The 2015 Honda Civic has two air filters: one engine air filter and one cabin air filter.
These filters serve different purposes: the engine air filter cleans intake air to protect the engine, while the cabin air filter purifies air entering the vehicle’s interior. This article explains what they are, where they’re located, and how to replace them when needed.
What are the two filters and what do they do?
Two filters work to keep both the engine and the interior air clean. The list below identifies each filter and its role.
- Engine air filter — cleans air entering the engine’s intake to prevent dirt from causing wear or reducing performance.
- Cabin air filter — cleans air entering the passenger compartment via the HVAC system, trapping dust, pollen, and pollutants.
In addition to their functions, note that both filters require periodic inspection and replacement to maintain performance and air quality.
Engine air filter
The engine air filter is located in the air intake box under the hood. It should be inspected for dirt and replaced when dirty or clogged to maintain optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Cabin air filter
The cabin filter sits behind the glove box (or under the dash, depending on trim) and protects interior air quality by filtering dust, pollen, and pollutants. Replace it when airflow from the vents diminishes or odors are noticeable.
Where to find them and how to inspect
Here's where to locate each filter on a typical 2015 Civic and guidance on inspection.
- Engine air filter location: under the hood in the main engine bay air intake box; the housing is usually secured with clips or a screw-cap cover. Inspect for visible dirt or a clogged filter.
- Cabin air filter location: behind the glove box; may require lowering the glove box or removing a panel to access the filter; inspect for heavy dust buildup or musty odors.
Check the filters at regular service intervals or sooner if you notice reduced engine performance, unusual smells, or decreased HVAC airflow.
Recommended replacement intervals and signs of wear
General guidance for typical driving conditions is provided below, but your owner’s manual may have trim-specific figures. Consider environmental conditions such as dust or construction zones.
- Engine air filter: commonly replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, or sooner in dusty or harsh conditions; signs of wear include reduced engine performance or a visibly dirty filter.
- Cabin air filter: commonly replaced every 15,000 to 25,000 miles under normal conditions; replace sooner if you notice reduced airflow, musty odors, or increased dust inside the cabin.
Always confirm with your owner's manual and consult a qualified technician if you’re unsure.
How to replace both filters: step-by-step guide
Below is a general how-to to swap the filters, but consult your manual for trim-specific details.
- Prepare the vehicle: park on a level surface, turn off the engine, and engage the parking brake; gather the correct replacement filters.
- Replace engine air filter: locate the air filter box under the hood, unclip or unbolt the housing, remove the old filter, clean the housing, insert the new filter with the correct orientation, and reseal the box.
- Replace cabin air filter: access behind the glove box (you may need to remove or lower the glove box), remove the old filter, clean the housing, insert the new filter in the correct direction, and reassemble the cover and glove box.
- Test and finalize: reseat all components, start the engine, and run the HVAC to confirm airflow and absence of odd noises.
With both filters replaced, your Civic should maintain better engine efficiency and cleaner cabin air, along with consistent airflow from the HVAC system.
Summary
The 2015 Honda Civic uses two air filters: an engine air filter and a cabin air filter. Regular inspection and replacement—typically every 30,000–50,000 miles for the engine filter and 15,000–25,000 miles for the cabin filter (environment dependent)—helps sustain performance and interior air quality. Always check the owner's manual for trim-specific intervals and use high-quality replacements.