Where is the air filter on a 2017 Audi A4?

There are two air filters in a 2017 Audi A4: the engine air filter located in the engine bay on the driver’s side, and the cabin air filter located behind the glove box on the passenger side. Replacing both at the recommended intervals helps the engine breathe clean air and maintains interior air quality. This guide outlines where to find each filter and how to replace them.

Engine air filter location

What you’ll need to replace the engine air filter: disposable gloves for cleanliness, a flat-head screwdriver or trim tool if needed to lift clips, and a replacement engine air filter that matches the 2.0L TFSI engine in your A4.

1. Open the hood and secure it with the prop rod.


2. Locate the large rectangular air filter housing on the driver’s side of the engine bay, near the front of the vehicle where the intake hose enters the box.


3. Release the fasteners or clips on the lid of the air box. Some models use multiple clips; others may have screws. Carefully remove the lid.


4. Lift out the old air filter element and note the correct orientation (the filter usually has an arrow or notch indicating airflow).


5. Wipe the inside of the housing with a clean rag to remove loose debris, ensuring the seals are intact.


6. Insert the new filter into the housing in the same orientation as the old one, making sure it sits evenly and seals against the housing.


7. Reattach the air box lid and secure all clips or screws. Reconnect any hoses that were loosened during access.


8. Close the hood and run the engine briefly to confirm there are no abnormal sounds or leaks.

Replacing the engine air filter at the interval recommended in your owner’s manual helps maintain performance and fuel efficiency. In typical driving conditions, expect to replace it every 30,000 miles or more often in dusty or harsh environments.

Cabin air filter location

What you’ll need to replace the cabin air filter: a flashlight to see into the glove box area, and a replacement cabin filter suitable for the A4’s HVAC system. Some setups use a charcoal or dual-layer filter for improved odor control.

1. Open the glove box and gently push in the sides to release the dampers, allowing the glove box to drop down fully and expose the filter housing behind it.


2. Remove the filter housing cover; this may be secured with a small clip or a screw depending on trim level.


3. Take out the old cabin air filter. If debris has accumulated in the housing, wipe it clean.


4. Install the new cabin air filter with the airflow arrows pointing toward the blower motor, ensuring it seats properly in the housing.


5. Reattach the housing cover and close the glove box, making sure the dampers engage correctly.


6. Turn on the HVAC system to verify that air flows smoothly through the new filter and there are no noises indicating misalignment.

Cabin air filter replacement is commonly recommended every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or about once a year, depending on climate, dust levels, and driving conditions. In dusty or high-traffic areas, more frequent changes can help maintain interior air quality and HVAC performance.

Summary

The 2017 Audi A4 houses two separate air filters: an engine air filter in the engine bay on the driver’s side, and a cabin air filter behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access each filter by following the steps above, and consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual for the exact recommended replacement intervals and any model-specific nuances. Regular replacement supports engine efficiency and clean cabin air.