Changing Engine Air Filter

If you go to the dealer or to an autoshop, they will most likely want to charge you about $50 to $60 to change your engine air filter.  The air filter itself costs anywhere from $10 to $17.  The engine air filter is located in arms reach once you pop the hood.  On my prius, here is a top view of where the air filter cover is, which is held together by two clips that you just pop out to get the cover off.  The air filter will be easily accessible to you once you pop the hood.  If you are not sure where your air filter is located and want to look it up, then do a google search.  For instance, "air filter 2010 toyota prius".  If you are at the dealership or car shop, just ask them where it is located.  They won't mind popping the hood and pointing to the cover where the air filter is located.  If you want even more assistance, youtube has a ton of video taking you through the process step by step. 

Bottom Line:  This is definitely something that you can do yourself instead of paying an extra $40 or so in labor.  I can think of other things I'd like to spend that $40 on =).

Now all you need to do is go buy an air filter for your vehicle.  You can go to Advanced Auto Parts (http://www.advancedautoparts.com)  (Note:  affiliate of ebates.com so you can get cashback from your purchase by going through ebates.com) and purchase the new air filter.  The site will ask you for the year, make, and model of your vehicle.  It is very self explanatory.  This information is on your insurance and/or registration card if you don't know.  If you don't have an advanced auto parts near you, then just go to your nearest auto parts store. 

As show in the picture, just release the clips and remove the cover. 

Take the old filter out and put the new one in. Then, put the cover back on, and fasten the clips back.

That's it!! I'm serious!!