How to clean a motorcycle air filter?

August 15, 2022

How to clean a motorcycle air filter?

Oxygen is one of three elements needed in internal combustion. Your motorcycle’s intake system guides air to the engine which needs that oxygen for the combustion process. When your motorcycle’s intake system allows clean and continuous air through the engine, your bike works better. But when contaminants like dirt and debris reach your engine, they begin to wear down the parts. Air filters are usually made of either specialised pleated paper or foam and come in layers. Motorcycle air filters trap contaminants whilst allowing air to pass through the intake system. Over time, the particles build up and clog the filter. A dirty filter prevents clean air from getting to the engine. Your bike’s air filter is a very important part of your motorcycle as it is the first and last line of defense between the harsh elements and your engine’s vital components which is why regular maintenance of your air filter is absolutely necessary.

Why it’s important

Air filter maintenance may seem like a simple, mundane task, but its importance for the health and performance of your machine is significant. A dirty air filter prevents clean air from going through the intake system and can cause your motorcycle to lose engine power which means less wheelies. In more severe cases, a damaged air filter can even allow in debris and particles to your combustion chambers and result in poor engine performance and eventually engine failure - aka, your bike seizing up, on an up ramp which is not a fun time. 

What you need

If your filter is made from a reusable material, all you need to do is give it a good cleaning and it’s extremely easy as well. No need to go to your local mechanic and have them clean your filter. 

• Gloves (air filter oil is sticky and it’s tough to get off your hands) 
• Basic hand tools (T-Handle’s are usually the only tool you’ll need to access your airbox)
• Clean work surface so nothing can get on your air filter once oiled
• Air filter specialised cleaner or water  (you can also use laundry detergent/dish soap)
• Bucket of water
• Air Filter Oil 

Make sure to refer to your service manual in choosing an air filter cleaner and specialty oil.

Steps to take

Cleaning the air filter of your motorcycle is easy. You just have to locate the filter, remove it, check for a good seal, clean the area around it, and pop it back in once it’s cleaned and oiled. Depending on the type of air filter your motorcycle has, here are ways on how to clean your filter:

If you have a foam filter:

• Wear protective gloves. 
• Remove the foam from the housing. Then tap it lightly over a garbage can to remove some of the initial debris before cleaning thoroughly. 
• In a bucket of warm water, wash off the majority of the dirt gently. Use a mild cleaner to wash the foam. and give a few rounds until all the gunk and oil is gone. Do not twist or wring out the foam filter.
• Rinse the filter thoroughly Gently squeeze the foam to remove excess water, but don’t twist it.
• Set it aside to dry. 
• Clean out the airbox/filter housing whilst waiting for the air filter to dry.
• Once the air filter is dry, pour a generous amount of air filter oil over the outside.You want to make sure the whole outside is covered in Air Filter oil. 
• Squeeze out the extra oil gently, don’t twist the filter as this may cause it to rip.
• Return the filter to the airbox.

If you have a cotton motorcycle filter:

• Put on gloves before starting. Next, remove the filter from the housing.
•  Tap loose dirt off the cotton screen.
• Apply cotton filter-specified cleaning product and allow it to sit for a few minutes and allow the cleanser to break down grime.
• Gently wash off the filter in a bucket of warm soapy water. Be careful not to dent or damage the filter.
• Rinse it thoroughly until the water is clear and free of suds.
• Allow the filter to dry completely. Make sure the cotton air filter is completely dry before applying oil.
• Clean the filter housing whilst waiting for the air filter to dry. Return the cotton screen to its housing.

If you have a paper air filter:

• Pull the filter out. Tap the filter on a garbage can a couple of times to remove some dirt.
• Use a vacuum cleaner on the blower end to blow out the dirt from the air filter.
• If the filter has too much dirt, consider replacing it with a new one instead.

Keep cleaning the air filter on your motorcycle at regular intervals to ensure smooth operation and good performance. If you live or often travel in muddy or dusty areas, you may need to clean your filter more often. If you are looking for the best aftermarket Filters for your motorcycle, AMA Warehouse has the best motorcycle maintenance products for all of your needs. Browse our full range today. Need more motorcycle tips and guides? Read our Motorcycle Blogs or contact us on info@amawarehouse.com.au or 07 3386 1600 and our staff members will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have!