Air Filter Replacement

[larryziegler]

I had to take the Beetle in for its emissions testing and it was time for an oil change. As it was about time to change the air filter, I took one that I had in inventory in my garage. I go to a locally owned quick lube shop (quick lube, full service car wash, detailing, and smog testing) that has been around for years (a local institution) and have also stood by their work when they do make the occasion booboo as will happen. They told me that its common for the CEL to come on when they remove the air filter for checking/replacement and they take no responsibilty for that. I told them to skip it then, and I'd see what folks say and recommend here, before I change it in my garage. What's the skinny on air filter replacement, if any?

[rcy]

Well, I've checked and replaced my air filter about 4 times in the past year (checked it when I bought the car, then replaced it with a k&n, then checked the k&n for leaks, then replaced the k&n with an OE filter) and I've never had a CEL. The only thing close to the air filter that could cause a CEL is the MAF sensor, but I don't see how replacing the air filter could damage that unless someone was being horrendously careless...

[Porkchop]

Same experience here as rcy. Changed the air filter several times, never caused a CEL and can see no reason for it to cause one.

[silverpodgirl]

When I took mine in for the smog test, the guy said that the CEL usually goes on when they rev up the engine (or something like that) but that it should go off very quickly and it did (about 20 mins later) Not sure if that is related to your issue. I had my air filter changed and the CEL did not go on.

[iScott]

Just to add... I never had a CEL problem when replacing my air filter.

[caglare]

IF you use open type air filter, your CEL may get out of order. VW family cars have to use box type air filter.

Like Don't use BOV on 1.8T IT may get out of order your MAF sensor.

[larryziegler]

Thank you all. I appreciate the input of past experience.