Wanted to look at the air filter on engine. Loosened 4 clips, but the cover dont budge. Did not want to force it, so tell me what is the trick to get it off?

 

Pull it up after you've unclamped it, it's on there pretty good.q

 

There is a rubber grommet (maybe not the correct term) that holds a breather tube from the engine area that on the left side of the air filter housing unit that puts some pressure on the housing to keep it in place. The first time I took off the housing I had to reattach that tube and reseat the grommet. I remember that the first time I took it off it was *very* secure. Since then, it comes off much more easy.

If you are above 15-18k miles or in an area with alot of dust, construction, etc, I strongly recommend that you check your air filter.

Also, because the car is so low, it is prone to get mice. Yup, mice. I had to put a screen (very coarse, but sharp) to keep the mice out of the intake to the filter housing.