Yes, I know, the air filter housing is a bit of a pain to deal with, but the same thing that makes it a challenge to check also makes it an ideal home for rodents. I got lucky and found this nest before they chewed through the filter. Preety sure that would have been bad for the engine

 

Good information! Make sure that the woolly worm hose is connected and no holes from those varmits to get into the air filter box!

 

There is nothing to prevent them from climbing up in the fender and entering the wooly worm hose. I'm going to see if I can fabricate a screen to keep them out

 

Rodents love HHR's...

 

They are a tasty treat! Wiring harness! Breakfast of champions! Air filters for lunch!

 

Gutter Guard mesh is just right for this, imo..

 

I just go ahead and put the new filter in after all the stuff you have to remove to get a look at the condition of air filter.