Quick answer
Our overall pick is the Briggs & Stratton 593260, a genuine OEM filter designed for many common walk-behind mower engines. Other picks suit specific needs, including multi-packs for Honda GCV engines, filters for riding mower engines, and multi-packs for Toro models.
Finding the right air filter is a key part of lawn mower maintenance. A clean filter protects your engine from dust and debris, supporting performance and longevity. We compared 22 lawn mower air filters from manufacturer listings to help you identify the correct replacement part for your specific engine model.
Quick picks
- Overall pick for common walk mowers: Briggs & Stratton 593260 Air Filter (see on Amazon)
- Genuine Honda 2-pack: Honda 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter 2-Pack (see on Amazon)
- 4-pack for Honda mowers: Emmawin 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter 4-Pack (see on Amazon)
- For Kawasaki FR/FS riding mower engines: Emmawin FR691V Air Filter 2-Pack with Pre-Cleaner (see on Amazon)
- 10-pack for Toro Recycler mowers: TidiRob Air Filter 10-Pack for Toro Recycler (see on Amazon)
22 Best Lawn Mower Air Filters compared
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Fitment (Example) | Package Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Briggs & Stratton 593260 Air Filter | Best overall for common walk-behind mowers | Briggs & Stratton | 700, 725, 750 Series engines | 1 |
| 2 | Briggs & Stratton 491588S Flat Air Filter | Best flat filter for Quantum & 625-875 Series | Briggs & Stratton | Quantum & 625-875 Series | 1 |
| 3 | Briggs & Stratton 795066 Oval Cartridge Filter | Best oval cartridge for Intek & Professional engines | Briggs & Stratton | Intek & Professional Series | 1 |
| 4 | HUAWELL 591334 Air Filter 10-Piece | Best bulk 10-pack for Briggs V-twin engines | HUAWELL | Briggs 13.5-24HP V-twins | 10 |
| 5 | Hipa 792105 Air Filter 2-Pack | Best for Briggs Extended Life V-twin engines | Hipa | Briggs 16-27HP V-twins | 2 |
| 6 | MOWFILL 496894 Air Filter 2-Pack | Best for specific 12.5-17HP Briggs engines | MOWFILL | Briggs 12.5-17HP (e.g., 28N700) | 2 |
| 7 | Lonsda 793569 Air Filter | Best single filter for 17.5-21HP Briggs engines | Lonsda | Briggs 17.5-21HP engines | 1 |
| 8 | Thouyadyeh 593260 Air Filter 2-Pack with Spark Plugs | Best 2-pack with spark plugs for 500-725EX engines | Thouyadyeh | Briggs 500-725EX series | 2 |
| 9 | shuielai 491588S Air Filter | Replacement for 491588S flat filter | shuielai | Toro, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt mowers | 1 |
| 10 | Honda 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter 2-Pack | Best genuine Honda 2-pack | Honda | GCV160LAO, GCV190LA engines | 2 |
| 11 | Emmawin 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter 4-Pack | 4-pack for Honda mowers | Emmawin | Honda HRX217, HRR216 series | 4 |
| 12 | Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter 3-Pack | Best 3-pack with wide Honda & Husqvarna fit | Hipa | Honda GCV160/190, Husqvarna HU800AWD | 3 |
| 13 | Hipa HRX217 Air Filter 2-Pack | Best for older Honda GC/GCV engine models | Hipa | Honda GC135, GCV135, etc. | 2 |
| 14 | Emmawin FR691V Air Filter 2-Pack with Pre-Cleaner | Best for Kawasaki FR/FS riding mower engines | Emmawin | Kawasaki FR651V, FR730V | 2 |
| 15 | HEYZLASS Kohler 32 083 09-S Air Filter 2-Pack | Best for Kohler 7000 Series in Cub Cadet mowers | HEYZLASS | Kohler KT715-KT745, Cub Cadet XT1 | 2 |
| 16 | TidiRob Kohler 32 083 09-S Air Filter 4-Pack | Best 4-pack for Kohler 7000 Series engines | TidiRob | Kohler 7000 Series, Cub Cadet | 4 |
| 17 | HOODELL 11013-7047 Air Filter 2-Pack with Pre-Filter | Best 2-pack with pre-filter for Kawasaki FR engines | HOODELL | Kawasaki FR651V, FR691V | 2 |
| 18 | HOODELL 951-10298 Air Filter 2-Pack with Pre-Cleaner | Best kit with pre-cleaner for MTD/Cub Cadet push mowers | HOODELL | MTD Cub Cadet SC100, 159cc OHV | 2 |
| 19 | NVLMBL Air Filter Kit for Toro Recycler | Best basic kit for Toro Recycler 22″ mowers | NVLMBL | Toro Recycler 20332-20340 | 2 |
| 20 | TidiRob Air Filter 10-Pack for Toro Recycler | Best bulk supply for Toro Recycler 22″ mowers | TidiRob | Toro Recycler 20332-20340 | 10 |
| 21 | Powtol 36905 Air Filter 2-Pack with Spark Plug | Best kit for older Tecumseh & Toro push mowers | Powtol | Tecumseh LV195EA, Toro 20016 | 2 |
| 22 | Yarezmuell Air Filter Set for Troy-Bilt TB110 | Best pre-paired kit for Troy-Bilt walk-behind mowers | Yarezmuell | Troy-Bilt TB110, TB115, TB200 | 2 |
How we chose
Our picks come from comparing manufacturer listings and specifications on Amazon as of October 2026. We did not test these products hands-on. We focused on fitment for specific engine models, construction details like pleated media or included pre-cleaners, and the value of multi-packs for frequent maintenance.
