I have a 2008 es350 and I am trying to change the air filter. I don't do a lot of car maint but this has never been a big job for me with the other cars that I have owned. I opened three clips and although I can now see the filter I can't seem to get the housing open enough to get the filter out. I am sure it is something simple but in the mean time I don't want to force anything. I am not talking about the cabin air filter.

I replaced my engine air filter recently and had the same concerns. Just pry it open enough that the filter will come out; the three clips are all that need to be removed. It is a very tight squeeze, but it will come out. I thought I was going to brake something as well, but after checking with the dealer, it sure enough just came right out.

(My cabin filter was disgusting at 20k miles; the engine filter was dirty, but not nearly as bad.)

Thanks!! i am now going to plow ahead.