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If you own a 2017-2022 Ford F-350, selecting the right air filter matters for reliability, towing performance, and fuel efficiency. A proper engine air filter keeps abrasive particles out of the intake, supports consistent airflow under load, and helps preserve long-term engine parts. This guide collects the top shortlisted air filters suitable for the 2017-2022 F-350 and explains the decision factors that shape our picks. We focus on filtration efficiency, airflow characteristics, and correct fitment to this truck series.Below you will find the vetted options and concise evaluation criteria to help you decide which filter type matches your driving, environmental, and maintenance preferences.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Motorcraft FA-2031 Engine Air Filter (3-Pack) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | K&N Performance High-Flow Lifetime Engine Air Filter (33-5100) |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Forccord Cabin and Engine Air Filter Kit for Ford F-250/F-350/F-450/F-550 6.7L (2020–2023) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Carory CF150 Cabin Air Filter with Activated Carbon |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Motorcraft FA2031 Engine Air Filter | |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Doc's Diesel D3806 Cabin Air Filter |  |
1. Motorcraft FA-2031 Engine Air Filter (3-Pack)
| Brand | Motorcraft |
|---|---|
| Model Number | LC3Z9601E |
| Unit Count | 3.0 Count |
| Product Grade | OEM Replacement Part |
The Motorcraft FA-2031 is a factory-quality replacement air filter meant to keep diesel Super Duty engines free of dust and contaminants while preserving airflow. Sold as a 3-pack, each filter uses multi-fiber high-density pleated media plus a surfactant coating to improve initial capture and sustained filtering capacity. The polyurethane sealing flange and phenolic-resin construction resist heat, moisture, and deformation so the filter retains shape and sealing performance under heavy use. Installation is straightforward thanks to the vehicle-specific direct-fit design, and the design aims to limit airflow restriction so combustion efficiency and power are maintained. Because this is a genuine Motorcraft part engineered to Ford specifications, it is a reliable choice for routine maintenance intervals, especially for buyers who want factory-equivalent performance and longevity. It is not a high-performance aftermarket intake designed to increase airflow beyond stock levels, so buyers seeking performance gains should look elsewhere.
Best for: A practical owner who wants a reliable, factory-equivalent replacement for routine maintenance on a Super Duty diesel and values longevity and proper fit without chasing performance upgrades.
Less Ideal for: Drivers focused on maximizing intake airflow or extracting performance gains should consider performance-oriented aftermarket filters instead.
- Genuine factory-quality construction matched to Ford specifications for dependable fit and function
- High-density pleated media with surfactant coating for effective contaminant capture
- Durable polyurethane seal and phenolic-resin reinforcement resist heat and moisture
- Sold as a three-pack so you get multiple replacement intervals in one purchase
- Not designed to increase airflow or provide performance gains over stock intake filters
Verdict: Choose this Motorcraft three-pack when you want simple, factory-quality air filtration and reliable direct-fit replacements for Super Duty diesel maintenance.
2. K&N Performance High-Flow Lifetime Engine Air Filter (33-5100)
| Manufacturer Part Number | 33-5100 |
|---|---|
| OEM Equivalent Part Number | Ford FA1950, Ford FA1951 |
| Included Components | Air Filter |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1,000,000 Miles/10 Year |
This K&N high-flow engine air filter replaces the factory disposable element with a multilayer cotton gauze filter that is washable and reusable. It is installed directly into the factory air box and is intended to increase airflow and improve acceleration and horsepower compared with paper filters. Typical use is direct replacement during routine maintenance; K&N recommends cleaning the element only every 75,000 miles under normal highway driving and the unit is pre-oiled for drop-in installation. Notable features include four layers of treated filter media for particle trapping, rugged construction meant for long life, and a limited long-term warranty. Practical benefits are improved engine breathing for drivers seeking better throttle response and the reduced recurring cost and waste compared with disposable filters. Important limitations are that actual gains depend on the engine and tuning and that washable filters require periodic cleaning and re-oiling to maintain performance and filtration effectiveness.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize measurable airflow and throttle response improvements and want a long-term, lower-maintenance replacement over disposable filters for regular driving and light towing.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who never perform periodic maintenance or prefer a completely maintenance-free disposable filter should consider alternatives.