Briggs & Stratton Engine Filters
These filters are designed for Briggs & Stratton engines, which power many walk-behind and riding mowers.
1. Best overall for common walk-behind mowers: Briggs & Stratton 593260 Air Filter
Pros
- Genuine Briggs & Stratton OEM part.
- Pleated media for trapping debris.
- Lists specific compatible engine models.
Cons
- The listing does not mention if a pre-cleaner is included.
This genuine Briggs & Stratton air filter is designed for many walk-behind mower engines, including select 700, 725, and 750 Series and EXi/DOV engines. It features pleated filter media to trap debris and is built with a reliable seal for routine maintenance. The listing provides multiple replacement part numbers (798452, 593260, 5432K) and specific engine models for verification.
Best for: Homeowners with common Briggs & Stratton walk-behind mower engines seeking a genuine OEM replacement.
2. Best flat filter for Quantum & 625-875 Series: Briggs & Stratton 491588S Flat Air Filter
Pros
- Genuine Briggs & Stratton OEM part.
- Designed for specific engine series.
Cons
- The listing does not provide a list of specific engine model numbers for verification.
This is a genuine Briggs & Stratton flat air filter designed for engines in the 3.5-6.5 HP Quantum and 625-875 Series. As an OEM part, it is made to help protect engine performance and fit. The listing provides the filter’s dimensions.
Best for: Mowers with Briggs & Stratton Quantum or 625-875 Series engines that use a flat filter style.
3. Best oval cartridge for Intek & Professional engines: Briggs & Stratton 795066 Oval Cartridge Filter
Pros
- Oval shape designed for a secure housing seal.
- Pleated-paper filtration media.
- Lists compatible engine model prefixes.
Cons
- Pre-cleaner is not included; it is a separate part.
This genuine Briggs & Stratton filter is an oval, pleated-paper cartridge for select Intek and Professional series engines used in some Craftsman, Husqvarna, and Cub Cadet mowers. It is shaped to fit a specific air-cleaner housing for a secure seal. The listing notes it can be used with a separate pre-cleaner.
Best for: Walk-behind mowers with specific Briggs & Stratton Intek or Professional engines that use an oval filter cartridge.
4. Best bulk 10-pack for Briggs V-twin engines: HUAWELL 591334 Air Filter 10-Piece
Pros
- Ten filters provide a large supply.
- For higher horsepower Briggs & Stratton engines.
- Also fits some John Deere tractor models.
Cons
- The listing does not mention a pre-cleaner.
This is a ten-piece pack of air filters that replace Briggs & Stratton part 591334. It is designed for 13.5 HP to 24 HP vertical and Intek V-twin engines. The listing also notes compatibility with filters for some Husqvarna, Craftsman, and John Deere riding mowers and tractors.
Best for: Commercial users or large property owners with multiple Briggs & Stratton V-twin engine mowers.
5. Best for Briggs Extended Life V-twin engines: Hipa 792105 Air Filter 2-Pack
Pros
- Two filters in the package.
- For high-horsepower Briggs V-twin engines.
- Lists compatibility with John Deere Z425.
Cons
- The listing does not mention a pre-cleaner.
This Hipa two-pack replaces Briggs & Stratton air filter 792105. It is listed for Briggs Extended Life Series V-Twin engines from 16HP to 27HP. The listing also states compatibility with certain John Deere Z425 lawn tractors and other models.
Best for: Owners of riding mowers or lawn tractors with high-horsepower Briggs & Stratton V-twin engines.
6. Best for specific 12.5-17HP Briggs engines: MOWFILL 496894 Air Filter 2-Pack
Pros
- Two-pack for multiple changes.
