How To Clean Your Filter | Cleaning an Oiled Filter | Cleaning a Dry Filter | Filter Media Comparison Chart

How to Clean Your (Oiled or Dry) Air Filter

aFe POWER air filters are washable and reusable, ensuring long-term performance without frequent replacements. Whether you have an oiled or dry filter, proper cleaning is key to maintaining airflow and filtration efficiency.

Before starting, identify your filter type, as oiled and dry filters require different cleaning methods. Keep in mind that an oiled filter’s color may fade over time, but this does not affect its performance. Use the correct cleaning kit to ensure your filter continues to protect your engine effectively.

→ Identify your filter

How often should I clean my filter?

To maintain peak airflow and filtration efficiency, clean your aFe POWER air filter every 20,000 to 30,000 miles, or more frequently in dusty or off-road conditions. Avoid over-cleaning, as it can impact performance.

Pro Tip: Many drivers keep a spare air filter for quick swaps during cleaning. Find the right replacement air filter by searching your filter or intake part number on our website, or call 951-493-7101 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM – 4 PM PST).

Man spraying aFe filter cleaner onto a grey engine air filter

How does oil improve filter efficiency?

Oil boosts your aFe POWER air filter’s efficiency by increasing airflow while trapping fine debris, ensuring superior engine protection. Our high-grade, engine-safe oil coats the filter media, capturing contaminants without restricting performance.

Pro Tip: All oiled filters follow the same cleaning process— only the oil is different.

Man oiling AFE Filter in warehouse with blue oil

How to clean (& re-oil) an oiled filter

Pro 5R

Pro 10R

Pro-GUARD 7

Three of the four aFe POWER air filter media are oiled filters:

Pro 5R (blue) – High-flow performance
Pro 10R (blue with expanded metal) – Increased durability
Pro-GUARD 7 (gold) – Maximum protection

If you have a Pro 5R, Pro 10R, or Pro-GUARD 7 air filter, follow the steps below for proper cleaning and re-oiling.

Reminder: The color of your filter comes from the oil’s dye, and fading over time is normal—it does not mean the filter needs more oil.

Tap the Filter: Gently tap your aFe filter to remove any loose dirt. Then, apply aFe POWER Air Filter Power Cleaner. Allow it to penetrate for 10-15 minutes to break down the oil and dirt.
Rinse the Filter: Rinse with tap water or a garden hose from the inside out. Avoid using high pressure, as it can damage the filter.
Air Dry: Let the filter air dry in a cool, shaded area, away from direct sunlight. Do not apply heat. Wait until the filter is completely dry before moving to the next step. Pro Tip: Having a spare filter on hand allows you to swap it out while the cleaned filter air dries overnight, so your vehicle is ready to go when you need it. Wait until the filter is completely dry before moving to the next step.
Re-Oil the Filter: Apply aFe POWER Blue Oil or aFe Gold Oil to the top or bottom of each pleat, about 1/2″ away from the edge. Allow the oil to spread within 20 minutes. Touch up any areas that are still visibly white. aFe oil is safe for your engine and won’t drip. Alternatively, you can use aFe POWER Aerosol Gold or Aerosol Blue Oil.
Reinstall the Filter: Once properly oiled, install your aFe Air Filter into your stock or aFe housing. Do not run the filter without oil. We recommend waiting 24-48 hours before reinstalling to allow any oil to fully settle and covering any white spots that may have been missed.

Instruction diagram on how to clean blue oiled Pro 5R or Pro 10R aFe air filter

Instruction diagram on how to clean gold oiled ProGuard7 aFe air filter

How to clean a DRY filter

aFe POWER Pro DRY S air filters use a 3-layered synthetic media perfect for street and light off-road use, best for those who want easy maintenance without the extra step of oiling. If you have a Pro DRY S air filter, follow the steps below to clean your filter.

Instruction diagram on how to clean grey dry aFe air filter

Tap the Filter: Gently tap your aFe POWER air filter to remove any loose dirt. Then, apply aFe POWER Air Filter Cleaner , ensuring full coverage. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to break down dirt and debris.
Rinse the Filter: Rinse thoroughly with tap water or a garden hose from the inside out. Avoid using high pressure, as it can damage the filter media.
Air Dry: Stand the filter upright in a cool, shaded area. Do not apply heat or place it in direct sunlight. Wait until the filter is completely dry before reinstalling. Never oil a dry air filter.
Reinstall the Filter: Once fully dry, install your clean aFe POWER Pro DRY S Air Filter into your stock or aFe housing. Your filter is now ready for use!