2019 Taco 2.7L Air filter problem Wix 49155

2019 Taco 2.7L Air filter
Recently purchased the truck:
I bought a replacement air Filter a Wix 49155 and it doesn't seem to fit. I know there is a squared corner that goes in the right front. It looks the same as the NAPA filter that is in there now, but I just can't get the cover to close.
Now there is some kind of screen/filter Pre-filter? (I don't know how it can be pre when it is after the filter) That is stuck up in the upper cowling, I'm not sure if that should be removed or what, I have not tried it. It doesn't seem to be in the way.

 

I have an `18 2.7, the Wix 49155 is the one that I use, and it fits fine. The screen with the charcoal behind it is part of the emissions control system. I guess that it is supposed to absorb any fuel that migrates up from the engine after you turn it off.

 

Carefully go over and scrutinize the two filters side-by-side on the bench or whatever for flaws or differences. They should match exactly when you place them back-to-back. Were you able to easily remove the old filter from it's place in the air box? Things happen. If it all still looks good, take it back to the place you got it and have them compare. FWIW, I know the filter on my son's 4cyl 2005 is a p-i-a to R&R it. It comes out of the air box pretty easily after un-clipping the cover, but he usually has to completely remove the cover from the box and disconnect the intake hose to get it back in there without a fight.

I did it for him one time as a surprise/favor and he came out and rescued me with the remove-the-cover and hose tip.

 

I compared the 2 side by side on a flat surface and they look the same. Hard to judge the thickness of the filter though, but looks about the same. I got it from Rock Auto.

 

Ok. see if your new filter will fit/drop right into the filter box with the cover removed. If it does, check to see if the pre-filter gizmo is correctly/fully in place in the cover. I don't have the 2.7 here at this time so I can't check it directly. Just know it's pesty to change/swap the filter unless I remove the cover and get the hose out of the way.