You can replace the engine air filter in about 5–10 minutes by accessing the air-filter housing, removing the old filter, and installing a new one. The 2015 Accord uses either the 2.4L four-cylinder or the 3.5L V6, both with a similar air-filter housing in the engine bay.
In this guide, we walk through locating the housing, selecting the correct filter, and performing the swap safely and efficiently. Regular replacement helps maintain fuel efficiency and engine longevity, especially in dusty conditions. Check your owner's manual for the recommended replacement interval, which is typically around 30,000 miles under normal driving and sooner in dusty or urban environments.
Tools and parts you’ll need
Before listing the items, here is what you’ll typically need to complete the job. Having these on hand will help the process go smoothly.
Engine variants and housing layout
Both the 2.4L and the 3.5L engines in the 2015 Accord use a rectangular air-filter housing in the engine bay. The exact location is usually on the passenger side near the front of the engine bay, connected to an intake duct. If you can’t locate it immediately, consult the owner’s manual or follow the large intake hose from the throttle body—the housing sits at the end of that path.
- One replacement engine air filter compatible with your 2015 Accord (confirm whether your car uses the 2.4L or the 3.5L engine).
- A flat-head screwdriver or Phillips screwdriver (depending on whether the housing uses clips or screws).
- A clean rag or microfiber cloth for wiping the inside of the housing.
- Gloves for hand protection (optional).
- A flashlight or smartphone light to inspect tight corners inside the housing (optional but helpful).
Having the right filter and basic tools on hand makes the swap straightforward and reduces the chance of leaving debris in the intake.
Step-by-step instructions
These steps outline the standard process for replacing the air filter on a 2015 Honda Accord. Some details may vary slightly between the 2.4L and 3.5L engines; the general approach remains the same.
Note on engine variants
If you have the 2.4L engine, the housing and fasteners are typically similar to those on the 3.5L, but the exact clip positions may differ. If you run into resistance, refer to the manual for the specific fastener type (clips vs screws) used on your model.
- Park the car on a level surface, turn off the engine, and engage the parking brake. Wait a few minutes for the engine to cool before touching components in the engine bay.
- Open the hood and locate the air-filter housing. It is a rectangular plastic box in the engine bay, usually on the passenger side near the front, with an intake hose connected to it. If needed, loosen the hose clamp and detach the intake duct from the housing to access the cover.
- Release the fasteners that secure the housing cover. This could be a series of clips or small screws. Remove the cover carefully and set it aside with the screws/clips in a safe place.
- Remove the old air filter from the housing. Take note of the filter’s orientation (there is typically an arrow on the filter frame indicating airflow direction). If you’re unsure, match the orientation to the position of the new filter.
- Inspect the inside of the housing for debris or signs of wear. Wipe the interior with a dry rag and ensure there are no cracks in the housing seal that could let unfiltered air in.
- Install the new air filter into the housing, ensuring it sits flat and oriented the same as the old one. The arrow on the filter should point in the direction of airflow toward the engine. \n
- Replace the housing cover and re-secure all fasteners or clips firmly. If you detached the intake duct, reconnect it and tighten the hose clamp securely.
- Close the hood and start the engine. Listen for any unusual noises that might indicate the housing isn’t seated properly or there is a loose connection. If everything sounds normal, you’ve completed the replacement.
With the job done, you’ve refreshed one of the engine’s primary filters, helping to protect the intake and improve overall performance.
Common mistakes to avoid
Be mindful of these common missteps to ensure a clean, effective replacement.
- Using the wrong filter size or type for your engine variant (2.4L vs 3.5L).
- Forcing the filter or housing lid, which can damage seals or clips.
- Forgetting to reattach the intake duct or secure fasteners properly, causing unfiltered air leaks.
- Leaving debris inside the housing or not seating the filter correctly, reducing filtration efficiency.
Following these tips helps ensure the replacement lasts and the engine continues to run smoothly.
Summary
Changing the engine air filter on a 2015 Honda Accord is a quick DIY task that most drivers can complete in under 15 minutes with basic tools. Locate the rectangular air-filter housing in the engine bay, remove the old filter, insert a correctly oriented new filter, and reseal the housing. Always confirm you’re using the right filter for your 2.4L or 3.5L engine, keep the housing clean, and recheck connections after replacement. Regular checks and timely replacement support better fuel economy and engine longevity.


