The 2020 Chevy Silverado uses two primary air filters: one for the engine and one for the passenger cabin.
This article explains what those filters do, where to find them on a 2020 Silverado, and how to check or replace them to maintain performance and interior air quality.
Two filters in the Silverado: engine and cabin
Engine air filter
The engine air filter sits inside a black rectangular air intake box at the front of the engine bay. It protects the engine by filtering dust and debris from the air before it enters the intake manifold.
Steps to locate and replace the engine air filter:
- Open the hood and locate the large black air intake box, typically on the driver’s side of the engine bay.
- Release the clips or screws that hold the air box lid in place and lift the lid off.
- Remove the old filter and inspect it for heavy dirt or damage.
- Insert a new filter, ensuring the pleats are oriented correctly and that it seats fully in the housing.
- Reattach the lid and secure the clips or screws firmly.
- Close the hood and run the engine briefly to confirm there are no leaks or abnormal sounds.
Replacing the engine air filter helps maintain engine performance and fuel efficiency by ensuring clean, adequate airflow into the intake system.
Cabin air filter
The cabin air filter is part of the HVAC system and cleans the air entering the passenger compartment. In most 2020 Silverado models, it’s located behind the glove box on the passenger side and may require removing the glove box to access the filter cover.
Steps to locate and replace the cabin air filter:
- Park the vehicle, turn off the ignition, and open the glove box.
- If needed, disconnect the glove box stops or hinges to lower the panel and reveal the cabin air filter cover.
- Remove the cover holding the cabin filter in place and take out the old filter.
- Install a new cabin filter with the airflow arrows pointing in the correct direction as indicated on the filter.
- Reattach the filter cover and restore the glove box to its normal position.
- Run the HVAC system briefly to verify proper airflow and no unusual odors.
Keeping the cabin filter fresh helps maintain HVAC efficiency and interior air quality, which is especially important for drivers with allergies or in dusty conditions.
Maintenance tips and reminders
To keep both filters performing well, consider these routine practices:
- Check both filters during regular vehicle servicing or at least once a year if you drive in heavy dust or pollen-prone areas.
- Replace the engine air filter more frequently under severe driving conditions (dusty roads, construction zones) than under normal conditions.
- Inspect the cabin air filter for excessive dirt or clogging; replace it when airflow from the vents noticeably decreases or odors persist.
- Use the vehicle’s owner manual as the reference for specific replacement intervals and filter part numbers.
By staying on top of these replacements, you help ensure optimal engine performance and a comfortable, clean interior environment in your Silverado.
Summary
In summary, the 2020 Chevy Silverado has two air filters: one engine air filter and one cabin air filter. The engine filter sits in the engine bay’s air box, while the cabin filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side. Replacement intervals vary by driving conditions, so consult the owner’s manual and perform inspections regularly to maintain performance and air quality.