How to Change a Mercury Verado Air Filter

This step-by-step guide will walk you through changing your Mercury Verado air filter. A clean and properly functioning air filter is vital for the optimal performance of your outboard engine, ensuring that it receives clean air for combustion.

In the video embedded within this article, the air filter change was performed on a Mercury Verado 300. However, the video and the step-by-step instructions included within this article apply to:

Verado L6 Models, 200 – 400 HP

Whether preparing for the boating season or troubleshooting a performance issue, changing the air filter is a vital but simple task you can accomplish on your own. With just a few simple steps, you can keep your Mercury outboard running smoothly and enjoy your time on the water with peace of mind.

*Note* An air filter is not included in Mercury Verado L6 300-hour maintenance kits. Regardless, air filter change is a recommended step within 300-hour service for Verado L6 models.

What You’ll Need for the Job

How Often Should You Change Your Mercury Verado Air Filter?

Mercury Verado maintenance schedules generally call for an air filter change as part of a 300-hour service. However, the frequency of air filter replacement depends on various factors such as operating conditions, engine hours, and the environment in which the outboard is used. Some general guidelines include the following:

Inspect the air filter: Regularly examine the condition of the air filter during routine maintenance or before every boating season. Look for signs of dirt, debris, clogging, or damage.
Replace the air filter: If the air filter in your Mercury outboard is noticeably dirty or damaged, replacing it with a new one is highly recommended. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations or the owner’s manual for the specific replacement interval.

By adhering to these guidelines and following the manufacturer’s recommendations, you can maintain a clean and functional air filter in your Mercury outboard.

Why is it Important to Change the Air Filter in a Mercury Verado?

The air filter plays a crucial role in maintaining the performance and longevity of your Mercury Verado outboard engine. Changing the air filter in your Mercury Verado is vital for several important reasons:

Optimal engine performance: The air filter ensures that only clean air enters the engine for combustion. A clean air filter allows for proper airflow, ensuring the engine receives the necessary oxygen for efficient combustion and power output.
Fuel efficiency: A clogged or dirty air filter restricts the airflow to the engine, leading to an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, which can result in reduced fuel efficiency, causing your outboard to consume more fuel than necessary.
Engine protection: The air filter acts as a barrier, preventing dust, dirt, debris, and other contaminants from entering the engine. Regularly changing the air filter helps safeguard the engine from potential damage caused by these particles.
Longevity of engine components: Clean air is essential for the longevity of engine components. Maintaining a clean air filter reduces the risk of abrasive particles reaching sensitive engine parts, minimizing wear and tear.
Prevention of performance issues: A dirty or clogged air filter can lead to performance issues, such as reduced power, rough idling, or difficulty starting the engine.

Preparing to Change a Filter: You’ll Need the Following:

User manual or service guide: Consult the outboard’s user manual or service guide to accurately locate the air filter and understand the specific instructions for your model.
Screwdriver or drill: Have a screwdriver or drill ready to loosen the hose clamp that secures the air filter.
New air filter: Obtain a new one compatible with your Mercury outboard model.

How to Change a Mercury Outboard Air Filter: A Step-by-step Guide

You’ll need the following:

Air filter
Screwdriver or drill

To change the air filter in your Mercury outboard, follow these steps for a smooth and effective process:

Ensure safety: Prioritize your safety by turning off the Mercury outboard and removing the key from the ignition.
Locate the air filter: Refer to the outboard’s user manual or service guide to find the exact location of the air filter.
Remove the hose clamp: Using a screwdriver or drill, loosen the hose clamp that secures the air filter in place. Carefully detach the clamp to allow for the removal of the old filter.
Remove the old air filter: Once you’ve loosened the hose clamp, remove the old air filter from its position. Properly dispose of the old filter.
Install the new filter: Begin the installation process by reattaching the rubber housing inserts to the top of the new air filter. Ensure it is correctly oriented.
Secure the rubber housing insert: Twist the rubber housing inserts to secure it in place. Confirm that it is straight and tightly fitted.
Slide in the new air filter: Insert the new air into its designated spot. Ensure a proper and snug fit.
Check for the seating groove: Examine the housing for a small groove where the filter should be seated. Confirm that the new filter is correctly situated within this groove.

Knowing how to change your Mercury Verado’s air is essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and efficiency. Regularly changing the air filter, as the manufacturer recommends, will help protect your engine from contaminants, improve fuel efficiency, and prolong the life of your Mercury outboard. Proper maintenance and timely air filter replacements allow you to enjoy smooth and reliable boating experiences for years.

PartsVu is proud to provide all of the Mercury outboard parts you need to keep your engine operating at its best for years to come.

Important Note

Always consult your engine’s owner’s manual for instructions and information specific to your engine. If you need clarification on changing an air filter, consult a Mercury Marine-certified mechanic.

PartsVu and Platinum Mobile Marine Partnership

Huge thanks go to Frank Cutri, the owner and operator of Platinum Mobile Marine, a mobile mechanic service serving the Lee County, Florida area for partnering with PartsVu on the Boat Maintenance Matters series.

Together, we are working hard to build a library of step-by-step instructions on common outboard motor repair and maintenance tasks.