- Washable, reusable design reduces recurring replacement and landfill waste
- Multilayer cotton gauze media engineered to increase airflow and improve throttle response
- Pre-oiled, vehicle-specific fit for straightforward drop-in installation
- Performance gains vary by vehicle and are not guaranteed for all engines
Verdict: Choose this K&N if you want a washable, high-flow factory-replacement air filter to boost airflow and long-term value on your F-350.
3. Forccord Cabin and Engine Air Filter Kit for Ford F-250/F-350/F-450/F-550 6.7L (2020–2023)
| Compatible vehicles | Ford F-250/F-350/F-450/F-550 2020–2023 6.7L |
|---|---|
| Included components | Cabin air filter and engine air filter |
| OEM equivalent | FA2031 (engine) |
| Unit count | 2 Count |
This Forccord combo supplies both the engine air filter and cabin air filter sized to fit 2020–2023 Ford F-250/F-350/F-450/F-550 6.7L trucks and is aimed at routine maintenance. The engine filter uses high-precision HV filter paper for strong dust holding with low intake resistance, which helps preserve airflow and maintain engine performance and fuel efficiency. The cabin filter uses multi-layer filaments and meltblown fabric to capture fine dust, pollen, and exhaust particles and is claimed to remove 99.9% of pollutants for cleaner in-cab air and improved HVAC cooling. Installation is straightforward because the parts follow factory replacement fitment and swap in like original parts, so you can replace both filters in minutes during a service interval. The kit is practical for owners who want a direct-fit replacement and better particulate control without upgrading to specialty performance filters. Keep in mind the filtration claims are vendor-stated and real-world longevity will depend on driving conditions, so plan regular replacement intervals as recommended.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize straightforward, cost-effective maintenance and want a direct-fit replacement set that refreshes both engine intake and cabin air on 2020–2023 6.7L Ford trucks.
Less Ideal for: Owners looking for performance-focused filters with documented independent test data or specialized media for extreme dust or off-road use should consider performance aftermarket options instead.
- Includes both engine and cabin filters for one coordinated service
- Vehicle-specific fit for 2020–2023 6.7L Ford trucks simplifies installation
- Engine filter design emphasizes high dust-holding capacity with low intake resistance
- Cabin filter uses multi-layer and meltblown media to reduce fine particulates and odors
- Manufacturer filtration efficiency claims are not independently verified in the listing
Verdict: A practical, vehicle-specific filter kit that replaces both engine and cabin filters in one quick service to restore airflow and in-cab air quality on 2020–2023 6.7L Ford trucks.
4. Carory CF150 Cabin Air Filter with Activated Carbon
| MERV Rating | 13 |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Multi-layer |
| Air Filter Construction | Pleated |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
This Carory CF150 cabin air filter replaces the factory cabin filter in compatible Ford F-350 (2017–2022) models and similar vehicles to help clean incoming air to the passenger compartment. It uses a pleated, multi-layer media with activated carbon and carries a MERV 13 rating, meaning it captures fine dust, pollen, and many airborne particulates while also reducing common odors. Installation is straightforward and matches the OEM reference numbers listed for Ford filters, so swapping it into the glovebox/under-dash filter housing is a simple maintenance job for a DIYer. The activated carbon layer is useful if you want reduced smells from exhaust or road traffic, and the pleated construction gives more filter area for longer service life between changes. One limitation is that enhanced filtration can restrict airflow slightly compared with basic paper filters, so follow the vehicle manufacturer replacement interval rather than extending it too long. Overall it is a practical, no-frills replacement aimed at improving cabin air quality on F-350s without extra complexity.
Best for: F-350 owners focused on affordable, effective cabin air quality improvements who prefer a direct-fit, do-it-yourself replacement that reduces dust and odors.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking performance upgrades to HVAC airflow or those needing specialized allergy-grade medical filtration should consider alternate or dedicated solutions.
- MERV 13 rated media captures fine dust, pollen, and many micro-particles
- Activated carbon layer helps reduce odors and cabin smells
- Pleated multi-layer construction increases effective filter area for longer life
- Compatible with Ford reference numbers for direct replacement fitment
- Higher-efficiency media may slightly reduce HVAC airflow compared with the simplest paper filters
Verdict: Choose this filter to get a budget-friendly, direct-fit cabin replacement that noticeably improves cabin air cleanliness and odor control on 2017–2022 F-350 trucks.
