I recently bought a 2004.5 S40 T5. Can anyone provide some instructions on how to change the OE engine air filter? I have not had a volvo before and haven't seen any previous posts on this topic. I am also thinking about replacing with a K&N air filter to replace the standard. Anyone know if this makes any noticeable improvement in fuel efficiency or power? With the help of this forum I was able to change the cabin air filter and save $100 from the dealer's outrageous quote, so I really appreciate the collective experience and insight of the members here.

 

Changing the filter is very simple. The filter is in the rectangular box at the front of the engine. You will see a air pipe coming from above the radiator into the side. There are 2 philips screws on top. Unscrew them, they are captive and don't come all the way out. Then pull the cover straight up. There you go.

I just started using a K&N panel filter in my air box. I do notice a little power gain. I am still trending my fuel economy to see if it helps.
Stan

 

i just checked my air filter, seems really dirty! i'll post pics today.
K&N provide the best air filters? if i went to a shop, what should i ask for?

usually, a new air filter should improve fuel economy?!

 

I just bought a K&N air filter since the price was so cheap. Thanks for the instructions on changing, sounds easy enough. LAOI, I went to the K&N website to find the correct filter and part number, then did a Google search with the part number and found the cheapest price at Amazon, $35.

 

this is the air filter. 1st time i lay my hands on one, and it seems dirty

where i live it's hard to get such things by mail!
so i gotta look for one in local shops next week.

also i'll be looking for CRC MAF cleaner, i read it could be helpful.

 

Something to note concerning air filters. If you are looking for the best filtering (removal of particulate), the Volvo paper filters are very good. However, they tend to me more restrictive in regards to air flow as compared to the K&N. I have seen some after market paper filters that at too restrictive. They likely block even more particles since they flow less air. K&N filters do filter adequately, however, the increased flow comes at the cost of allowing a little more particulate to pass. This is seen in oil analysis. There is no free lunch.

Concerning cleaning the MAF: You have to be very careful handling the MAF. There is a very fine wire in the air flow path that is rather fragile. If you damage the wire you will need a new MAF sensor. In some cars, the wire can get an oily residue on it and need cleaning. This can happen if you are using an air filter that requires oiling (ie K&N) and too much oil is applied to the filter medium. Many use the K&N filters with no problem. Follow the directions carefully.
Stan

 

While I've got this thread going....know how to replace the fuel filter? I am not sure where it is located in this car and what the process is to go about changing. I think with some guidance though this should also be something I can handle.

 

I took some pictures while I am changing it to K&N filter (Part Number 33-2873), for my 2008 V50 T5 (RHD).
Remove the two screw from the box on the right of the intake air duct. please note the screw is still attaching the filter box as shown.


Pull the box out, upward towords yourself at an angle.


Replace the air filter inside the pull out box.




Put the air filter box back into the car.


tighten the two screw again


Put K&N sticker on


Overall image of engine compartment after install.


That's it!

 

careful the re not Phillip screws there torq screws 6 and the kn filter help. little I've notice very little difference

 

They are not torx screws... they are Phillips.

K&N is all marketing. People "feel" a difference because they just spent so much on an air filter.