Where to Find the Air Filter on a Hyundai Santa Fe

The engine air filter on most Hyundai Santa Fe models is located inside a black plastic air filter box (air cleaner housing) in the engine bay, usually on the driver’s side near the front, while the cabin air filter is behind the glove box inside the passenger compartment. Below is a detailed guide to help you identify both filters and access them safely.

Understanding the Two Main Filters: Engine vs. Cabin

Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles have at least two user-serviceable filters that people commonly refer to as “the air filter”: the engine air filter and the cabin air (pollen) filter. Each plays a different role in the vehicle’s performance and comfort, and they are located in different areas of the car.

The Engine Air Filter Location

The engine air filter cleans the air that goes into the engine for combustion. Keeping it clean helps maintain performance, fuel economy, and engine longevity. In nearly all Hyundai Santa Fe generations (roughly from early 2000s through the current models), the location is broadly similar, though the exact layout can vary slightly by model year and engine type.

The following list outlines where the engine air filter is typically found on Hyundai Santa Fe models and how to visually identify it under the hood.

• General location: In the engine bay, usually on the driver’s side or slightly toward the center front, inside a black plastic box known as the air cleaner housing.
• Shape and appearance: A rectangular or square black plastic box with metal clips, screws, or plastic tabs holding the top cover in place.
• Connection to intake tubing: A large plastic intake tube or duct runs from the air filter box toward the engine’s throttle body, and often another duct brings air from the front grille or fender area to the box.
• Labeling and markings: Some models have small markings or arrows on the housing indicating airflow direction or “AIR FILTER” text molded into the plastic.
• Battery and fuse box landmarks: On many Santa Fe models, the air filter box sits close to the battery or the main fuse/relay box, making it easy to distinguish from the more compact electrical components.

Together, these visual cues help you reliably identify the engine air filter box, regardless of minor layout differences between years or trims.

Model-Year Trends: Where It Is on Recent Santa Fe Generations

While Hyundai has kept the basic layout fairly consistent, subtle changes between generations can affect where you look first. The following overview summarizes typical placement on recent Santa Fe generations sold in North America and many other markets.

• 1st & 2nd generation (early 2000s–2012): The engine air filter housing is usually on the driver’s side front of the engine bay, near the headlight, with an intake snorkel leading to the grille area.
• 3rd generation (2013–2018): Still found toward the driver’s side/front area; the plastic housing is rectangular with metal clips or screws, easily visible when you open the hood.
• 4th generation (2019–2023): The box remains in the front half of the engine compartment, typically driver’s side or central-left, but engine covers and plastic trim can partially conceal it; look for the large intake tube leading from the box to the engine.
• 5th generation (2024–present, redesigned model): The layout remains similar in concept: a black air cleaner housing in the engine bay, usually on the driver’s side/front, though styling covers can make it look more integrated. The serviceable filter is still under a clipped or screwed lid.

Despite cosmetic changes between generations, the air filter remains in an easily accessible black housing in the front half of the engine bay, connected to obvious intake ducting.

Accessing the Engine Air Filter

Once you’ve identified the air cleaner housing, accessing the filter is usually straightforward. Always consult your specific owner’s manual for exact steps, but the general process is similar across Santa Fe models and modern Hyundai engines.

The following steps describe the typical procedure for reaching the engine air filter on a Hyundai Santa Fe.

1. Open the hood safely: Pull the hood release inside the cabin, then release the secondary safety latch at the front of the vehicle and secure the hood with the prop rod (if not equipped with struts).
2. Locate the air filter box: Identify the black plastic housing with a large intake tube running to the engine; confirm by spotting clips or screws holding the top cover.
3. Release clips or remove screws: Undo the metal clips by hand, or use a screwdriver or socket to remove any screws or bolts holding the lid in place.
4. Lift the top cover: Gently lift or hinge back the cover. On many models it will pivot upward on one side while staying attached on the other.
5. Remove the old filter: Take out the rectangular air filter element, noting its orientation and how it fits into the housing.
6. Inspect the housing: Check the inside of the box for leaves, dust, or debris and wipe it clean with a dry cloth if needed; do not allow anything to fall into the intake duct leading to the engine.
7. Install the new filter: Insert the new filter in the same orientation, ensuring the rubber or foam sealing edge sits flush around the perimeter with no gaps.
8. Reinstall the cover: Lower the lid carefully, making sure it seats correctly and doesn’t pinch the filter, then reattach all clips, screws, or bolts securely.