5. Motorcraft FA2031 Engine Air Filter
| Manufacturer | Motorcraft |
|---|---|
| Model | FA2031 |
| Compatible Engine | 6.7L Powerstroke Diesel |
| Item model number | FA2031 |
The Motorcraft FA2031 is a direct-fit replacement air filter intended for 6.7L Powerstroke diesel Ford trucks from 2020 through 2022. It installs into the factory intake housing and performs the basic job of trapping dust and contaminants before they reach the turbo and engine. Because it is a Motorcraft part manufactured to factory specifications, you can expect consistent fitment, reliable filtration efficiency, and no need for modifications during swap-in. Typical use is straightforward scheduled maintenance during service intervals or when servicing the intake system. The key benefits are OEM-level compatibility and predictable performance that helps preserve engine longevity. The filter does not offer washable or high-flow aftermarket design features, so drivers seeking maximum airflow gains or repeated wash-and-reuse capability should look elsewhere. For fleet or owner-operators prioritizing dependable, no-surprises replacements, this fits the bill; performance tuners may prefer a performance-oriented option.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize reliable, factory-spec replacements and want a maintenance part that fits and performs predictably without modification.
Less Ideal for: Enthusiasts seeking increased airflow, repeated washable filters, or performance gains should consider aftermarket performance filters instead.
- Factory-quality fit and compatibility for the specified 6.7L Powerstroke applications
- Simple direct-replacement installation with no modifications required
- Consistent filtration to protect turbocharger and engine components
- Not a high-flow or reusable performance filter for increased airflow or cleaning and reuse
Verdict: Choose this Motorcraft filter when you want a dependable, factory-quality replacement that preserves engine protection without fuss.
6. Doc's Diesel D3806 Cabin Air Filter
| Compatible Devices | 2017-2024 Ford 6.7L Powerstroke F250/F350/F450/F550; 2018-2023 Ford F150 3.0L EcoDiesel |
|---|---|
| Filter Mounting Type | Slide In |
| Filter Shape | Rectangular |
| Material Type | Paper |
| Air Filter Construction | Pleated |
Doc's Diesel D3806 is a direct-replacement cabin air filter designed to fit 2017-2024 Ford 6.7L Powerstroke F-250/F-350/F-450/F-550 and 2018-2023 Ford F-150 3.0L EcoDiesel. It installs in the glove-box/slide-in housing like the factory part and uses pleated paper construction with electrostatic media to capture dust, pollen, and very fine particles. In everyday use it keeps the cab air cleaner and helps HVAC systems run without added strain; replacement is straightforward and follows standard 12-month or 15,000-mile service intervals. Notable features include a vehicle-specific fit, pleated construction, and claimed electrostatic filtration down to submicron particles. The practical benefits are improved in-cabin air quality and an easy, no-fuss swap that preserves factory performance. Limitations are typical of paper cabin filters: they do not offer advanced activated-carbon odor control and will need regular replacement in dusty or heavy-use conditions to maintain peak filtration.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a reliable, factory-style replacement that improves cabin air cleanliness without modifying HVAC performance and who prefer a low-risk, vehicle-specific fit.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking heavy odor control, allergy-specific activated-carbon filters, or a long-life washable solution should consider different filter types.
- Vehicle-specific fit for Ford 6.7L Powerstroke 2017-2024 and F-150 3.0L EcoDiesel 2018-2023
- Pleated paper construction with electrostatic media for fine particle capture
- Straightforward slide-in installation that matches factory replacement procedure
- Replaces common factory and aftermarket part numbers for easy interchangeability
- Made from paper media so it does not provide activated-carbon odor or gas adsorption
Verdict: A straightforward, vehicle-specific cabin filter that offers reliable particle filtration and an easy factory-style replacement for Ford diesel trucks.
Choosing the Right 2017-2022 Ford F-350 Air Filter: Key Factors to Consider
Filtration Efficiency
Filtration efficiency determines how well an air filter removes harmful particles before they reach the engine. Higher efficiency reduces abrasive wear on cylinder walls, valves, and turbocharger components, which is especially important for the heavy loads and long drives F-350 owners often encounter.
Different filter media capture different particle sizes. For diesel and turbocharged gasoline engines common in the F-350 range, capturing sub-10 micron particles helps protect sensitive injector and turbo hardware. Keep in mind that extremely tight filtration can reduce airflow, so evaluate efficiency alongside airflow ratings to avoid unintended power loss.
Airflow Impact
Airflow impact refers to how much restriction the filter adds to the intake system. Restricted airflow can reduce throttle response, peak power, and may slightly affect fuel economy under heavy load. For towing or hauling, maintaining adequate airflow helps keep turbochargers responsive and prevents heat soak.
