How Much Is the Air Filter for an Audi Q7?
An air filter for an Audi Q7 typically costs between $20 and $120 in the United States, depending on the filter type (engine or cabin), brand, and where you buy it. Labor at a workshop can add another $40–$120, bringing a full replacement at a dealer or shop into the $80–$250 range. Below is a detailed breakdown of what affects the price, how different model years compare, and how to choose the right filter.
Contents
Different Types of Air Filters in an Audi Q7
When people ask how much an “air filter” costs for an Audi Q7, they may mean either the engine air filter or the cabin (pollen) filter. They serve different roles and have different price ranges.
Engine Air Filter
The engine air filter cleans incoming air before it enters the engine, protecting it from dust and debris and helping maintain performance and efficiency.
The following list outlines typical price ranges for engine air filters for the Audi Q7 by filter type and purchase source, based on current online and retail pricing in late 2024:
- Standard paper OEM-style filter (dealer or genuine Audi/VW brand): approx. $45–$90
- Standard aftermarket paper filter (brands like Mann, Mahle, Bosch): approx. $20–$50
- Premium reusable / performance filter (e.g., K&N, aFe): approx. $60–$120
- Online marketplace pricing (Discount/OEM-equivalent suppliers): approx. $25–$70
- Chain auto parts stores (US/Europe retail chains): approx. $30–$80
Taken together, these figures show that a typical owner who chooses a solid aftermarket option will usually pay in the $25–$60 range for an engine air filter, while sticking with dealer-branded parts or performance filters can push the cost toward or above $100.
Cabin (Pollen) Air Filter
The cabin air filter (often called a pollen or dust-and-odor filter) cleans the air entering the interior through the HVAC system. It is separate from the engine filter and usually somewhat cheaper.
The following list summarizes the common price brackets for Audi Q7 cabin filters based on type and brand, using pricing data from major parts retailers and Audi parts catalogs as of 2024:
- Standard paper cabin filter (OEM or OEM-equivalent): approx. $20–$40
- Activated charcoal / carbon cabin filter (better odor and pollution control): approx. $30–$60
- High-efficiency / “allergen” style filter (fine particulate capture): approx. $40–$80
- Dealer-supplied genuine Audi cabin filter: typically around $40–$80, depending on model year and market
Overall, most Q7 owners can expect to spend roughly $25–$60 for a quality cabin filter, with higher-end carbon or anti-allergen options nudging toward the upper part of that range.
Price Differences by Model Year and Engine
The Audi Q7 has gone through several generations and engine configurations, and while prices are broadly similar, the exact filter design and part number can influence cost and availability.
First Generation (Approx. 2007–2015, Depending on Market)
The first-gen Q7 (often with 3.0 TDI, 3.6 FSI, 4.2 FSI, and other engines) typically uses conventional rectangular or panel-style engine filters.
The following list describes typical price patterns for first-generation Q7 air filters, reflecting current aftermarket and OEM pricing trends:
- Engine air filter: commonly around $25–$60 aftermarket, $60–$90 OEM
- Cabin air filter: typically $20–$50, depending on carbon vs non-carbon
- Diesel-specific variants: some TDI models may use slightly more specialized filters, often on the higher side of the same ranges
For older Q7s in this generation, owners often benefit from wide aftermarket support, which helps keep prices moderate despite the vehicle’s premium positioning.
Second Generation (Approx. 2016–2019)
The second-generation Q7 introduced more advanced drivetrains and updated engine bays, but air filter pricing remains broadly similar to the earlier models.
The next list illustrates the cost range that many second-generation Q7 owners encounter when replacing engine and cabin filters:
- Engine air filter: roughly $30–$70 for quality aftermarket units; up to $100+ for genuine Audi or performance options
- Cabin air filter: approx. $25–$60, with carbon filters at the upper end
- Regional variation: European markets may see slightly higher OEM pricing but strong aftermarket alternatives in similar euro ranges
In practice, the second-generation Q7 does not introduce major cost jumps for filters, but the higher price of dealership servicing can make the total bill feel steeper compared with do-it-yourself replacement.
Latest Generation / Facelift Models (2020–Present)
Facelifted and newest Q7 models—often with mild-hybrid technology and updated interiors—continue to use conventional replaceable filters, but the latest part numbers can sometimes be slightly costlier at dealers until aftermarket options catch up.
The following list provides an overview of what owners of newer Q7s are likely to pay for filters as of late 2024:
- Engine air filter: frequently around $35–$80 aftermarket, $70–$110 OEM/genuine
- Cabin air filter: generally $30–$70, particularly for high-spec carbon or “premium” filters
- Availability factor: for very new model years, selection may be limited, which can keep prices nearer the top of the range
Over time, as more aftermarket suppliers release compatible parts, prices for the latest Q7 filters typically begin moving closer to the levels seen in earlier generations.