- Lists specific Briggs engine model prefixes.
- Described as factory filter meeting OEM standards.
Cons
- The listing does not mention a pre-cleaner.
This two-pack replaces Briggs & Stratton air filters 496894 and 493909. It is listed for Briggs & Stratton 12.5-17HP engines with model numbers like 28N700 and 28Q700. The listing states it is a factory filter tested to meet OEM standards.
Best for: Mowers with specific 12.5-17HP Briggs & Stratton engine models.
7. Best single filter for 17.5-21HP Briggs engines: Lonsda 793569 Air Filter
Pros
- Metal mesh protection design noted.
- Lists compatibility with major mower brands.
- Replaces two common Briggs part numbers.
Cons
- Sold as a single filter, not a multi-pack.
- The listing does not mention a pre-cleaner.
This single air filter replaces Briggs & Stratton part numbers 793569 and 793685. It is designed for Briggs & Stratton 17.5HP-21HP engines and is listed as compatible with certain Craftsman, Husqvarna, and John Deere riding mower models. The listing mentions a metal mesh protection design.
Best for: Owners of riding mowers with 17.5-21HP Briggs & Stratton engines needing a single filter.
8. Best 2-pack with spark plugs for 500-725EX engines: Thouyadyeh 593260 Air Filter 2-Pack with Spark Plugs
Pros
- Includes two filters and two spark plugs.
- Made of rubber and filter paper.
- Fits a wide range of common engine series.
Cons
- The listing does not mention a pre-cleaner.
This kit includes two air filters and two spark plugs. The filters are listed as a replacement for Briggs & Stratton 593260 and fit most 500, 550E, 625, 675, and 725EX series engines. The listing states the filter is made of rubber and filter paper.
Best for: Owners of mowers with common Briggs & Stratton 500-725EX series engines wanting a filter and plug kit.
9. Replacement for 491588S flat filter: shuielai 491588S Air Filter
Pros
- Protective mesh design noted.
- Soft gasket for a secure seal.
- Wide brand compatibility listed.
Cons
- The listing advises verifying your engine model before purchase, indicating fit is not universal.
This is a replacement air filter designed to replace models 491588S and 399959. It is listed as fitting many mower models from Toro, Craftsman, Troy-Bilt, Honda, and John Deere. The listing mentions quality filter paper, a protective mesh design, and a soft gasket for a seal.
Best for: Owners of various mower brands that use the common 491588S-style flat air filter.
Honda GCV Engine Filters
These filters fit Honda GCV160 and GCV190 series engines found on many walk-behind mowers.
10. Best genuine Honda 2-pack: Honda 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter 2-Pack
Pros
- Genuine Honda OEM parts.
- Two filters in one package.
- Specified for specific Honda engine models.
Cons
- The listing does not mention a pre-cleaner.
This is a two-pack of genuine Honda air filters with part number 17211-Z8B-901. It is specified for Honda GCV160LAO and GCV190LA model engines and fits mower models like the HRR216K9. These are OEM Honda parts.
Best for: Owners of Honda mowers with GCV160LAO or GCV190LA engines who prefer genuine Honda parts.
11. 4-pack for Honda mowers: Emmawin 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter 4-Pack
Pros
- Four filters provide long-term supply.
- Lists many compatible Honda mower series.
- Described as the same size as the OEM part.
Cons
- This is not a genuine Honda part.
This Emmawin product is a four-pack of air filters that replace Honda OEM part 17211-Z8B-901. It fits Honda GCV160 and GCV190 series engines and is compatible with many HRX217, HRR216, HRS216, and HRN216 series mowers. The listing states it is the same size as the genuine part.
Best for: Owners of compatible Honda walk-behind mowers who want to stock up on multiple filters.
12. Best 3-pack with wide Honda & Husqvarna fit: Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter 3-Pack
Pros
- Three filters in the package.
- Compatibility includes some Husqvarna mowers.
- Described as equivalent to OEM size.
Cons
- This is not a genuine Honda part.
This Hipa three-pack of air filters replaces Honda part 17211-Z8B-901. It is listed as fitting Honda GCV160 and GCV190 engines, corresponding HRX, HRS, and HRR mower series, and also some Husqvarna mower models like the HU800AWD. The filters are described as equivalent in size to the genuine part.
Best for: Owners of compatible Honda or certain Husqvarna mowers looking for a multi-pack option.
13. Best for older Honda GC/GCV engine models: Hipa HRX217 Air Filter 2-Pack
Pros
- Two filters in the package.
- Extensive list of compatible older Honda engines.
- Also fits some Honda generators and tillers.
Cons
- The very wide compatibility list requires careful verification.
