In short, the cabin air filter on a 2020 HR-V sits behind the glove box on the passenger side. The replacement involves freeing the glove box, removing the old filter from its housing, installing a new filter with the correct airflow orientation, and reassembling. The process is straightforward and can be completed in about 10–15 minutes with a few basic tools.
What you’ll need
Before you begin, gather the right supplies and set up a clean workspace. The job is typically quick and requires minimal tools, but having everything on hand helps prevent interruptions.
- A new cabin air filter compatible with the 2020 Honda HR-V (OEM or quality aftermarket)
- Gloves to keep hands clean while handling debris
- Flashlight or a bright light source for visibility
- Optional: microfiber cloth to wipe the housing interior
With the correct replacement filter and a tidy working area, you’ll complete the swap efficiently and reduce the chance of introducing dust into the HVAC system.
Step-by-step replacement
The following steps guide you through the replacement from prep to finish. Follow them in order to ensure proper seating and airflow.
- Park the car on a level surface, turn off the engine, and set the parking brake. Open the passenger-side glove box.
- Remove the contents of the glove box and gently press inward on the sides to release any dampers or stoppers, if present.
- Lower the glove box by allowing it to hang down; on some models you may need to unhook side hinges or detach a stop.
- Locate the cabin air filter housing behind the glove box. It’s a rectangular chamber with a removable cover.
- Release or slide the housing cover to access the old filter. Remove the cover and set it aside.
- Take out the used cabin filter, noting its orientation. Dispose of it and inspect the housing for dust or debris.
- Wipe the inside of the housing with a clean cloth if needed to remove any debris; ensure the area is dry and clean.
- Insert the new filter with the airflow arrows pointing toward the dash. Make sure the filter sits evenly and fully within the housing.
- Replace the housing cover and secure it as it was originally fastened.
- Raise the glove box back into place, reattach any dampers or stops, reinsert the contents, and test the HVAC system to confirm clean airflow.
After you’ve completed the steps, the new cabin filter should be in place and the interior air should feel fresher. If you notice reduced airflow or continued odor, double-check that the filter is oriented correctly and fully seated.
Tips and considerations
Regular replacement helps maintain cabin air quality, particularly in dusty or urban environments. Use OEM or high-quality aftermarket filters designed for the HR-V, and consult your owner’s manual for recommended replacement intervals and any model-specific notes.
Summary: Replacing the cabin filter on a 2020 Honda HR-V is a quick, tool-light maintenance task that restores cabin air quality. Access is behind the glove box on the passenger side; you remove the glove box, swap in a new filter with the correct orientation, and reassemble. With a little care, you can complete the job in about 10–15 minutes.