The engine air filter sits in a rectangular housing under the hood on the driver’s side, while the cabin air filter is tucked behind the glove box on the passenger side. Here’s how to find and replace both filters in a 2017 Ford Escape.
Engine air filter: location and access
To locate and replace the engine air filter, follow these steps.
- Park on a flat surface and turn off the engine. Open the hood and secure it.
- Find the engine air filter housing, a rectangular black box typically on the driver’s side of the engine bay. If your vehicle has an engine cover, you may need to remove it to access the housing.
- Release the clips or screws securing the housing lid. Some models use simple metal clasps, others use Phillips-head screws.
- Lift the lid and remove the old filter. Note the orientation of the filter for correct installation.
- Clean out any loose dirt or debris from inside the housing with a rag. Do not use compressed air unless the manual allows it.
- Insert the new filter with the airflow arrows pointing toward the back of the vehicle (toward the engine). Recheck the fit.
- Reinstall the housing lid and secure the clips or screws.
- Close the hood and, if desired, start the engine to confirm there are no unseated components.
Engine air filter replacement is a routine maintenance task that helps your Escape run smoothly and efficiently. Ensure the housing is sealed properly to prevent unfiltered air from entering the intake.
Cabin air filter: location and access
To locate and replace the cabin air filter, follow these steps.
- Open the passenger-side glove box and remove its contents.
- Gently squeeze the sides of the glove box to release its stops so the box can drop down. In some models you may need to remove a damper or a small retaining pin.
- Look behind the glove box for the cabin air filter housing. Remove the cover by releasing the tabs or removing a small screw.
- Take out the old cabin air filter. Note the orientation of the filter so you can install the new one correctly (airflow arrows typically point toward the HVAC unit).
- Clean the housing area with a cloth and inspect for debris.
- Insert the new filter with the arrows facing into the HVAC system. Reinstall the housing cover.
- Raise the glove box until it clicks back into place and close it securely.
Cabin air filter replacement helps maintain interior air quality, especially for drivers with allergies or in dusty environments.
Maintenance considerations
Replacement intervals can vary by driving conditions. Ford generally recommends replacing the engine air filter roughly every 30,000 miles under normal conditions, and the cabin air filter about every 15,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. In dusty or harsh environments, inspect and replace more frequently.
Tips and indicators
Watch for signs that a filter needs replacement: decreased engine performance or fuel efficiency for the engine air filter, and reduced airflow, musty odors, or increased allergy symptoms for the cabin filter. If you’re unsure about the process, consult your dealer or a qualified technician.
Summary
In a 2017 Ford Escape, the engine air filter is located in the under-hood rectangular housing on the driver’s side, while the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side. Replacement is a straightforward, do-it-yourself task with basic tools—follow the steps outlined above and consult your owner's manual for exact intervals and any model-specific nuances.