Quick answer: Engine Air Filter Replacement on a 2019–2023 Hyundai Santa Fe is rated Easy and takes about 20-45 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 2019-2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid; verify engine, housing shape, and VIN fitment |
28113-L5100 |
$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
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Confirm filter fitment and engine state
The 2021–2023 Santa Fe Hybrid runs the 1.6L turbo Smartstream hybrid powertrain, and its engine air filter is a hybrid-specific panel element: Hyundai part 28113-L5100, with Fram CA12817 as a common aftermarket equivalent. Do not use the non-hybrid 2.5L filter — the hybrid housing takes a different element. Park on level ground, switch the vehicle fully off (not just in EV-ready mode), and let the bay cool. Compare the new filter's footprint, seal, and airflow arrow against the housing before opening anything.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Tom Becker
I buy the hybrid filter, not the 2.5L one — the housing takes a different element and the wrong filter stands proud and won't seal. The part number is 28113-L5100; double-check the box before you leave the store.
2
Open the air box
This is a no-tools job when the clips cooperate, but do not force a corroded clip. A broken clip means the lid will never seal again.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
I never force a corroded clip — a broken one means the lid never seals again, and on the turbo hybrid that leak feeds unfiltered air straight into the compressor wheel. Work it gently or replace it.
3
Inspect the old filter and housing
Lift the old panel filter out and note which face is dirty to establish the airflow direction. Vacuum the lower housing for leaves and grit, and inspect the lid seal for hardening or tears — a leaking seal on the turbo hybrid lets unfiltered air straight into the compressor wheel. Check the intake duct and its clamps for cracks, and leave the MAF sensor element in the tube untouched. Hyundai recommends inspecting this filter every 12,000–15,000 miles, so note your mileage while the box is open.
4
Install the new filter
Set the new 28113-L5100 filter into the lower half with its gasket fully captured in the channel and the airflow arrow matching the old element's dirty side. The panel must sit flat with no rocking.
5
Close and verify the intake
Snap every metal clip closed with even tension so the seal compresses uniformly around the element — each clip should click shut without a fight. Remove the towel, confirm the MAF connector is seated, then start the vehicle and listen at the airbox for a hiss or whistle indicating an intake leak. Verify there is no check-engine light, no rough running when the engine fires up, and no rattle from a loose lid before you close the hood.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Confusing the engine filter with the cabin filter
- • Installing the filter upside down or leaving a corner unseated
- • Dropping clips, dirt, or shop towels into the intake tract
- • Over-tightening plastic air-box fasteners
- • Failing to confirm the MAF connector is seated.
