how to clean k&n filter
Sarah Martinez
Updated on June 07, 2026
Warm soap water is a good way to use it. It’s okay to scrub it with your hand or a plastic bristle brush. 3 minutes of free flowing water under the tap in the opposite direction of the functional air flow is enough to wash it.
How often does a K&N filter need to be cleaned?
The general rule of thumb is that the filter needs to be cleaned when the dirt build up gets as thick as the wire mesh. The usual interval is 30,000 – 50,000 miles depending on driving conditions. We recommend that you check your filter about once a year in normal usage.
Do you oil both sides of a K&N air filter?
After you have cleaned BOTH sides with the cleaner and then rinsed it off, let it air dry and then spray the oil on BOTH sides. Let it air dry for 20 minutes and then recheck it for spots that may need more oil. It should be an even red on both sides. 3 of 17 found this helpful.
Is the K&N filter worth it?
Fitting a K&N high flow air filter is the easiest, most cost-effective, and least technical way of increasing engine performance. K&N filters are worth it, they’re reusable and come with a 10 year or one million-mile warranty.
Do you oil K&N filters?
K&N automotive replacement air filters can go up to 50,000 miles (under normal highway driving conditions) before air filter cleaning and re-oiling is necessary.
Can I use WD40 on my K&N air filter?
The question this article wants to answer is, could you use WD40 to re-oil your K&N air filter? (or any other oil-based performance filters). Quick answer – no, you should not use WD-40 to oil your air filter because they dry up too quickly and leave behind residue that could even block airflow.
Can you use dish soap to clean air filter?
Yes you can clean a dirt bike air filter with dish soap or washing up liquid so long as it’s a foam or cotton air filter. However, for best results to maintain a properly cleaned air filter you should use air filter cleaner first to help remove the dirt and then rinse it in soapy water afterwards.
Can you use brake cleaner to clean air filter?
Brake cleaner will eat through the fine material in an air filter and render it useless. Mild soap and warm water is the best best, which is exactly what comes in the K&N kit. Don’t use compressed air to dry because it can blow tiny holes into the filter that also renders is useless.
How can you tell if a K&N filter is dirty?
8 Dirty Air Filter Symptoms: How to Know When to Clean Your Air
Air Filter Appears Dirty. Decreasing Gas Mileage. Your Engine Misses or Misfires. Strange Engine Noises. Check Engine Light Comes On. Reduction in Horsepower. Flames or Black Smoke from Exhaust Pipe. Strong Fuel Smell.
How long do K&N oil filters last?
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO CHANGE YOUR OIL FILTER? K&N premium oil filters are built to withstand the long intervals between service changes, which are often around 10,000 miles for newer vehicles.
Can you use dish soap to clean a K&N filter?
Anything mild that cuts grease, like dishwashing liquid or Simple Green degreaser will loosen old oil and dirt. It air dries after a shake and a light spray with water to rinse. The K&N people used the right oil for the filter.
What oil can I use for air filter?
If you are in a real pinch, you could use regular motor oil on your air filter. It is better than nothing. If you are old-school, you have probably done so on many occasions. The problem is that motor oil pools in the airbox, distributes itself unevenly and can be sucked through the intake tract.