The 2023 Kia K5 lets you replace both the engine air filter and the cabin air filter yourself. The engine air filter sits in a rectangular housing under the hood, while the cabin filter sits behind the glove box. Both replacements are straightforward and use standard filters with basic hand tools if needed.
Engine air filter
This section explains how to locate and replace the engine air filter, the most common maintenance item for engine breathing, to ensure optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
- Park on a level surface, engine off, and engage the parking brake. Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing, a rectangular black plastic box usually toward the front side of the engine bay.
- Release the clips or screws securing the housing lid. Carefully lift the lid to expose the old filter.
- Remove the old filter and inspect the inside of the housing for debris or dirt. Wipe the interior with a clean, dry cloth if needed.
- Insert the new engine air filter, ensuring it seats flat and oriented correctly according to any arrows or labeling on the filter. The filter should sit snugly with no gaps.
- Secure the housing lid back in place and re-engage the clips or screws. Double-check that the lid is firmly closed to prevent unfiltered air leaks.
- Close the hood and start the engine to verify smooth operation and listen for any unusual noises.
Regularly replacing the engine air filter—typically every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on driving conditions—helps maintain performance and fuel economy. If you notice reduced acceleration or a drop in fuel efficiency, consider inspecting or replacing sooner.
Cabin air filter
This section covers replacing the cabin air filter, which protects the interior from dust, pollen, and odors and is located behind the glove box.
- With the glove box open, locate the cabin air filter access panel behind or near the glove box. Some models require you to release a right-side stopper or gently squeeze the glove box to access the panel.
- Remove the cover or panel securing the cabin filter. Take out the old filter and inspect the housing for any debris.
- Install the new cabin air filter, making sure the filter is oriented so the airflow arrows point in the direction of the cabin airflow (usually toward the front of the vehicle).
- Reattach the filter cover and any panels you removed. Reinstall the glove box by aligning its hinges and pressing until it clicks into place.
- Turn on the vehicle’s climate control to confirm air is flowing properly and there are no unusual odors indicating a poor seal.
Cabin filter replacement is commonly recommended every 15,000 to 25,000 miles, depending on environment (city driving with heavy pollution or areas with lots of dust may require more frequent changes). Replacing it can improve HVAC efficiency and air quality inside the cabin.
Summary
For a 2023 Kia K5, both the engine air filter and cabin air filter are user-serviceable and designed for simple DIY replacement. The engine filter lives under the hood in a rectangular housing and is secured with clips or screws, while the cabin filter sits behind the glove box and is accessed by removing a panel or stops. Use a OEM or equivalent filter for best performance, keep the housing clean during replacement, and reset your expectations based on driving conditions. Regular checks and timely replacements help sustain engine efficiency and interior air quality with minimal downtime.