This two-pack from Hipa replaces several Honda air filter part numbers, including 17211-Z8B-901 and others. It is listed as compatible with a wide range of older Honda GC and GCV engine models (like GC135, GCV135) and the mowers and equipment they power, including some generators and tillers.
Best for: Owners of older Honda mowers, generators, or power equipment with GC/GCV series engines.
Riding Mower & Tractor Engine Filters
These larger filters are designed for the engines in riding lawn mowers and lawn tractors.
14. Best for Kawasaki FR/FS riding mower engines: Emmawin FR691V Air Filter 2-Pack with Pre-Cleaner
Pros
- Includes a pre-cleaner.
- Metal mesh design noted for longevity.
- Two-pack for multiple changes.
Cons
- The listing does not mention if the pre-cleaner is washable.
This two-pack is designed for Kawasaki FR and FS series engines (like FR651V, FR730V) used in many riding mowers and zero-turn mowers. It includes an air filter with a metal mesh surround and a pre-cleaner for double protection. It replaces several Kawasaki OEM part numbers.
Best for: Owners of riding mowers or zero-turn mowers with Kawasaki FR or FS series engines.
15. Best for Kohler 7000 Series in Cub Cadet mowers: HEYZLASS Kohler 32 083 09-S Air Filter 2-Pack
Pros
- Includes a washable pre-cleaner.
- Made with pleated filter paper.
- Two-pack provides a spare.
Cons
- The listing does not mention metal mesh reinforcement.
This two-pack replaces Kohler air filter model 32 083 09-S and is designed for selected Kohler 7000 series engines (KT715 to KT745). The listing notes it fits MTD Cub Cadet models like the XT1 and XT2 series. It is described as having premium rubber and pleated paper, and includes a washable pre-cleaner.
Best for: Owners of Cub Cadet or other mowers with Kohler 7000 series engines.
16. Best 4-pack for Kohler 7000 Series engines: TidiRob Kohler 32 083 09-S Air Filter 4-Pack
Pros
- Four filters in one package.
- Construction includes metal mesh.
- Lists compatible Cub Cadet models.
Cons
- The listing does not mention a pre-cleaner.
This is a four-pack of air filters for Kohler 7000 series engines like the KT725 and KT740. It replaces part numbers 32 083 09-S and KH-32-883-09-S1. The filters are constructed with pleated filter paper, rubber, and metal mesh, and the listing notes they are compatible with many Cub Cadet riding mower models.
Best for: Owners of riding mowers with Kohler 7000 series engines who want a larger supply of filters.
17. Best 2-pack with pre-filter for Kawasaki FR engines: HOODELL 11013-7047 Air Filter 2-Pack with Pre-Filter
Pros
- Includes a pre-filter.
- Two-pack for multiple changes.
- Lists compatibility with major mower brands.
Cons
- The listing does not specify if the pre-filter is washable.
This two-pack includes an air filter and a pre-filter for Kawasaki FR and FS series engines like the FR651V and FR691V. It replaces OEM numbers like 11013-7047 and 11013-0726. The listing states it is compatible with mowers from Hustler, Toro, John Deere, and others.
Best for: Owners of riding mowers with Kawasaki FR/FS engines who want a filter and pre-filter set.
18. Best kit with pre-cleaner for MTD/Cub Cadet push mowers: HOODELL 951-10298 Air Filter 2-Pack with Pre-Cleaner
Pros
- Includes a washable pre-cleaner.
- Designed as an exact replacement for specific part numbers.
- Two-pack provides a spare.
Cons
- The listing cautions it is not for part number 951-15245.
This two-pack is a replacement for Cub Cadet/MTD part 951-10298 and fits 159cc-173cc OHV engines on push mowers. The kit includes an air filter and a washable pre-cleaner for double protection. It is also listed as a replacement for several Kohler filter numbers for XT6/XT7 engines.
Best for: Owners of MTD or Cub Cadet push mowers with specific 4.5-6.5 HP OHV engines.
Multi-Pack Filters
These listings offer multiple filters in one package, which can be convenient for stocking up.
19. Best basic kit for Toro Recycler 22″ mowers: NVLMBL Air Filter Kit for Toro Recycler
Pros
- Includes two filters and a spark plug.
- Designed for specific Toro Recycler models.
Cons
- The listing provides no details on filter construction or materials.
This kit includes two air filters and one spark plug designed for Toro Recycler 22-inch lawn mowers with models 20332, 20333, 20334, 20339, and 20340. The listing does not provide material or construction details for the filters.
Best for: Owners of specified Toro Recycler 22-inch mowers looking for a basic filter and spark plug set.
