2020 Nissan Altima Air Filter Guide: Replacement, Location, Cost & Importance for Your Sedan

Regularly replacing your 2020 Nissan Altima's engine air filter and cabin air filter is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance, fuel efficiency, interior air quality, and overall vehicle health. Neglecting these simple, affordable components can lead to reduced power, higher fuel costs, poor AC performance, and potential long-term engine damage. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about location, replacement intervals, DIY steps, cost comparisons, and why it matters.

Your Nissan Altima breathes just like you do. For peak operation and longevity, it needs a constant supply of clean air. This crucial task falls primarily to two filters: the engine air filter and the cabin air filter. Understanding their role, location, and maintenance schedule for your 2020 model year Altima is fundamental to responsible car ownership. These are among the simplest yet most impactful preventative maintenance tasks you can perform.

Why Your 2020 Altima's Air Filters Matter: Performance, Health, and Savings

The two air filters serve distinct but equally vital purposes:

1. Engine Air Filter: This filter is the first line of defense for your Altima's engine. It traps dirt, dust, pollen, road debris, insects, and other contaminants before they enter the engine's combustion chambers. Clean air is critical for the precise air-fuel mixture required for efficient combustion. A clogged engine air filter:

   • Reduces Engine Performance & Power: Restricted airflow means less oxygen for combustion, leading to a noticeable lack of acceleration and sluggishness.
   • Decreases Fuel Efficiency: The engine control unit (ECU) tries to compensate for the lack of oxygen, often resulting in a richer fuel mixture (more fuel), directly lowering your miles per gallon (MPG).
   • Increases Emissions: Incomplete combustion due to poor airflow can lead to higher levels of harmful pollutants exiting the tailpipe.
   • Potentially Causes Engine Damage: In severe cases, large particles bypassing a damaged or extremely clogged filter can scratch cylinder walls or damage valves.
   • Leads to Rough Idling: The engine may struggle to maintain a smooth idle due to inconsistent airflow.

2. Cabin Air Filter (Pollen Filter): This filter cleans the air entering your Altima's interior through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. It captures dust, pollen, mold spores, exhaust soot, allergens, and other airborne pollutants. A dirty or clogged cabin air filter:

   • Reduces HVAC System Efficiency: Restricted airflow forces the blower motor to work harder, reducing airflow from the vents, making it harder to heat or cool the cabin effectively, especially on higher fan speeds.
   • Causes Unpleasant Odors: Trapped moisture, dust, pollen, and mold can create musty or sour smells emanating from the vents, particularly when the AC or heat is first turned on.
   • Worsens Air Quality for Occupants: A saturated filter loses its ability to trap allergens and pollutants, potentially exacerbating allergies or respiratory issues for drivers and passengers.
   • Leads to Foggy Windows: Reduced airflow can hinder the defrost system's ability to clear condensation effectively.

Finding the Filters: Engine Air Filter and Cabin Air Filter Locations on a 2020 Altima

Locating these filters is straightforward:

1. Engine Air Filter Location:

   • Open the hood of your Altima.
   • Look towards the driver's side of the engine bay, near the front corner.
   • You'll see a large, usually rectangular or slightly trapezoidal, black plastic air filter housing. It's connected to the intake tube that leads towards the engine's throttle body. The top cover is typically secured by metal clips, plastic clamps, or sometimes wingnuts/screws (less common on 2020).

2. Cabin Air Filter Location:

   • Sit in the front passenger seat of your Altima.
   • Open the glove compartment door.
   • Push the glove compartment sides inward to clear the stops and let it drop down fully towards the floor. You may need to gently support its weight.
   • Look towards the back of the glove box opening. You should see a long, narrow rectangular plastic cover spanning most of the width. This cover is usually held in place by small plastic clips or tabs on each end.
   • The cabin air filter slides in and out horizontally behind this cover within the HVAC housing.

