The cabin air filter on a 2020 Honda Fit is accessible behind the glove box and can be replaced by a prepared DIYer in about 10–15 minutes.
For the 2020 Honda Fit, the filter sits in a housing behind the glove box. Replacing it helps maintain interior air quality and HVAC performance. Gather a replacement cabin air filter that fits the Fit, plus a flashlight or work light; the job requires no special tools beyond basic hand assembly.
What you'll need
Before you start, assemble the items below to keep the process smooth and uninterrupted.
- Replacement cabin air filter compatible with the 2020 Honda Fit
- Flashlight or strong work light
- Clean cloth or small brush for debris
- Optional: small flat-head screwdriver to help release clips
- Optional: disposable gloves to keep hands clean
With the right parts in hand, you’re ready to begin the replacement.
Step-by-step replacement
Follow these steps in order to replace the cabin air filter on your 2020 Honda Fit.
- Park the car on a level surface, turn off the engine, and set the parking brake. Ensure the interior is cool before you start.
- Open the glove box and remove its contents. Gently squeeze the sides of the glove box to release the internal stops so the box can drop down.
- If your model uses a glove box damper, detach it by unhooking the small connector or sliding it free so the glove box can stay open.
- Look for the rectangular cabin air filter housing behind the glove box. Slide or lift the housing cover to expose the filter inside.
- Carefully remove the old filter. Note the orientation of the filter (the airflow arrows on the edge) so you can install the new one the same way.
- Wipe out any accumulated dust from the housing with a clean cloth, then insert the new filter, ensuring the arrows point toward the interior of the car (following the airflow direction shown on the filter).
- Reattach the housing cover, reseat the glove box, and reattach the damper if you removed it. Close the glove box and run the HVAC to verify airflow and seating.
After completing the steps, you should notice improved airflow and a fresher scent when the HVAC is running.
Tips and maintenance
These pointers help ensure a proper fit and longer filter life.
- Always replace with the correct filter model for the 2020 Honda Fit; check your owner’s manual or product packaging for compatibility.
- Install with the arrows indicating the direction of airflow, pointing toward the interior of the vehicle.
- Inspect the filter housing for dirt or debris and wipe it clean before inserting the new filter.
- Replace the cabin air filter every 15,000–30,000 miles (24,000–48,000 km) or more often in dusty or urban environments.
Regular replacement helps maintain HVAC efficiency and interior air quality, especially in areas with high pollution or seasonal allergies.
Summary
On the 2020 Honda Fit, the cabin air filter lives in a housing behind the glove box. Replacement is a straightforward, tool-light task that takes about 10–15 minutes. Gather a compatible replacement filter, access the glove box, swap the old filter for a new one with the correct airflow orientation, and reassemble. Regular maintenance—about once a year or every 15,000–30,000 miles—helps keep the interior air clean and the HVAC system working efficiently.