DIY vs. Dealership: Total Replacement Cost
Beyond the price of the filter itself, installation costs significantly affect how much you will pay overall. Owners can often save money by replacing filters themselves, but many still choose dealer or independent workshop service for convenience.
Typical Labor Costs
Labor time varies slightly by model year, but both the engine and cabin filter are usually considered straightforward maintenance items.
The following list summarizes common labor charges reported by service centers and dealer menus for Audi Q7 air filter replacement:
- Engine air filter labor: usually billed as 0.3–0.6 hour, or about $40–$80 at typical shop rates
- Cabin filter labor: often 0.2–0.5 hour, translating to $30–$70
- Dealer vs. independent shop: dealers tend to charge on the high end of this range; independent workshops may be 20–40% cheaper
When combined with parts, this means dealer pricing for one filter replacement service can reach low three figures, while independent shops and DIY owners commonly keep costs much lower.
Total Estimated Cost by Scenario
Depending on how and where you replace your filters, the final bill can vary widely from a modest parts-only expense to a more substantial service charge.
The following list outlines approximate total costs for typical scenarios, using current price ranges for a Q7 in North America and similar markets:
- DIY engine air filter replacement: about $25–$80 for parts only
- DIY cabin filter replacement: about $20–$70 for parts only
- Dealer engine air filter replacement: commonly $90–$180 parts and labor
- Dealer cabin filter replacement: often $80–$160 parts and labor
- Independent shop replacement (per filter): typically $70–$140 total
These ranges indicate that the majority of the cost difference lies not in the filter itself but in where and how the work is carried out, making DIY replacement an attractive option for many owners.
How to Identify the Correct Filter (And Avoid Overpaying)
Because the Audi Q7 spans multiple years, trims, and engines, it is important to match the exact filter specification to your vehicle. Doing so helps ensure proper fitment and avoids paying for incorrect or overly expensive parts.
Key Details You Need
A small amount of preparation can simplify finding the right part and give you a clear idea of an appropriate price range before buying.
The list below highlights the main pieces of information that will help you locate the correct Audi Q7 air filter at a reasonable cost:
- Model year (e.g., 2013, 2018, 2022)
- Engine type and size (e.g., 3.0 TFSI, 3.0 TDI, 2.0 TFSI)
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), often required for exact OE part number lookup
- Region or market (US, EU, UK, etc.), since part numbers can vary by market
- Preference for OEM vs. aftermarket, which influences cost and brand selection
With these details, you can cross-check prices across dealers, independent shops, and online retailers, making it easier to spot offers that are either unusually cheap (potentially low quality) or unnecessarily expensive.
What Affects Price Beyond the Car Itself
Even for the same Audi Q7 model, prices can differ noticeably depending on brand, filter technology, and where you shop.
Brand and Filter Technology
Not all air filters are created equal. Some are basic paper designs, while others use advanced media or reusable materials aimed at performance or longevity.
The following list covers common factors that can drive price up or down for Q7 air filters:
- OEM / genuine Audi parts: often more expensive, typically positioned in the upper price range
- Reputable aftermarket brands (e.g., Mann, Mahle, Bosch, Hengst): usually balance quality and cost effectively
- Performance / reusable filters (e.g., K&N): higher upfront cost, marketed as long-term or performance upgrades
- Carbon / odor-absorbing cabin filters: cost more than plain paper but offer better odor and pollution filtration
By understanding which features matter most for your driving conditions, you can decide whether the added cost of premium or performance filters is justified for your Audi Q7.
How Often Should You Replace an Audi Q7 Air Filter?
Replacement intervals influence how much you will spend over time, even if individual filters are reasonably priced.
General Intervals and Real-World Adjustments
While the exact schedule depends on region and usage, there are broadly accepted time and mileage guidelines for both engine and cabin filters.
The following list outlines commonly recommended replacement intervals for Audi Q7 filters, reflecting manufacturer guidance and workshop practice:
- Engine air filter: typically every 20,000–30,000 miles (about 30,000–50,000 km), or sooner in dusty conditions
- Cabin air filter: often every 12,000–20,000 miles (about 20,000–30,000 km) or once per year
- Severe conditions (heavy traffic, pollution, dust): may warrant more frequent changes for both filters
Following these intervals helps maintain performance and comfort while keeping the long-term cost of filters predictable and manageable for Q7 owners.
Summary
An air filter for an Audi Q7 generally costs between $20 and $120 for the part alone, with typical real-world spending landing around $25–$60 for both engine and cabin filters when using reputable aftermarket brands. Dealership replacement, once labor is added, often pushes the final bill for each filter into the $80–$180 range, while independent shops and DIY approaches can significantly reduce that figure. Prices vary modestly by model year, engine type, filter brand, and technology (standard vs. carbon or performance), but staying within these ranges and cross-checking part numbers using your VIN is usually enough to avoid overpaying and to ensure the correct fit for your Audi Q7.