Look for published flow curves or manufacturer data that quantify pressure drop at common flow rates. In practice, a filter that balances good particulate capture with low pressure drop is best for the F-350, because this truck frequently operates under higher engine loads where airflow matters most.
Fitment and Seal Quality
Correct physical fit and a reliable seal are essential to prevent unfiltered air from entering the intake. The 2017-2022 F-350 uses specific intake housing dimensions and seal geometries, so a filter that matches those specifications avoids bypass and installation frustration.
Poorly sized filters or low-quality seals can allow dirt to bypass the media, negating filtration benefits. Verify exact dimensions, gasket material, and installation method to ensure a solid seal with the truck's factory housing.
Durability and Service Life
Durability influences how often you need to replace or service the filter. Filters used on highway-driven trucks will typically last longer than those exposed to heavy dust, construction sites, or off-road conditions. For F-350 owners who tow or drive in dusty environments, materials that resist moisture and hold up to repeated handling are important.
Consider the expected service interval, whether the filter is washable or disposable, and how the filter construction handles repeated installations. A longer service life reduces maintenance frequency but may cost more up front.
Maintenance and Ease of Replacement
Ease of replacement impacts how quickly you can perform routine engine air filter replacement during scheduled service. A filter that installs cleanly, with clear orientation markers and a forgiving gasket, reduces the chance of incorrect installation and subsequent engine exposure to contaminants.
Some filters are washable and reusable which lowers long-term cost but adds cleaning steps. Others are replace-only and are convenient for owners who prefer a set-and-forget approach. Choose based on your willingness to perform periodic cleaning versus quick swap replacements.
Compatibility With Engine and Driving Use
Different F-350 engines and duty cycles place different demands on the air intake. Heavy towing, extended idling on job sites, or frequent short trips increase particulate exposure and may favor filters with higher capacity and deeper pleats. High-output or turbocharged variants may benefit from filters with better flow characteristics.
Confirm the filter is compatible with the specific engine option and intake configuration in your 2017-2022 F-350 to ensure performance and longevity under your typical driving conditions.
Types of Air Filter Media
Air filters commonly use paper, cotton, or synthetic media, each with tradeoffs in efficiency, airflow, and service life. Paper filters are widely used and provide reliable filtration at a low cost but are disposable and can clog more quickly in dusty conditions. Cotton or oiled gauze filters often offer improved airflow and can be serviceable, but they require proper cleaning and recharging to maintain performance. Synthetic media aim to combine high efficiency with stable airflow and often resist moisture better than oiled media.
For the 2017-2022 F-350, consider how often you encounter dust and whether you prefer a washable option for long-term use. Also assess whether the media type comes with clear care instructions to avoid damaging the filter during maintenance.
- Paper: inexpensive, disposable, predictable performance
- Cotton/oiled: reusable, higher flow potential, needs maintenance
- Synthetic: balanced efficiency and durability, often moisture-resistant
When To Replace or Service the Engine Air Filter
Replacement intervals depend on driving conditions. Highway driving in clean environments often allows longer intervals, while dusty roads, construction zones, and frequent towing accelerate clogging. Inspect the air filter visually during routine service or when you notice reduced fuel economy or sluggish throttle response.
A practical approach is to check the filter every 12,000 miles or annually, and more frequently if operating in heavy dust. If the filter is washable, follow the manufacturer's maintenance cycle; if disposable, replace it when visibly dirty or when performance symptoms appear.
- Inspect every 12,000 miles or during routine service
- Check earlier if you drive in dusty conditions or tow frequently
- Replace upon visible contamination or airflow-related symptoms
Installation Tips for the F-350
Proper installation prevents unfiltered air ingress. Before installing a new filter, clean the housing and inspect the sealing surface for cracks or dirt that could compromise the gasket. Make sure the filter seats fully and that orientation arrows or tabs align with the intake housing.
Tighten any clips or fasteners evenly and avoid over-compressing gaskets. After installation, run the engine and check for unusual intake sounds that might indicate a poor seal. For reusable filters, allow any cleaning agents or oils to dry and cure fully before reinstalling to avoid contamination.
