Two air filters are used in the 2018 Honda Pilot: one engine air filter and one cabin air filter.
The two filtration components protect the engine and improve interior air quality, helping performance and comfort in varying driving conditions.
What filters are in the 2018 Honda Pilot?
The 2018 Pilot relies on two main filtration elements in its air systems. Below are the details for each filter, including location and replacement considerations.
Engine air filter
Function and location: The engine air filter sits in the air intake box in the engine bay and prevents dust and debris from entering the engine. Replacement interval: about 30,000 miles under normal driving; more frequent (around 15,000–20,000 miles) in very dusty or harsh conditions.
- Location: engine compartment; in the rectangular airbox near the front/side of the engine bay.
- Purpose: blocks dust and debris from reaching the intake and combustion chambers.
- Replacement interval: typically around 30,000 miles under normal conditions; adjust for conditions.
Keeping the engine air filter in good condition helps maintain performance and fuel economy, especially in dusty environments.
Cabin air filter
Function and location: The cabin air filter sits behind the passenger-side glove box (often behind a removable panel) and cleans the air entering the HVAC system. Replacement interval: typically every 15,000 miles or 12 months; replace sooner if you notice odors, reduced airflow, or allergy symptoms.
- Location: behind the glove box on the passenger side; access may require lowering the glove box or removing trim.
- Purpose: filters pollen, dust, and other particulates from entering the cabin.
- Replacement interval: generally about every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Regular cabin filter replacement helps maintain interior air quality and HVAC efficiency.
Replacement guidance
To keep both filtration systems performing well, follow these general guidelines for replacement intervals. The exact intervals can vary by driving conditions and environment.
- Engine air filter: replace about every 30,000 miles under normal conditions; more frequent in dusty or off-road conditions.
- Cabin air filter: replace about every 15,000 miles or 12 months; more often in high-pollen seasons or in vehicles with multiple passengers.
Adhering to these intervals helps protect the engine and maintain cabin comfort.
How to replace
Engine air filter replacement
Steps: locate the engine air filter box, unclip or unscrew the cover, remove the old filter, inspect for debris, insert the new filter with correct orientation, reseal and secure the box, then reset any clips.
Cabin air filter replacement
Steps: open or lower the glove box to access the cabin air filter housing, remove the old filter, clean the housing, insert the new filter with the correct airflow direction (if indicated), reassemble the glove box.
Summary
The 2018 Honda Pilot uses two air filters: an engine air filter and a cabin air filter. The engine filter is located in the engine bay, the cabin filter behind the glove box, with typical replacement intervals around 30,000 miles for the engine and 15,000 miles or 12 months for the cabin. Regular maintenance ensures optimum engine protection and interior air quality.
Always consult the owner's manual for model-specific guidance and use genuine or high-quality aftermarket replacements designed for your vehicle.
Can a bad air filter cause a misfire?
In extreme cases, an engine will run very roughly when its air filter is too dirty. A driver may notice their vehicle's engine misfiring, vibrating excessively, stalling, or a combination of these symptoms when the engine's air filter is clogged.
Where is the air filter on a 2018 Honda Pilot?
Inside just pull the old air filter up to remove it. And here's a sideby-side comparison of the old filter. And new filter.
What are common problems with a 2018 Honda Pilot?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Electrical Accessories.
- Fuel System/Emissions.
- In-car Electronics.
- Exhaust.
- Transmission Major.
- Paint/Trim.
- Drive System.
- Transmission Minor.
How many air filters does a Honda Pilot have?
two basic air
There are two basic air filters in your 2022 Honda Pilot. The engine air filter is located in the engine bay and is used to filter out harmful and perilous particles that may cause damage to your vehicle's engine.


