Keeping your K&N High-Flow Performance Air Filter clean isn’t complicated, but doing it right makes a big difference in performance and longevity. These filters are built to be reusable, and with the proper care, they’ll deliver consistent airflow and protection for years to come.

To do this, start by removing the filter from your vehicle and gently tapping it to knock loose dirt and debris. Once it’s out, coat both sides of the filter with K&N’s Power Kleen or cotton filter cleaner. Be generous with the application, especially on the dirty side, where buildup is heavier. Let the cleaner sit for about 10 minutes so it can break down grime and contaminants, but avoid letting it dry on the filter.

After soaking, rinse the filter using low-pressure water. Always run water from the clean side toward the dirty side to flush debris out instead of forcing it deeper into the cotton media. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear and no dirt remains. If the filter is heavily contaminated, repeat the cleaning and rinsing process to ensure it’s fully restored.

Once clean, shake off excess water and allow the filter to dry naturally. Resist the urge to speed up the process with compressed air, heaters, or hair dryers. High heat can damage the cotton material and reduce filtration effectiveness. Give the filter enough time to dry completely before moving on.

When dry, reapply the K&N filter oil. Using the squeeze bottle, run a small, consistent bead along the crown of each pleat, letting the oil soak in evenly. If you prefer the aerosol can, hold the nozzle about three inches away and spray a smooth, even coat across each pleat. Allow the oil to wick for about twenty minutes, then inspect for any light spots and touch them up until the filter has a uniform red color. Wipe away any excess oil to prevent drips.

Reinstall the filter, secure it properly, and you’re ready to go. With proper cleaning and oiling, K&N’s High-Flow Performance Air Filters continue delivering optimal airflow and protection, helping your engine breathe better and perform at its best.

Cleaning Steps

STEP 1 – REMOVE FILTER

Remove your filter from its housing. Handling carefully, lightly tap off all loose dirt and debris.

STEP 2 – APPLY K&N POWER KLEEN

Liberally spray Power Kleen® filter cleaner onto both sides of the filter and allow to sit for 10 minutes. Do not allow the cleaner to dry on.

STEP 3 – RINSE YOUR FILTER WITH LOW PRESSURE WATER

Rinse your air filter with cool low-pressure water from the clean side out in order to flush the dirt out of the filter. Continue to rinse the…

STEP 4 – ALLOW YOUR FILTER TO DRY NATURALLY

After rinsing your filter, gently shake off excess water and allow the filter to dry naturally. Do not apply oil until the air filter is completely dry.

STEP 5 – APPLY K&N FILTER OIL

When using the air filter oil squeeze bottle found in K&N® filter cleaning kit 99-5050, apply K&N air filter oil evenly along the crown of each pleat. Allow the oil to wick for approximately 20 minutes, and then touch up any light areas on either side of filter until there is a uniform red color on all areas. When using the K&N air filter oil aerosol spray found in K&N filter cleaning kit 99-5000 or K&N’s 12.25 oz aerosol air filter oil, spray the oil evenly along the crown of each pleat while holding the nozzle about 3 inches away. Allow the oil to wick for approximately 20 minutes. Touch up any light areas on either side of the filter until there is a uniform red color on all areas. Please note that the above process is the only approved procedure for maintaining your K&N High-Flow Air Filter™