The air filter sits inside a rectangular plastic air-filter housing on the passenger side of the engine bay, with the intake hose running from the front grille into the box.
In these Camrys, you may have either a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter V6. The air-filter housing is similarly placed in the engine bay for both, but the exact layout can vary slightly by engine. This guide covers the common location and replacement steps.
Where to look in the engine bay
Use these cues to locate the air-filter box quickly.
- Look on the passenger (right) side of the engine bay, usually toward the outer fender area, where a rectangular black plastic box sits.
- From the grille or front of the car, a large plastic intake tube leads into this box, delivering air to the engine.
- The lid of the box is secured with metal clips (or screws on some trims); these hold the cover in place and allow access to the filter inside.
The air-filter housing on most 1997 Camrys is designed for easy access, so you can replace the filter without special tools in most cases. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual for the exact location in your trim level.
How to replace the air filter
Follow these steps to replace the air filter, ensuring proper fit and seal.
- Turn off the engine and disconnect the negative battery cable if you’re working near electrical components or after long drives. Open the hood and locate the air-filter box on the passenger side.
- Unclip or unscrew the lid of the air-filter box to access the filter element inside.
- Carefully lift out the old filter and note the orientation (the arrow on the filter should point toward the throttle body).
- Wipe the inside of the box with a clean rag to remove any dust or debris; avoid letting contaminants drop into the intake path.
- Insert the new filter with the correct orientation, ensuring it sits flat and seals around the edges.
- Reattach the lid and secure the clips or screws; ensure there are no gaps and the box is firmly closed. Reconnect the battery if you disconnected it.
Replacing the filter helps maintain engine efficiency and protects the intake from dirt. Always use the correct part for your engine code and trim level.
Model variations
Both the 2.2L four-cylinder (5S-FE) and the 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE) Camrys share the same general air-filter housing location in the engine bay, but some variations exist in mounting brackets or the routing of the intake hose. If you have a different trim or aftermarket intake, the housing may be slightly relocated, so consult the service manual if in doubt.
Maintenance tips
Regular checks are recommended. Consider replacing the air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles depending on driving conditions (dusty roads, highway speed, etc.). Inspect for cracks in the housing seals and tears in the filter itself. If you notice reduced performance or unusual engine sounds after replacement, recheck the seal and orientation.
Summary
On a 1997 Toyota Camry, the air filter sits in a rectangular plastic housing on the passenger side of the engine bay, with the intake hose from the grille feeding air into the box. Access is straightforward: unlock the clips or screws, remove the old element, insert a correctly oriented new filter, and reseal the box. Regular replacement keeps the engine breathing clean air and maintains performance.