housing to the air hose. Remove the housing lid.
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A two-image split of our expert removing the old air filter and clearing the housing of any debris.

Step 2: Remove Old Engine Air Filter

Remove the old filter and clean any dust or debris from the housing.
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A two-image split of the new engine air filter being installed, with the tabs aligned.

Step 3: Add New Engine Air Filter

Install the new filter, making sure it’s properly seated. Reposition the the housing lid, ensuring tabs and port are aligned.
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A three-image split of our expert tightening the screws on the air filter hose clamp, secure the housing lid, and closing the hood.

Secure the hose clamp with the screwdriver. Reconnect the mass airflow sensor wiring harness. Secure the lid to the housing with the metal clips and close the hood.
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Additional Resources

An O'Reilly professional holding a used, dirty cabin air filter and a new, clean cabin air filter side-by-side.

How To Replace the Cabin Air Filter in a 2012 to 2017 Toyota Camry
An O'Reilly professional pouring fresh SYNTEC motor oil into the engine of a Toyota Camry using a red funnel.

How To Change the Oil in a 2012-2017 Toyota Camry
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These detailed instructions and video walk you through an air filter replacement on a 2015 Toyota Camry LE, and will be similar to engine air filter replacements for 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, and 2017 Toyota Camry models. Restore engine performance, improve your Camry’s gas mileage, and help ensure lasting, powerful performance with regular engine air filter replacements. It’s best to consult your 2012 to 2017 Toyota Camry’s owners manual for the manufacturer-recommended engine air filter replacement interval. If you notice a clogged or dirty air filter, poor fuel economy, or decreased engine performance, replacing the engine air filter can keep your Camry performing its best.


The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.