Two filters matter for a 2017 Sonata: the engine air filter in the engine bay and the cabin air filter behind the glove box. Replacing them when dirty helps engine performance and interior air quality.
In detail, the engine air filter sits in a rectangular housing in the front portion of the engine bay on the passenger side, while the cabin filter lives behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access requires basic tools and following proper orientation for each new filter.
Engine air filter location
To begin, identify the engine air filter box and prepare for replacement with the right filter size.
Tools and parts you'll need
The following items help you access and replace the engine air filter.
- New engine air filter compatible with the 2017 Sonata
- Flat-head screwdriver or small Phillips driver (if clips or screws are used)
- Clean rag to wipe the housing interior
- Optional: Torx driver if your model uses Torx screws
Having the proper filter size and a basic toolkit on hand will make replacement straightforward.
Follow these steps to replace the engine air filter.
- Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing on the passenger side of the engine bay, near the fender and connected to a large intake hose.
- Release the clips or remove the screws securing the lid of the air filter box, then lift the lid off.
- Remove the old filter and note the orientation—the filter should sit with the arrow pointing toward the engine.
- Wipe out any dust or debris from the filter housing with a clean rag, ensuring the seal is clean and undamaged.
- Insert the new filter into the housing in the same orientation as the old one, making sure it seats flat and fully covered by the lid.
- Reattach the lid and secure the clips or screws snugly. Close the hood.
Regular inspection and replacement of the engine air filter can improve throttle response and fuel efficiency.
Cabin air filter location
Cabin air filtration keeps interior air clean and is generally easier to access but requires glove box access.
Tools and parts you'll need
These items are typically sufficient for replacing the cabin air filter.
- New cabin air filter (correct size for 2017 Sonata)
- Trim removal tool or flat screwdriver (to ease glove box panel removal)
- Clean rag
Having the right tools protects the interior surfaces from damage during removal of the glove box panel.
Follow these steps to replace the cabin air filter.
- Open the glove box and carefully release the end stops or dampers so the box can drop down or swing open, depending on your trim.
- Behind the glove box, locate the cabin air filter cover or panel and unclip or unscrew it.
- Remove the old filter and check its direction arrow; note how it was oriented in the housing.
- Insert the new cabin air filter with the arrows pointing in the correct direction (toward the blower).
- Reattach the filter cover, re-seat the glove box by lifting it back into place, and close the glove box.
Replacing the cabin filter periodically helps prevent musty odors and reduces dust and allergens inside the car.
Summary
In the 2017 Hyundai Sonata, there are two filters to monitor: the engine air filter in the engine bay and the cabin air filter behind the glove box. Both are replaceable with common tools and a little patience, typically every 15,000–30,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Regular maintenance keeps the engine breathing clean air and the cabin comfortable.