A filter element has a first follower element with a first traction surface and a second follower element with a second traction surface provided for interacting with first and second mating surfaces of the filter housing, respectively. The first and second traction surfaces interact with the first and second mating surfaces to pull out the filter element from the filter housing. The first and second traction surfaces are spaced apart from each other along a longitudinal axis of the filter element and project radially into the interior of the filter element. At least one of the first and second follower elements has a stop surface adjoining circumferentially the respective traction surface. In a position of use, the stop surface interacts with a counter stop surface of the filter housing to form an at least unidirectional rotational degree of freedom blocking about the longitudinal axis relative to the filter housing.