Ram 1500 · Elgin CDJR · Streamwood, IL
Ram 1500 Air Filter Guide
When does a Ram 1500 need a new engine air filter or cabin air filter, and how do you change them? Here is what the 2026 Ram 1500 owner's manual says about the replacement intervals, the engine air filter steps for each engine and the cabin air filter steps behind the glove compartment.
30,000 miEngine air filter replacement, or 3 years
12,000 miCabin air filter replacement
Glove boxCabin filter sits in the fresh air inlet behind it
Arrow downCabin filter airflow arrow points toward the floor
The short answer
The 2026 Ram 1500 maintenance plan calls for replacing the engine air cleaner filter at 30,000, 60,000, 90,000, 120,000 and 150,000 miles (or 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 years, whichever comes first), and replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000 miles (19,000 km). In dusty or off-road use, the manual says to inspect the engine air cleaner at every oil change and replace it as necessary. The cabin air filter is in the fresh air inlet behind the glove compartment.
Ram 1500 air filter replacement intervals
From the 2026 Ram 1500 maintenance plan (mileage or time passed, whichever comes first):
| Filter | What the maintenance plan says |
|---|---|
| Engine air cleaner filter | Replace at 30,000, 60,000, 90,000, 120,000 and 150,000 miles (3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 years) |
| Engine air cleaner, dusty or off-road use | Inspect at every oil change interval shown by the oil change indicator; replace as necessary |
| Cabin air filter | Replace every 12,000 miles (19,000 km) |
From the 2026 Ram 1500 owner's manual (Maintenance Plan), read November 8, 2026.
The manual says only high quality Mopar certified engine air cleaner filters should be used, because the quality of replacement filters varies considerably. It also notes that more frequent maintenance may be needed in severe conditions, such as dusty areas and very short trip driving.
Replacing the engine air filter (3.0L SO, 3.6L and 5.7L engines)
The manual warns that the air induction system (air cleaner, hoses, etc.) can provide a measure of protection in the case of engine backfire. Do not remove it unless removal is necessary for repair or maintenance, and make sure no one is near the engine compartment before starting the vehicle with the air induction system removed.
The manual shows the engine air cleaner assembly and its fasteners for the 3.0L SO, 3.6L and 5.7L engines; check the engine compartment view for your engine in the manual. To remove the filter, use a suitable tool to loosen the engine air cleaner fasteners, then remove the engine air cleaner filter from the housing assembly. If dirt or debris is present, inspect and clean the housing before installing the new filter. Then:
- Install the engine air cleaner filter into the housing with the filter pleated material facing down and the seal on the top.
- Install the engine air cleaner filter cover onto the housing assembly.
- Tighten the fasteners on the engine air cleaner filter assembly.
From the 2026 Ram 1500 owner's manual (Engine Air Cleaner Filter), read November 8, 2026.
Replacing the engine air filter (3.0L HO engine)
On the 3.0L HO engine the manual shows the engine air cleaner filter held by a clamp fastener. To remove it, use a suitable tool to loosen the engine air cleaner clamp fastener and remove the engine air cleaner filter. Inspect and clean the housing if dirt or debris is present, then:
- Install the engine air cleaner filter into the housing.
- Tighten the clamp fastener on the engine air cleaner filter.
From the 2026 Ram 1500 owner's manual (Engine Air Cleaner Filter Removal and Installation, 3.0L HO Engine), read November 8, 2026.
Replacing the Ram 1500 cabin air filter
Do not remove the cabin air filter while the vehicle is running or while the ignition is in the ON/RUN mode. The manual warns that with the filter removed and the blower operating, the blower can contact hands and may propel dirt and debris into your eyes.
The cabin air filter is located in the fresh air inlet behind the glove compartment. The manual lists these steps:
- Open the glove compartment and remove all contents.
- With the glove compartment door open, remove the tension tether and tether clip by sliding the clip toward the face of the glove compartment door. Lift the clip out of the door and release it into the dash panel.
- Push inward on both sides of the glove compartment to release the travel stops on each side of the door.
- Disengage the glove compartment door from its hinges by opening it past the travel stop and pulling it toward you.
- Remove the filter cover by pushing in on the finger tabs on each end of the cover.
- Remove the cabin air filter by pulling it straight out of the housing.
- Install the new cabin air filter with the arrow on the filter pointing toward the floor. When installing the filter cover, press on each end until you hear an audible click.
- Reinstall the glove compartment on the hinges.
- Pull the tension tether outward and reinstall the glove compartment past the travel stops by pushing in on the glove compartment sides.
- Reattach the tension tether by inserting the tether clip in the glove compartment and sliding the clip away from the face of the door.
The cabin air filter is marked with an arrow that shows the airflow direction; the manual cautions that installing it the wrong way will mean it needs to be replaced more often. Make sure the glove compartment door hinges and travel stops are fully engaged. In its climate control section, the manual also says you can contact an authorized dealer to service your cabin air filter and have it replaced when needed.
From the 2026 Ram 1500 owner's manual (Cabin Air Filter Replacement; Climate Controls), read November 8, 2026.
Ram 1500 air filter service at Elgin CDJR
Want us to handle it? Our Ram service center and Express Lane handle air filters along with oil changes and checkups. See the Ram 1500 maintenance schedule or the new Ram 1500. Schedule service or see our service specials.
Our service department is open Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is closed Sunday. Elgin CDJR is at 1500 W. Lake St. in Streamwood. Get directions.
Ram 1500 air filter FAQ
How often should I change the engine air filter on a Ram 1500?
The 2026 Ram 1500 maintenance plan lists engine air cleaner filter replacement at 30,000, 60,000, 90,000, 120,000 and 150,000 miles, or 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 years, whichever comes first. In dusty or off-road use, inspect it at every oil change and replace it as necessary.
How often should I change the Ram 1500 cabin air filter?
Every 12,000 miles (19,000 km), according to the 2026 Ram 1500 maintenance plan.
Where is the cabin air filter on a Ram 1500?
In the fresh air inlet behind the glove compartment. You remove the glove compartment door from its hinges and push in the finger tabs on the filter cover to reach it.
Which way does the Ram 1500 cabin air filter go in?
With the arrow on the filter pointing toward the floor, according to the manual.
What engine air filter should I use?
The manual says only high quality Mopar certified filters should be used for the engine air cleaner.
What are your service hours?
Monday to Friday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. We are closed Sunday.
Bring your Ram 1500 to Streamwood
Visit Elgin CDJR at 1500 W. Lake St. in Streamwood.
Sources
The replacement intervals, filter guidance and replacement steps are from the 2026 Ram 1500 owner's manual on Mopar (PDF dated October 29, 2025), read November 8, 2026. Our address and service hours are from our own website, checked the same day.