2016–2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris

2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris — Engine Air Filter Replacement

By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026

🔧 Easy 20-45 minutes $35 DIY

Save $75 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $110

Quick answer: Engine Air Filter Replacement on a 2016–2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris 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.

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

Total Cost

$35.00

Part Name	Part Number	Price	Buy
Engine air filter for 2016-2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris; verify engine, housing shape, and VIN fitment	6510900051	$35.00	Amazon

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

Confirm filter fitment and engine state

Park level, engine off, bay cool. The filter is a panel element, OE 6510900051 (Mann, Mahle, Hengst) — confirm your replacement matches the number and panel shape. Set the new filter by the airbox and check its gasket and dimensions against the old element.

Open the air box

Find the black airbox, intake duct running to the turbo. Check the lid fasteners — clips or Torx screws by year — and release them per the manual. Lift the lid clear without straining the duct or wiring; keep a towel over the opening.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado

Check the fastener type before you touch anything — I've watched guys attack Torx screws with a flathead on these vans and chew the heads beyond saving.

Inspect the old filter and housing

Note the dark face (airflow direction); daylight-test the filter — barely any light means overdue. Check the airbox for debris and oil film, and the duct, clamps, and sensor plug for damage. Clean the dirty side only — keep grit off the clean-air duct.

Install the new filter

Clean the housing and set the 6510900051-spec filter in the same orientation, gasket even on the sealing lip. It should drop flat without force — force means the wrong part. No pinched pleats, gasket captured; an unsealed panel feeds unfiltered air into the turbo.

Close and verify the intake

Seat the lid, refasten each clip or screw, and tug to confirm the seal. Refit the duct, snug its clamp, reconnect the sensor plug. Start up: listen at idle for whistling or rattling — sealed means smooth idle, no warnings. Then a short drive.

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 reconnect the intake duct or sensor connector

Tools You'll Need

Flat screwdriver or trim tool as fitted Metric/SAE socket set and ratchet Clean shop towels and a flashlight Gloves and safety glasses

Related Trouble Codes

P0171 System Too Lean (Bank 1) P0101 Mass Airflow Sensor Range/Performance P0174 System Too Lean (Bank 2)

⚠️ Safety First!

• Informational DIY. EZ Car Fix is not a shop.
• Work with the engine off and cool enough to touch; keep loose hardware out of the intake.
• Use the exact filter orientation and seal; do not run the engine with the air box open.
• Confirm the guide applies to the gasoline/ICE configuration and check the service interval in the owner manual.