Following these steps helps ensure you access and replace the engine air filter correctly, maintaining good airflow and protecting the engine from contaminants.

Finding the Cabin Air Filter (Behind the Glove Box)

In addition to the engine air filter, Hyundai Santa Fe models are equipped with a cabin air filter that cleans the air entering through the HVAC system. This filter is not located in the engine bay; it is typically hidden behind the glove box and is separate from the engine’s intake system.

Cabin Air Filter Location

The cabin air filter’s location has been relatively consistent on the Santa Fe, especially on later models, and is designed for straightforward access without tools or with only basic ones.

The following points explain where to find the cabin air filter in most Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles.

• General area: Behind the glove box on the passenger side of the dashboard.
• Access panel: After you lower or remove the glove box, you’ll see a rectangular plastic access door on the HVAC case; this typically houses the cabin air filter.
• Clips or tabs: The access door is usually retained by simple side clips or top/bottom tabs that can be pressed inward to release the cover.
• Filter orientation markings: The filter itself often has arrows on the side indicating airflow direction, which generally points downward or inward toward the cabin system.
• Model year continuity: From roughly the mid-2000s through current Santa Fe models, the basic behind-the-glove-box location has remained standard, though the shape and size of the filter can vary.

Knowing this consistent behind-the-glove-box location makes it easy to find and service the cabin air filter across multiple Santa Fe generations.

Accessing the Cabin Air Filter

Accessing the cabin filter requires working inside the passenger compartment and handling the glove box. The overall procedure is similar across many Hyundai models, though exact details differ slightly by year.

The following steps outline the typical method of accessing the cabin air filter on a Hyundai Santa Fe.

1. Empty the glove box: Remove items that could fall out once the glove box is lowered or removed.
2. Detach the glove box stops: Open the glove box fully and locate the side stoppers or dampers that limit how far it swings. On many models, gently pushing in on the sides of the glove box allows it to drop further down.
3. Lower or remove the glove box: Let the glove box pivot down so you can see the HVAC housing behind it; on some models, a small cord or damper arm may need to be unclipped.
4. Locate the filter access door: Find the rectangular plastic cover directly in front of you, usually with small tabs on the sides.
5. Release the cover: Press the tabs inward or upward and pull the cover straight off to expose the cabin air filter.
6. Remove the old filter: Slide the filter straight out, noting the orientation and airflow arrow printed on its frame.
7. Insert the new filter: Install the replacement filter with the airflow arrow pointing in the same direction as the original (commonly downward), making sure it seats evenly in the slot.
8. Reattach the cover and glove box: Snap the access door back into place, then lift the glove box and re-engage any side stoppers and damper arms before closing it.

This procedure allows you to reach and replace the cabin air filter, ensuring cleaner air in the passenger compartment and optimal HVAC performance.

Why Knowing the Filter Locations Matters

Understanding exactly where your Hyundai Santa Fe’s air filters are located empowers you to perform basic maintenance tasks yourself and diagnose symptoms like reduced airflow, musty smells in the cabin, or decreased engine responsiveness. Both the engine and cabin filters are relatively inexpensive, yet they play outsized roles in comfort, efficiency, and component protection.

The following list outlines the main benefits of correctly identifying and servicing these filters.

