A filter element (100) that is to be mounted in a housing (102) has at least one substantially hollow cylindrical pleated filter (10, 20) designed to separate liquid from aerosol, and two cover elements (30, 40) designed to cover axial end regions (12, 14, 22, 24) of the pleated filter (10, 20). The axial end portions (12, 14, 22, 24) of the at least one pleated filter (10, 20) are pressed against the cover element (30, 40) by an axial compressing force. The at least one pleated filter (10, 20) is secured in the axial direction, and one respective sealing zone (16, 18, 26, 28) is formed between each pleated filter (10, 20) and each cover element (30, 40).