The 2017 Honda Civic has two air filters: one engine air filter and one cabin air filter.
One filters air entering the engine for combustion, while the other cleans air entering the passenger compartment through the HVAC system. Maintaining both filters helps protect engine performance and improve interior air quality.
Two essential air filters and their roles
These two filters perform distinct jobs within the Civic’s air systems.
- Engine air filter: cleans incoming air before it reaches the engine, reducing dust and debris that can wear engine components and affect performance.
- Cabin air filter: cleans air that is circulated through the vehicle’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, improving interior air quality and comfort.
Together, these filters support both engine efficiency and passenger comfort.
Where to locate them in a 2017 Civic
Knowing where these filters sit helps with inspection and replacement.
- Engine air filter: located in the engine bay inside a rectangular airbox at the front of the compartment. Access typically requires unclipping or unscrewing the airbox cover.
- Cabin air filter: located behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access usually involves opening the glove box, releasing a damper, and removing a filter housing cover.
Accessing either filter is straightforward, but cabin filter replacement can be messier due to interior trim, so plan accordingly.
Maintenance and replacement intervals
Typical maintenance timelines help ensure optimal performance and air quality, though conditions can alter replacement needs.
- Engine air filter: generally around 30,000 miles (about 48,000 km) under normal driving; more frequently in dusty or harsh environments. Always consult the owner’s manual for your exact interval.
- Cabin air filter: typically around 15,000 miles (about 24,000 km) under normal conditions; replace sooner in cities with heavy pollution or for allergy-sensitive occupants.
Regular inspection during routine service can catch degraded filters early, preventing reduced airflow and potential odor or allergen issues.
Filter options to consider
When replacing the cabin filter, you may encounter a few options, depending on trim and availability.
- Standard cabin filter: basic filtration for dust and pollen.
- Activated carbon cabin filter: adds deodorizing and pollutant-adsorbing capabilities for urban environments.
- Engine air filter variants: typically a standard replace-at-interval filter; some aftermarket options emphasize higher filtration efficiency.
For most drivers, a standard engine air filter and an activated-carbon cabin filter provide a good balance of performance and value.
Summary
In summary, the 2017 Honda Civic uses two air filters: one to clean the engine’s intake air and one to purify the air inside the cabin. Proper maintenance—checking and replacing these filters at appropriate intervals—helps sustain engine performance and interior air quality. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual or a trusted technician for location-specific guidance and replacement recommendations.