When it comes to servicing one’s own car, the air filter is normally just about the easiest thing to change. Despite this, it’s often overlooked by lazy owners. Having a clogged air filter can increase fuel consumption and reduce power: it really makes sense to change it regularly. Fortunately, changing my Mazda MX-5 1.8i Merlot’s (also known as Mazda Miata in the U.S.A., and the Eunos Roadster in Japan) air filter was extremely straightforward.

My Veloce Mazda MX-5 1.8 enthusiast’s manual (you may want the 1.6i enthusiast’s manual instead) recommends inspection of the air filter every 6,000 miles. It should apparently be changed every 27,000 miles or 3 years. Armed with the workshop manual and a £12.77 brand new genuine Mazda air filter from MX5parts, I set to work.

Chances are that you could figure it out yourself, but on the off-chance that you’re somewhat timid or cagey about fiddling with your own car, here’s a step-by-step guide. (Usual disclaimers apply.) Apologies for the poor-quality camera-phone pictures.

1. Unplug the electrical connector
1. Unplug the electrical connector
2. Release the clamp
2. Release the clamp
3. Detach the trunking
3. Detach the trunking
4. Undo the four screws of the air filter casing
4. Undo the four screws of the air filter casing
5. Lift the casing up
5. Lift the casing up
6. Remove the air filter and any debris
6. Remove the air filter and any debris
7. Insert the new air filter
7. Insert the new air filter
8. Put screws, trunking, trunking clamp, electrical connector back
8. Put screws, trunking, trunking clamp, electrical connector back

That’s it! Drive off laughing like an idiot, enjoying the happier engine—and the consequently restored power.