• Engine protection: A clean engine air filter prevents dust, sand, and debris from entering the combustion chambers, reducing wear on internal components.
• Fuel economy and power: Proper airflow helps the engine maintain the right air–fuel mixture, supporting better responsiveness and potentially improved fuel efficiency.
• Cabin comfort and health: The cabin filter removes pollen, dust, and particulates from incoming air, improving air quality for occupants, especially those with allergies.
• HVAC efficiency: A clean cabin filter supports stronger airflow through the vents, enabling the heater and air conditioner to work more effectively.
• Cost savings: Knowing where the filters are located and how to access them allows many owners to perform replacements at home instead of paying for basic service visits.

These advantages highlight why locating both filters—and keeping them in good condition—is a practical part of routine vehicle care for any Santa Fe owner.

Summary

On a Hyundai Santa Fe, the engine air filter is located in the engine bay inside a black plastic air cleaner housing, typically on the driver’s side or front area, connected to the intake tube leading to the engine. The cabin air filter is separate and usually sits behind the glove box inside the passenger compartment, accessible through a small rectangular access door on the HVAC housing. Knowing these locations—and how to reach them—allows owners to maintain both engine performance and cabin air quality with simple, periodic filter replacements.

Where is your engine air filter located?

The engine air filter is located in a black plastic box, often called the airbox, typically found in the engine bay near the front or side of the engine. It is connected to a large air intake hose and is secured with clips or screws.
 
This video shows the location of the airbox and how to open it: 58sWheaton HondaYouTube · Sep 10, 2019
How to find it

• Open the hood: and look for a large black plastic box in the engine bay. 
• Identify the air intake hose: that leads to the box; this is a large tube running from the front of the car towards the engine. 
• The airbox is the housing: at the end of the intake hose, which contains the filter. 
• Note that older vehicles: with carburetors may have a large, round air cleaner housing on top of the engine. 

How to access it

• Remove the clips or screws: holding the airbox cover closed. 
• Lift the cover: carefully, as the plastic can be brittle. 
• Be mindful of any hoses or wiring: attached to the cover and move them out of the way, but avoid pulling on them. 
• On some vehicles, you may need to loosen a hose clamp on the intake duct to get enough clearance to remove the cover or the filter. 

How many air filters does a Hyundai Santa Fe have?

There are two primary air filters in your 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe HEV. The engine air filter is located in the engine bay and is used to filter out harmful and unpredictable particles that may cause damage to your vehicle’s engine.

Can I replace my engine air filter myself?

Yes, you can replace your engine air filter yourself; it’s a straightforward and manageable task for most DIYers that usually takes only a few minutes and may not require any tools. To do it, you will need to locate the air filter housing, open it by loosening clips or screws, remove the old filter, and install the new one, ensuring it is seated correctly before closing the housing. 
This video demonstrates the entire process of replacing an engine air filter: 59sDad, how do I?YouTube · Aug 31, 2024
What you’ll need

• A new, correct engine air filter for your vehicle
• A screwdriver or socket wrench (for some models)
• Shop rags or gloves (optional) 

Step-by-step guide

1. Locate the air filter housing: With the hood open, find the black plastic box, usually on the side or top of the engine. Check your owner’s manual if you have trouble finding it. 
2. Open the housing: Release the clips or unscrew the fasteners holding the cover in place. 
3. Remove the old filter: Take out the old filter and inspect it. If it looks dark, clogged, or full of debris, it needs to be replaced. 
4. Install the new filter: Place the new filter into the housing, making sure it’s facing the same direction as the old one and is seated correctly. 
5. Close the housing: Securely re-attach the cover by snapping the clips back on or tightening the screws. 
6. Final check: Start your engine and listen to ensure everything sounds normal. If anything seems off, double-check that the filter and housing are properly sealed. 

What is the most common problem with the Hyundai Santa Fe?

Top Hyundai Santa Fe Problems

• Hesitation.
• No Sound from Speakers.
• Engine Stalling/Shutting Down While Driving (Crankshaft Position Sensor Issues)
• Stuttering Transmission.
• Engine Failure.
• Air Bag Issues.
• Paint Issues/Paint Coming Off.
• Fuel Level Sensor and Gauge Malfunction/Failure.