Engine air filter replacement on a 2009 Honda Fit is a quick, straightforward DIY task: locate the air filter housing in the engine bay, swap in a fresh filter, and reseal the housing. It typically takes about 5–10 minutes. You may also want to check or replace the cabin air filter to keep interior air clean.
Engine air filter replacement
What you’ll need
Before you start, have a new engine air filter that fits the 2009 Fit, optional gloves, and a clean rag or cloth to wipe out debris from the housing. The process does not require special tools, but a flat-head screwdriver can help if the clips are stubborn.
Follow these steps to replace the engine air filter.
- Park on level ground, turn off the engine, and engage the parking brake. Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing on the passenger side of the engine bay, near the wheel well.
- Disconnect or loosen the intake duct clamp if needed to free the housing lid. Release the two clips or screws that secure the lid.
- Lift the lid off the housing and carefully remove the old air filter. Inspect the inside of the housing for dirt or debris and wipe it clean with a rag if needed.
- Check the new filter for orientation. The filter usually has an arrow or a “This Side Up” indicator showing the correct airflow direction toward the engine. Insert the new filter so the orientation matches the old one.
- Reinstall the housing lid and secure the clips or screws. Reattach the intake duct if you detached it, making sure the connection is tight and sealed.
- Close the hood and start the engine to ensure it runs smoothly and there are no unusual noises.
After completing the engine filter replacement, double-check that no tools or debris are left in the engine bay and that the air intake is properly connected. If you notice any misfires or reduced performance, recheck the filter orientation and seals.
Cabin air filter replacement
What you’ll need
For the cabin air filter, you’ll need a replacement cabin filter that fits the 2009 Fit. Optional gloves and a flashlight can help you see inside the glove box area more clearly.
Follow these steps to replace the cabin air filter.
- Park on level ground, turn off the engine, and open the passenger-side glove box. Remove any contents to access the glove box.
- Gently squeeze the sides of the glove box to release the stops and allow the box to drop down. Behind it sits the cabin air filter housing.
- Remove the filter housing cover by releasing the clips or tabs. Slide out the old cabin filter and inspect the area for any loose debris.
- Insert the new cabin filter with the arrows pointing toward the rear of the vehicle (the direction of airflow into the HVAC system). Make sure the filter seats fully in the housing.
- Reattach the filter housing cover and lift the glove box back into its place, securing the stops as needed. Return the contents to the glove box.
- Turn on the HVAC and run the fan briefly to confirm that air is flowing through the new filter.
Once the cabin filter is replaced, you’ve improved interior air quality and HVAC efficiency. If you notice reduced airflow, recheck the filter orientation and housing seal.
Summary
For a 2009 Honda Fit, replacing the engine air filter is a quick DIY task that usually takes about 5–10 minutes and involves opening the air filter housing, swapping the filter, and resecuring the lid. Replacing the cabin air filter is a separate, similarly straightforward job that improves interior air quality and HVAC performance. Regularly check both filters and replace them at the intervals recommended in your owner’s manual, or sooner in dusty or high-pollen environments.