Q: Where is the air filter located and how do you remove and replace it on Mercury Mariner?
A: The air filter is located inside a housing at the left (driver's) side of the engine compartment. To remove the air filter, loosen the clamp securing the inlet tube to the air filter cover, release the clamps that secure the two halves of the air cleaner housing together, then separate the cover halves and remove the air filter element. Inspect the outer surface of the filter element. If it is dirty, replace it. If it is only moderately dusty, it can be reused by blowing it clean from the back to the front surface with compressed air. Because it is a pleated paper type filter, it cannot be washed or oiled. If it cannot be cleaned satisfactorily with compressed air, discard and replace it. While the cover is off, be careful not to drop anything down into the housing. Never drive the vehicle with the air cleaner removed. Excessive engine wear could result and backfiring could even cause a fire under the hood. Wipe out the inside of the air cleaner housing. Place the new filter into the air cleaner housing, making sure it seats properly. Installation of the housing is the reverse of removal. For 2009 and later V6 models, release the clips retaining the air filter cover, then remove the cover. Remove the filter element from the housing. Install the filter housing cover, making sure the retaining clips snap into place.