The engine air filter sits in the black plastic air intake box on the passenger side of the engine bay, while the cabin air filter (if your vehicle has one) is located behind the glove box inside the cabin.
Engine air filter location
The engine air filter is housed in a rectangular black plastic box on the passenger side of the engine compartment. An intake hose connects the box to the throttle body. Access is gained by releasing the clips or screws that hold the lid, lifting the lid, and removing the old filter for replacement.
What you’ll need
Gather these items before you start replacing the engine air filter: a new engine air filter of the correct size for a 2008 Liberty, and basic hand tools if your air box uses screws or clamps.
- Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine. Open the hood and locate the air intake box on the passenger side of the engine bay.
- Release the clips or remove the screws securing the lid of the air box, then lift the lid to expose the filter.
- Take out the old filter and note its orientation (the arrow on the filter should point toward the engine when installed).
- If the inside of the box is dirty, wipe it clean with a dry cloth. Do not use liquids inside the air box.
- Install the new filter in the same orientation as the old one, reseat the lid, and re-secure the clips or screws. Reconnect any hoses if you removed them.
- Close the hood and start the engine to verify there are no unusual noises or leaks around the air box.
Ensuring the air box is properly sealed helps prevent unfiltered air from entering the intake system and maintains engine performance.
Cabin air filter location
The cabin air filter, when equipped, is typically located behind the glove box inside the vehicle. Access involves lowering or removing the glove box to reach a rectangular filter housing. The filter should be installed with arrows pointing toward the blower motor to ensure proper airflow.
What you’ll need
Prepare these items before replacing the cabin air filter: a replacement cabin air filter designed for the 2008 Liberty, and a screwdriver if your glove box uses screws to access the filter housing. Depending on trim, gloves or a clean cloth can help with handling.
- Park and turn off the engine. Empty the contents of the glove box and gently release the limiting stops or dampers to allow the glove box to drop down.
- Locate and remove the cabin air filter cover by sliding or unscrewing, depending on your model.
- Carefully slide out the old filter and note its orientation.
- Wipe the housing cavity clean if needed, then insert the new filter with the correct orientation (arrows toward the blower motor).
- Reattach the filter cover, lift the glove box back into place, and ensure it is securely seated.
- Close the glove box and test the HVAC system to confirm proper airflow and no unusual noises.
Note: Some 2008 Liberty models or markets may not be equipped with a cabin air filter. If you cannot locate a filter behind the glove box, your vehicle may not have one.
Summary
For a 2008 Jeep Liberty, the engine air filter is found in the engine bay inside the rectangular air intake box on the passenger side, and the cabin air filter—when present—is located behind the glove box inside the cabin. Replacing either filter is a straightforward maintenance task involving a few basic tools, proper orientation, and re-securing lids or covers. Regular replacement helps maintain engine performance and cabin air quality.