How Often Should You Replace 2020 Nissan Altima Air Filters? Nissan Recommendations and Real-World Factors

Nissan provides service intervals in the official owner's manual. However, actual replacement frequency depends heavily on your driving environment:

• Nissan's Recommended Interval:

  • Engine Air Filter: Nissan typically recommends inspecting the engine air filter every 15,000 miles and replacing it as necessary. Replacement often occurs between 30,000 and 45,000 miles in average conditions, but always consult your specific Altima's maintenance schedule in the owner's manual. Some sources suggest replacement every 15,000-30,000 miles is more common practice.
  • Cabin Air Filter: Nissan usually advises replacing the cabin air filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles. Again, check your owner's manual for the precise recommendation applicable to your Altima's model and trim level.

• Factors Requiring More Frequent Replacement:

  • Driving in Dusty or Sandy Conditions: Frequent driving on dirt roads, gravel, or in arid climates fills filters much faster.
  • Heavy Traffic / Stop-and-Go Driving: This often puts more load on the engine and pulls in more exhaust fumes (filtered by the cabin filter).
  • High Pollen Count Areas: Spring and fall seasons can rapidly clog cabin filters.
  • High Pollution or Industrial Areas: Increased particulate matter in the air accelerates filter clogging for both engine and cabin.
  • Operating Near Construction Zones: Constant dust exposure significantly shortens filter life.

Visual Inspection is Key: Don't solely rely on mileage. Periodically remove and inspect both filters.

• Engine Air Filter: Hold it up to a bright light source. If more than half the surface area appears blocked with dirt and debris, and light barely passes through, it needs replacement.
• Cabin Air Filter: If it's visibly darkened, packed with leaves, twigs, dust, or especially if moldy or smelly, replace it immediately.

DIY Replacement Guide: Changing Your 2020 Altima's Air Filters (Step-by-Step)

Replacing both filters is generally considered a very manageable DIY task. Here's a simplified guide:

Tools/Materials Needed:

• New Engine Air Filter (confirm correct part for 2020 Altima 2.5L engine - see section below)
• New Cabin Air Filter (confirm correct part - see section below)
• Phillips screwdriver (might not be needed, but good to have)
• Flashlight (helpful for cabin filter location)
• Gloves (optional, for cleanliness)

Procedure A: Replacing the Engine Air Filter

1. Safety First: Ensure the vehicle is parked on level ground, in park (P), with the parking brake engaged. Allow the engine to cool if recently driven.
2. Locate Housing: Open the hood and identify the engine air filter housing on the driver's side front.
3. Open Housing: Release the securing clips or clamps on the top cover. They typically flip open sideways or upwards. If screws or wingnuts are present, carefully remove them, keeping track of each part.
4. Remove Old Filter: Lift the housing cover. Carefully lift out the old engine air filter. Note its orientation. Tip: Take a quick photo with your phone before removing the old filter for reference.
5. Clean Housing: Briefly inspect the inside of the housing and the air intake tube leading towards the engine for any large debris or dirt clumps. Use a damp cloth or a vacuum cleaner hose attachment very carefully if needed. Crucial: Prevent any debris from falling into the intake tube.
6. Insert New Filter: Place the brand new engine air filter into the housing in the exact same orientation as the old one. The rubber sealing edge must sit correctly in the housing groove.
7. Reassemble: Carefully place the top cover back onto the housing. Re-secure all clips, clamps, screws, or wingnuts firmly and evenly to ensure a complete seal. A loose seal allows unfiltered air into the engine.
8. Check: Visually double-check that the cover is fully seated and latched securely.

Procedure B: Replacing the Cabin Air Filter

1. Access Glove Box: Sit in the passenger seat. Open the glove box door.
2. Empty and Lower Glove Box: Remove all contents from the glove box. Depress the sides of the glove box liner at the front (near where it hinges) to clear the retaining stops, allowing the glove box to swing down fully towards the floor. Support it gently.
3. Locate Filter Cover: Look towards the back wall of the glove box opening. Identify the long, narrow cabin air filter access cover.
4. Remove Cover: Release the retaining clips or tabs (usually one on each end). Slide the cover sideways or carefully pull it off towards you.
5. Remove Old Filter: Slide out the old cabin air filter. Note its orientation and airflow direction arrows. Tip: Take a photo before removal.
6. Insert New Filter: Slide the new cabin air filter into the slot, ensuring the airflow direction arrows printed on the filter frame point the correct way. On the 2020 Altima, the arrows generally point DOWNWARDS or sometimes towards the FLOOR. Verify with the photo you took or markings on the filter housing. Installing it backwards significantly reduces effectiveness. The filter should slide in with minimal resistance.
7. Reinstall Cover: Slide or snap the cover back into place securely over the filter slot.
8. Reassemble Glove Box: Lift the glove box straight back up into position, ensuring the sides clear the stops correctly. Listen for clicks indicating it's fully secured. Replace glove box contents.
9. Test HVAC: Turn on the ignition (no need to start the engine) and run the HVAC fan at various speeds to confirm airflow feels normal and no unusual noises occur.