- Clean housing and sealing surface before installation
- Verify correct orientation and full seating of the filter
- Check intake for air leaks after installing
How Air Filters Affect Fuel Economy and Performance
Air filters influence volumetric efficiency by affecting how freely air reaches the engine. A clogged or overly restrictive filter increases intake restriction, which can reduce acceleration and marginally worsen fuel economy, especially when towing heavy loads. Conversely, an excessively permissive filter that sacrifices filtration for flow risks allowing abrasive particles to damage internal components and reduce long-term efficiency.
For F-350 owners focused on the best air filter for fuel economy, look for options that strike a balance between low pressure drop and adequate particulate capture. Small gains in economy are possible with optimized airflow, but long-term engine health should remain the priority.
- Restricted filters can reduce power and MPG under load
- High-flow filters may improve throttle response but must still filter effectively
- Prioritize balanced designs that protect the engine while minimizing pressure drop
Common Fitment Questions and How to Verify Fit
Fitment for the 2017-2022 F-350 depends on the exact intake housing used by your engine and any factory airbox variations. Use the truck's model year and engine type to confirm the filter's part dimensions and any orientation requirements. Measure outside diameter, top and bottom gasket shapes, and media depth if in doubt.
When in doubt, compare the replacement filter dimensions to the factory part or the existing filter removed from the vehicle. Confirm the sealing surface materials are compatible with the F-350's housing and that installation clips or screws align with the factory mounting points.
- Confirm part dimensions against the original filter
- Check gasket shape and sealing surface compatibility
- Verify mounting hardware alignment before purchase
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ford F-350 configuration to see the most relevant Air Filters recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2017-2022 Ford F-350 Air Filter
We selected the six air filters on this list using a set of practical, vehicle-specific criteria that matter for the 2017-2022 Ford F-350. Primary evaluation metrics included filtration efficiency at common particle sizes to assess engine protection, and measured or reported airflow impact to understand potential effects on performance and fuel economy. Fitment accuracy for the F-350 intake housing and seal integrity were required to avoid bypass or installation issues. Durability and construction materials were reviewed to estimate service life in real-world dusty or towing conditions. Maintenance needs and cleaning or replacement intervals were considered to match owner preferences for low-maintenance versus serviceable options. Finally, we checked compatibility across the full 2017-2022 model years and common engine configurations within that range to ensure correct physical fit and function.We excluded any filters that lacked clear fitment data for the 2017-2022 F-350, had incomplete filtration metrics, or used nonstandard dimensions that risk improper sealing. The final list emphasizes filters that balance protection, airflow, durability, and reasonable maintenance demands for this truck.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How often should I change the engine air filter in my 2017-2022 F-350?
It depends on your driving conditions. A general schedule is to inspect around every 12,000 miles or annually, but change it sooner if you operate in dusty environments, tow frequently, or notice reduced performance.
Can I use a washable or oiled reusable filter in my F-350?
You can use reusable filters if they are compatible with the 2017-2022 F-350 fitment and you follow proper cleaning and recharging procedures. Be careful to avoid over-oiling, which can foul sensors, and allow any cleaner or oil to cure fully before reinstalling.
Does a higher-flow filter harm long-term engine life?
Not inherently, but filters that trade filtration efficiency for flow can allow more contaminants into the engine over time. Choose a filter that balances low pressure drop with strong particle capture to protect internal components.
Are cabin filters and engine air filters interchangeable on the F-350?
No. Cabin filters and engine air filters serve different systems and are not interchangeable. Use the correct part designed for the engine intake housing or the HVAC system, respectively.
Will changing the air filter improve fuel economy in my F-350?
It can, especially if the existing filter is clogged and causing significant intake restriction. Replacing a dirty filter often restores lost efficiency, but expect only modest gains if the system is otherwise in good condition.
How do I confirm the replacement filter fits my specific F-350 engine?
Compare the replacement filter's published dimensions and gasket shape to the original filter or your intake housing. Check that the part notes list compatibility with 2017-2022 F-350 and any relevant engine configurations before purchasing.
Final Verdict
When choosing an air filter for a 2017-2022 Ford F-350, prioritize filtration efficiency, proper fit, and an airflow profile suited to your typical driving and towing needs. Durable construction and an appropriate service interval will reduce downtime and protect critical engine components under heavy use. Balance the tradeoff between low restriction and particle capture based on whether you value long-term engine protection or slightly improved throttle response.Focus on filters that explicitly list fitment for the 2017-2022 F-350, provide clear filtration and flow data, and match your maintenance preferences. That approach will help you choose confidently and maintain reliable performance from your truck.
