The 2020 Nissan Sentra uses two different air filters: an engine air filter and a cabin air filter. The engine filter part number is commonly 16546-ED000, while the cabin filter part number is commonly 27277-1J01A; exact numbers can vary by market and production batch, so verify with your VIN or the official parts catalog.
Two filters, two numbers: engine vs cabin
In cars like the Sentra, it’s important to distinguish between the engine air filter that protects the intake and the cabin air filter that cleans air entering the interior. Below are the typical numbers used by Nissan for the 2020 model, with notes on verification.
Engine air filter part number
Engine air filters are installed in the engine bay and need replacement as part of routine maintenance. The following part numbers are commonly cited for the 2020 Sentra in official Nissan catalogs and dealer stock.
- 16546-ED000
- 16546-ED00A
Note: The exact number can vary by production date, regional market, and whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts. Always confirm with Nissan Parts or your dealer using your VIN.
Cabin air filter part number
Cabin air filters clean the air that enters the cabin through the HVAC system. The two numbers commonly found in Nissan catalogs for the 2020 Sentra are:
- 27277-1J01A
- 27277-1J00A
As with engine filters, cabin filter numbers can differ by market or production run. Check the dealer's parts lookup with your VIN to be certain you get the correct filter.
How to verify the exact part for your car
Because part numbers can vary by region, trim, and production date, the most reliable way to get the correct air filter numbers is to verify using the car’s VIN and a trusted parts catalog. Here are practical steps:
- Locate your VIN on the dashboard near the windshield or in your vehicle registration.
- Enter the VIN on Nissan’s official parts site or a reputable parts retailer (e.g., NissanPartsDeal, AutoZone) to pull exact part numbers.
- Cross-check the displayed numbers with your current filter and replacement interval menu in the owner’s manual.
With the correct part numbers confirmed, you can order the filters and follow the manufacturer’s replacement instructions for proper fit and performance.
Replacement tips
Replacing the engine and cabin air filters is a straightforward maintenance task that improves engine efficiency and interior air quality. Here are quick tips to ensure a proper replacement:
- Always work with the engine off and the car parked on a level surface.
- Inspect the old filters for signs of excessive dirt, oil, or moisture to assess replacement timing.
- Seal the filter housings properly to prevent unfiltered air from bypassing the filter.
Regular maintenance intervals vary by driving conditions, but a typical guideline is every 15,000–30,000 miles for cabin filters and every 30,000–40,000 miles for engine air filters, subject to regional recommendations.
Summary
For the 2020 Nissan Sentra, there are two separate air filters with distinct part numbers: engine air filter numbers generally cited as 16546-ED000 (and sometimes 16546-ED00A), and cabin air filter numbers around 27277-1J01A (also seen as 27277-1J00A). Always verify the exact numbers using your VIN and a trusted parts catalog to ensure you order the correct filters for your vehicle's region and production date.