Choosing the Right Replacement Filters for Your 2020 Altima

Using the correct filter ensures proper fitment, efficiency, and protects your warranty. The 2020 Nissan Altima, regardless of trim (S, SR, SV, SL, Platinum), is equipped with the same 2.5L 4-cylinder engine. Therefore, the engine air filter part is the same for all 2020 Altimas equipped with the 2.5L engine.

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Filters: Nissan Genuine Parts filters (e.g., Nissan Part # 16546-4GA0A or 16546-4GA0B) are designed specifically for your vehicle. They often offer reliable performance and fit perfectly. You can purchase these at a Nissan dealership parts counter or online retailers specializing in OEM parts.
• High-Quality Aftermarket Filters: Reputable brands like Wix (WA10847), Purolator (A36954), Fram (CA10782 for Cabin, CAF11097P for Engine), ACDelco (A3145C), Mann Filter (CU31020), K&N (33-2300 for Engine, VF2050 Washable Cabin), and Bosch (C4512) offer excellent filters for the 2020 Altima. Many meet or exceed OEM specifications and offer various features. Stick to known, reputable brands.
• What to Look For:
  • Confirm Compatibility: Double-check the application chart on the filter box or product listing explicitly states compatibility with the "2020 Nissan Altima 2.5L".
  • Filter Media Type: Pleated paper is standard and effective. Some engine filters offer cotton gauze media (like K&N) designed to be cleaned and re-oiled. Cabin filters come in standard particle filtration, activated carbon (for odor reduction), or combination types. Activated carbon is highly recommended for better cabin air quality.
  • Price Point: Filters vary in price. Consider value (features, filtration efficiency, longevity) over just the lowest price.

2020 Nissan Altima Air Filter Replacement Cost Breakdown

The cost varies based on filter choice and where you have the work done:

• DIY Cost: This is just the price of the filters:

  • Engine Air Filter: $10-$25 for standard quality paper filters. Washable cotton filters (K&N) cost $50-$70 initially but last longer. Activated carbon cabin filters cost slightly more.
  • Cabin Air Filter: $10-$30 for standard particle or activated carbon filters. Premium activated carbon or HEPA-type may be $20-$40.
  • Total DIY Cost: Typically $20-$55 for both filters using standard quality parts.

• Dealership/Shop Cost: This includes parts, labor, and markup:

  • Engine Air Filter Replacement: $40-$80+
  • Cabin Air Filter Replacement: $50-$100+
  • Total Shop Cost: Easily $90-$180+ for replacing both filters.
  • Conclusion: Significant savings are realized by performing this simple task yourself.

Symptoms of a Dirty or Clogged Air Filter in Your Altima

Be alert to these warning signs indicating a filter likely needs replacement:

• Engine Air Filter Symptoms:

  • Noticeable reduction in acceleration (feels sluggish, "down on power")
  • Decreased fuel economy (checking MPG at fill-ups shows a consistent decline)
  • Unusual engine sounds, like coughing or spluttering during acceleration
  • Engine check light may (rarely) illuminate if restriction is severe enough to set an airflow-related code
  • Visible dirt on the filter during inspection
  • Rough or erratic idling

• Cabin Air Filter Symptoms:

  • Significantly reduced airflow from the vents, especially on high fan settings
  • Musty, moldy, or sour odors coming from the HVAC vents
  • Increased window fogging that's harder to clear
  • Excessive dust accumulating on the dashboard or vents inside the car
  • Sneezing or allergy symptoms seeming worse while driving
  • Wheezing or whistling noises from the HVAC system

Myths and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Altima Air Filters

• Myth: I can just clean my engine air filter with compressed air or by tapping it, I don't need to replace it.

