Replacing the engine air filter and the cabin air filter on a 2019 Honda Accord is a straightforward DIY task. The engine air filter should be replaced when dirty or every 15,000–30,000 miles under normal conditions, while the cabin filter is typically changed every 15,000–30,000 miles or at least once a year, with more frequent changes in dusty environments. This guide walks you through both replacements with clear, actionable steps.
Engine air filter replacement
Below is a step-by-step process for swapping the engine air filter. You’ll work with the rectangular air filter housing and the intake tube in the engine bay. Gather a replacement engine air filter that matches your Accord’s engine and orient the new filter the same way the old one sat.
- Park on a flat surface, apply the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Open the hood and let the engine cool if it’s warm.
- Locate the engine air filter housing: a rectangular black plastic box in the engine bay connected to a large intake hose.
- Loosen the hose clamp on the intake tube if needed, and detach the tube from the air filter housing.
- Release the clips or screws securing the air filter housing lid, then lift the lid away from the housing.
- Remove the old engine air filter and note its orientation (the arrow on the filter should point toward the engine; mirror orientation of the old filter if that’s how you found it).
- Use a clean rag to wipe out any dirt or debris from inside the housing. Do not leave lint or loose debris behind.
- Install the new filter in the same orientation as the old one, ensuring it sits flat and fully seals the housing.
- Reinstall the housing lid and secure the clips or screws. Reattach the intake tube and tighten the hose clamp if used.
- Close the hood. Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises to confirm proper seating.
The engine air filter replacement is now complete. If you notice any air intake whistling or rough idle after replacement, recheck the housing seals and filter orientation to ensure a proper seal.
Cabin air filter replacement
The cabin air filter cleans the air entering the HVAC system and helps with odor control and airflow. The following steps guide a typical replacement behind the glove box. Have a new cabin filter ready, and refer to your owner’s manual for any model-specific nuances.
- Park the car on a level surface, then turn off the engine and remove the key. Open the glove box.
- If present, remove the glove box damper or stoppers so the glove box can drop down further. You may need to gently squeeze the sides of the glove box to release it.
- Let the glove box hang down or rest securely, exposing the cabin air filter access panel located behind it.
- Release the clips or tabs holding the filter cover in place and remove the cover panel.
- Pull out the old cabin air filter. Note the direction of the airflow arrows printed on the filter housing or filter itself.
- Wipe or vacuum the cavity if needed to remove dust and debris, then insert the new filter with the arrows pointing in the correct airflow direction (toward the HVAC system intake).
- Reinstall the filter cover, reattach the glove box damper/stops, and close the glove box.
- Turn on the fan briefly to ensure air is flowing smoothly through the new filter and that there are no unusual sounds.
With the cabin filter replacement completed, you should notice improved HVAC performance and potentially reduced odors in the cabin. If airflow seems weak, double-check the filter seating and ensure the cover is securely fastened.
Summary
Replacing both engine and cabin air filters on a 2019 Honda Accord is a manageable maintenance task that can improve engine performance and interior air quality. Always use the correct replacement filters, orient them properly, and ensure all housings and clamps are securely reassembled. Performing these simple upkeep steps at recommended intervals helps keep the car running efficiently and the interior environment comfortable.