2008–2013 Cadillac CTS
By Ray Delgado ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026
Save $75 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $110
Quick answer: Engine Air Filter Replacement on a 2008–2013 Cadillac CTS is rated Easy and takes about 10–15 minutes. You'll need 2 tools for this job, and parts cost about $35. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine air filter for 2008-2013 Cadillac CTS; verify engine, housing shape, and VIN fitment | — | $35.00 |
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
Engine off, parking brake on. The airbox is the black box ahead of the V6 near a front corner. Same layout on 3.6L, 3.0L V6 (2010–2013), and the 6.2L CTS-V — its airbox sits front-right.
T25 Torx screws hold the lid — no spring clips, so grab a T25 bit first. Back each screw out into a magnetic tray; they tumble into the bay easily. Count them so every one goes back in.
Lift the lid. The MAF sensor and its wiring are next to the box — never touch, wipe, or spray the element. If the lid resists, check for a missed screw; forcing it cracks the plastic tabs.
Lift the old filter out, noting which face pointed up and how the rubber frame nested into the channel. Hold it to daylight: a clogged filter shows as sluggish throttle and a fuel-economy drop before any warning light.
Vacuum or wipe the lower half clear of leaves, sand, and grit — without pushing debris toward the clean-side outlet. Check the lid's sealing lip and seal channel for grit; an even seal keeps unmetered air from the MAF.
Drop the new filter into the lower box, rubber frame flat in its channel. Set the lid on squarely — if it rocks, the filter is cocked. Reseat the filter; don't force the lid down with the screws.
If the lid rocks when you set it down, don't pull it down with the screws — I lift it back off and reseat the filter every time. Fighting a cocked filter with T25s is how those plastic bosses strip.
Reinstall every T25 screw — thread each by hand first, then snug in a crisscross pattern (not gorilla-tight; the bosses are plastic). Start the engine and listen for hissing or whistling; take a short drive to confirm no check-engine light.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
2008–2013
2008–2013
2008–2013
2008–2013
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