20. Best bulk supply for Toro Recycler 22″ mowers: TidiRob Air Filter 10-Pack for Toro Recycler
Pros
- Ten filters provide a long-term supply.
- Direct drop-in replacement for easy installation.
- Fits multiple Toro Recycler model numbers.
Cons
- The listing does not mention a pre-cleaner or provide material details.
This is a ten-pack of replacement air filters for Toro Recycler 22-inch lawn mowers, including models 20332 through 20340. The listing states the filters are designed as a direct drop-in replacement to help protect the engine by filtering out dirt and debris.
Best for: Owners of Toro Recycler 22-inch mowers who want to stock up on many filters at once.
21. Best kit for older Tecumseh & Toro push mowers: Powtol 36905 Air Filter 2-Pack with Spark Plug
Pros
- Includes two filters and a spark plug.
- Replaces a specific Tecumseh part number.
- Fits a range of older Toro model numbers.
Cons
- Designed for older engine models that may no longer be in production.
This kit includes two Tecumseh 36905 air filters and one RJ19LM spark plug. It is listed as fitting older Tecumseh LV and LEV series engines and specific Toro 20000-series walk-behind mowers. The filters replace Tecumseh part 36905.
Best for: Owners of older mowers with Tecumseh engines or specific Toro 20000-series models.
22. Best pre-paired kit for Troy-Bilt walk-behind mowers: Yarezmuell Air Filter Set for Troy-Bilt TB110
Pros
- Includes a pre-gapped spark plug.
- Designed for specific Troy-Bilt models.
- Filter described with multi-layer construction.
Cons
- The listing's performance claims (e.g., "blocks 60% more") are not verifiable from standard specs.
This set includes an air filter and a pre-gapped spark plug. It is designed for Troy-Bilt TB110, TB115, and TB200 walk-behind mowers and is also listed as compatible with Briggs & Stratton 593260 for many 500-725EX series engines. The listing describes the filter as having 3-layer paper and a rubber gasket.
Best for: Owners of Troy-Bilt TB110/TB115/TB200 walk-behind mowers seeking a matched filter and plug set.
How to choose a lawn mower air filter
The most critical step is finding the correct filter for your specific engine. An ill-fitting filter can let debris into the engine, causing wear. Always start by locating your engine’s model number, which is usually stamped on a metal tag or sticker on the engine block. Use this number to find the manufacturer’s specified air filter part number. You can often find this in your mower’s owner’s manual or by searching the engine manufacturer’s website. Never guess based on size alone.
What to look for
- Exact Part Number Match: The safest choice is a filter that matches the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part number for your engine. Many listings provide cross-references to common replacement numbers.
- Construction & Features: Look for details like pleated paper media for filtration and a rubber gasket for a good seal. Some filters include a pre-cleaner (a foam or mesh sleeve) for an extra layer of protection, which can be washable and reusable.
- Package Quantity: For frequently used mowers, buying a two-pack, four-pack, or even a ten-pack can be convenient and ensure you always have a clean filter on hand during the mowing season.
When installing a new filter, always follow the instructions in your mower’s manual. Ensure the filter is seated properly and the air cleaner cover is securely fastened to prevent unfiltered air from bypassing the element. For more on general mower maintenance, see our guide on lawn mower parts.
FAQ
How often should I change my lawn mower air filter?
There is no single schedule that fits all conditions. Check your filter frequently—every few uses in dry, dusty conditions or at the start of the mowing season. Replace it when it appears dirty or clogged, or according to the interval specified in your mower’s owner’s manual. A clean filter is essential for proper engine airflow.
Can I clean and reuse my lawn mower air filter?
It depends on the filter type. Some foam pre-cleaners are designed to be washed, dried, and re-oiled. Most common paper or pleated paper cartridge filters, however, are not designed to be cleaned and should be replaced when dirty. Attempting to wash a paper filter can damage it. Always refer to your mower’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation for your specific filter.
What happens if I run my mower without an air filter?
Running any engine without an air filter is not recommended. It allows dust, grass clippings, and other abrasive particles to enter the engine cylinder. This can cause rapid wear on the piston, rings, and cylinder wall, leading to loss of power, increased oil consumption, and potentially severe engine damage requiring costly repairs.
Why are there so many different air filter part numbers?
Engines come in many different sizes, shapes, and horsepower ratings. The air filter housing is designed specifically for each engine model to provide the correct airflow and sealing. Therefore, the filter’s dimensions, shape, and sometimes its media type are unique to ensure a proper fit and function. Always match the filter to your engine’s model number.
References
- Amazon product listings and manufacturer specifications (accessed October 2026)
- Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI)
- Penn State Extension