  • Fact: Blowing out or tapping a pleated paper air filter can damage the delicate media, creating holes where dirt can pass through. It also doesn't fully restore airflow capacity. Paper engine air filters are designed to be replaced, not cleaned (exceptions are specific washable cotton filters like K&N). Cabin air filters are disposable.

• Myth: Using an oiled performance filter (like K&N) will give my Altima a huge horsepower boost.

  • Fact: While high-flow filters can offer marginal gains in airflow compared to a very dirty stock filter, the actual horsepower increase on a stock 2020 Altima 2.5L engine under normal driving conditions is usually negligible, often just 1-3 HP at best. The primary benefits are the ability to clean and reuse it (long-term cost savings) and maintaining optimal airflow longer between cleanings. Improper over-oiling can damage the Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor.

• FAQ: Can a dirty air filter drain my car battery?

  • Answer: No, a dirty air filter does not directly drain the battery. It affects engine performance and fuel efficiency. Battery drain stems from electrical system issues (parasitic drain, faulty alternator, old battery).

• FAQ: Are expensive air filters worth it?

  • Answer: For standard driving, a reputable mid-priced filter (OEM or quality aftermarket like Wix, Purolator, Fram) offers excellent performance and value. Premium engine filters (like K&N washable) offer long-term savings through reusability but require careful maintenance. Premium cabin filters with activated carbon provide tangible benefits like superior odor reduction and allergen trapping, making them worth the extra few dollars for many drivers concerned about cabin air quality.

• FAQ: What happens if I drive without an air filter?

  • Answer: NEVER drive your Altima without an air filter installed, even temporarily. This allows unfiltered air filled with abrasive particles directly into your engine's cylinders, causing rapid and severe wear to piston rings, cylinder walls, and valves. This leads to significant internal damage requiring very expensive repairs or engine replacement.

• FAQ: Should I use an OEM air filter?

  • Answer: OEM filters are excellent and guarantee exact fit and specification. However, high-quality aftermarket filters from brands like those mentioned earlier are also perfectly suitable, often at a lower price, providing they are explicitly listed for the 2020 Altima 2.5L. Both are valid choices.

Long-Term Value: How Proper Air Filter Maintenance Protects Your Investment

Consistently replacing your 2020 Nissan Altima's air filters as needed is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your vehicle investment:

• Optimizes Performance: Ensures your engine delivers its intended power and responsiveness.
• Maximizes Fuel Economy: Helps you get the best possible MPG, saving you money at the pump trip after trip.
• Protects Engine Internals: Prevents abrasive contaminants from causing premature wear and expensive damage.
• Ensures Comfort & Health: Maintains strong HVAC airflow and reduces dust and allergens inside the cabin.
• Extends Component Life: A clean engine air filter helps prevent throttle body and MAF sensor fouling; a clean cabin filter reduces strain on the blower motor.
• Supports Warranty Compliance: Following the recommended maintenance schedule, including filter replacements, is crucial for keeping your factory warranty valid.
• Maintains Resale Value: A documented service history showing regular preventative maintenance like air filter changes makes your Altima more attractive to future buyers.

Conclusion: A Simple Step for Big Benefits

Replacing the engine air filter and cabin air filter in your 2020 Nissan Altima is a straightforward, inexpensive, and impactful maintenance task. Understanding the critical roles these filters play in engine health, fuel efficiency, and cabin comfort highlights why they shouldn't be neglected. By knowing the locations (engine bay housing, behind the glove box), following the recommended inspection/replacement intervals (consult your manual, consider your environment), choosing quality replacements (OEM or reputable aftermarket), and confidently performing the DIY replacement steps outlined, you actively contribute to the longevity, performance, and overall well-being of your sedan. Prioritize clean air for your Altima; the rewards in smoother operation, savings on fuel, and a healthier cabin environment are immediate and long-lasting. Add this essential task to your regular maintenance routine today.