What a Purolator air filter does and why the brand matters
A Purolator air filter is a replacement engine air filter made by Purolator, a filtration company owned by Esterline Technologies. The filter sits in your engine's air intake system and traps dust, pollen, and debris before air reaches your engine. Purolator makes filters for most vehicle makes and models, and they are sold at auto parts stores, online retailers, and some dealerships.
The reason Purolator matters is that the company has been making filters since 1948, and their filters are engineered to fit specific vehicle models precisely. A filter that does not fit correctly can allow unfiltered air into your engine, which defeats the purpose. Purolator publishes cross-reference guides so you can find the exact model number for your vehicle, and their filters come with instructions for installation.
You do not have to use a Purolator filter — other brands like Fram, Mann-Filter, and K&N also make engine air filters. But if you choose Purolator, you are choosing a filter from a company that specializes in filtration and has a long track record in the industry.
Key Takeaways
- Purolator air filters are designed to fit specific vehicle makes and models, so you must know your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size before ordering.
- The filter's job is to trap dust and debris before air enters your engine, and a clogged filter reduces engine performance and fuel economy.
- Purolator offers different filter types — standard pleated filters, high-flow filters, and cabin air filters — each suited to different driving conditions.
- Most engine air filters should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, though this varies by vehicle and driving environment.
- You can install a Purolator air filter yourself in most vehicles using only basic tools, and the process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.
How to find the right Purolator filter for your vehicle
Start by gathering your vehicle's information: the year, make, model, and engine size. You can find the engine size on your vehicle's door jamb label, in your owner's manual, or on the engine itself. Once you have this information, visit Purolator's website and use their filter finder tool, or call an auto parts store and give them your vehicle details.
The parts store will give you a Purolator part number — something like PL14670 or PL25010. Write this number down. Do not guess or buy a filter based on a photo; filters that look similar may not fit your specific engine. If you order online, enter your vehicle information into the retailer's search tool, and the system will show you only filters that fit.
If you are replacing a cabin air filter (which filters air inside your car, not air going to the engine), the process is the same: get your vehicle details and use the finder tool. Cabin air filters are different from engine air filters and are not interchangeable.
Types of Purolator air filters and when to use each one
Standard pleated filters are the most common type. They use a pleated paper material to trap particles and are designed for normal driving conditions. These filters are affordable and work well for most drivers. Purolator's standard line includes their basic filters and their PurolatorONE line, which the company claims lasts longer than their basic filters.
High-flow filters are designed to allow more air into the engine while still filtering out debris. These filters are marketed toward drivers who want better engine performance or who drive in dusty conditions. Purolator's PurolatorBOSS line is their high-flow option. High-flow filters cost more than standard filters but may last longer in harsh environments.
Cabin air filters clean the air that comes through your vehicle's heating and air conditioning system. If you notice a musty smell when you turn on the AC, or if the air flow feels weak, your cabin air filter may be clogged. Cabin air filters are replaced the same way as engine air filters and should be checked every 12,000 to 15,000 miles.
How to install a Purolator air filter yourself
Most engine air filters can be replaced without tools or with only a screwdriver. Open your hood and locate the air filter box — it is usually a large plastic container near the engine. The box has a lid held down by clips or bolts. Release the clips or unscrew the bolts and lift the lid off.
Remove the old filter and note which direction it is facing — the new filter must go in the same way. Look at the new Purolator filter; one side may have an arrow or label showing the correct direction. Slide the new filter into the box, making sure it sits flat and fits snugly against the sides. Replace the lid and find the clips or bolts.
For cabin air filters, the process is similar but the location varies by vehicle. Some cabin filters are behind the glove box, others are under the hood. Check your owner's manual for the exact location. If you are uncomfortable doing this yourself, an auto shop can install the filter for $20 to $50 in labor, plus the cost of the filter.
How often to replace your air filter and signs it needs changing
Most manufacturers recommend replacing your engine air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. If you drive in dusty conditions — unpaved roads, desert climates, or areas with heavy construction — you may need to replace it more often, sometimes as frequently as every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. Check your owner's manual for the recommended interval for your specific vehicle.
You can also inspect the filter visually. Remove the air filter box lid and look at the filter. If it is dark gray or black and you cannot see light through it, it is clogged and should be replaced. A clogged filter reduces fuel economy, makes the engine work harder, and can trigger your check engine light.
Cabin air filters typically need replacement every 12,000 to 15,000 miles as well, but this varies by driving environment. If you notice weak air flow from your vents or a musty smell, the cabin filter is likely clogged.
Purolator air filter pricing and where to buy
Purolator air filter prices vary by filter type and vehicle model. A standard engine air filter typically costs between $15 and $35. High-flow filters cost more, usually $25 to $50. Cabin air filters range from $15 to $40. Prices are higher for luxury vehicles and some trucks because those filters are larger or more specialized.
You can buy Purolator filters at AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA, Advance Auto Parts, Walmart, Amazon, and many other retailers. Prices vary slightly between retailers, so it is worth checking a few. Some auto parts stores offer installation for free if you buy the filter from them; others charge a small fee. Dealerships also stock Purolator filters, though they may charge more than independent retailers.
Online retailers often have lower prices than brick-and-mortar stores, but you will pay for shipping unless you may have access to for free shipping. If you need the filter quickly, buying locally may be faster even if the price is slightly higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Purolator filter in a vehicle that originally came with a different brand?
Yes. As long as the Purolator filter is the correct part number for your vehicle, it will fit and work the same way as any other brand. The original equipment manufacturer (OEM) filter and aftermarket filters like Purolator are designed to the same specifications for each vehicle model.
What is the difference between PurolatorONE and PurolatorBOSS?
PurolatorONE is Purolator's standard pleated filter line, designed for normal driving. PurolatorBOSS is their high-flow line, which allows more air through while filtering. BOSS filters are marketed for performance and dusty conditions. Both are made by Purolator; the choice depends on your driving style and environment.
Do I need to replace the air filter box when I replace the filter?
No. The air filter box is a plastic container that holds the filter and lasts the life of the vehicle. You only replace the filter itself. If the box cracks or breaks, you can replace it separately, but this is rare.
Will a new air filter improve my gas mileage?
A clogged air filter can reduce fuel economy by forcing your engine to work harder. Replacing a clogged filter with a new one may improve mileage slightly, but the improvement depends on how clogged the old filter was. A new filter will not improve mileage beyond what your vehicle normally gets.
How do I know if I have the wrong size filter?
If the filter does not fit snugly in the air filter box, or if it does not sit flat, you have the wrong size. Do not force it in. Stop, remove it, and double-check the part number against your vehicle information. Installing the wrong filter can allow unfiltered air into your engine.