In about 5–10 minutes, you can replace the engine air filter by locating the air box on the passenger side of the engine bay, opening the housing, swapping in a new filter with the correct orientation, and reseating the cover.
In this article you’ll learn what you need, how to locate the air filter housing, how to remove the old filter, and how to install a new one correctly for the 1.5L and 2.0L engines, along with maintenance tips and what to watch for over time.
What you’ll need
Gather these items before you begin so you can complete the swap without interruptions.
- New engine air filter compatible with your 2018 Honda Accord (confirm whether you have the 1.5L or 2.0L engine).
- Clean rag or microfiber cloth for wiping the inside of the housing.
- Small flat-head screwdriver (optional, for stubborn clips).
- Flashlight to inspect inside the air box for dust and debris.
- Owner’s manual or filter part number to ensure you buy the correct replacement.
With these items on hand, you’re ready to start the replacement process.
Step-by-step guide
Follow these steps in order to replace the engine air filter on your 2018 Accord.
- Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine.
- Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing on the passenger side of the engine bay. It’s a rectangular black plastic box with clips or latches.
- Release the clips or latches and lift the housing cover to expose the filter.
- If present, gently unplug the electrical connector for the MAF sensor attached to the air intake tube or the housing.
- Remove the old air filter and note its orientation (the air flow arrow on the filter should point toward the engine).
- Wipe the inside of the housing with a clean rag to remove dust and debris.
- Place the new filter into the housing in the same orientation as the old one, ensuring it sits flat and seals around the edges.
- Reattach the housing cover and secure the clips or latches firmly. If you disconnected the MAF connector, reconnect it.
- Double-check that all hoses and connections are secure, then close the hood and start the engine to ensure it runs smoothly.
- If you hear whistling or a rough idle, recheck the lid seating and the filter orientation to ensure a proper seal.
After completing the steps, you’ve replaced the air filter and helped maintain the Accord’s performance and fuel economy.
Compatibility and maintenance tips
Both the 1.5L turbo and 2.0L turbo versions of the 2018 Accord use a similar air intake box, but always verify the exact filter size for your VIN when purchasing a replacement. The recommended replacement interval varies by driving conditions, but a common range is roughly 15,000–30,000 miles. If you drive in dusty or harsh conditions, inspect and replace more frequently according to Honda’s maintenance minder or your owner's manual.
Summary
Changing the engine air filter on a 2018 Honda Accord is a straightforward, low-cost maintenance task that can be completed in minutes with basic tools. By locating the air filter housing, replacing the filter with the correct orientation, and reseating the cover securely, you’ll help your engine breathe clean air, maintain performance, and improve efficiency. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the exact interval and filter part number for your specific engine variant.