Two air filters are relevant on a 2009 Honda Accord: the engine air filter in the engine bay and the cabin air filter behind the glove box. Replacing both is a straightforward maintenance task that most owners can handle with basic tools.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly where each filter lives on this model year and how to replace them, with practical, step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure a proper seal and optimal air flow.
Engine air filter: location and replacement
To replace the engine air filter, locate the rectangular air-filter housing in the engine bay. It’s typically on the passenger side toward the front of the engine compartment and is connected to a large intake hose leading to the throttle body.
Before beginning, gather any needed tools (often just your hands or a simple screwdriver) and ensure the engine is cool. Follow these steps:
- Park the car on level ground, engage the parking brake, and turn off the engine. Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing.
- Identify how the housing is secured (clips or screws) and carefully release the fasteners to lift the cover.
- Take out the old filter and note the orientation of the pleats. Do not bend or crumple it.
- Wipe the inside of the housing with a dry cloth to remove any dust or debris.
- Insert the new filter with the correct orientation (the arrows on the filter should point toward the engine).
- Re-seal the housing by reattaching the cover and securing the clips or screws firmly.
- Reconnect any hoses, close the hood, and start the engine to ensure smooth operation.
Replacing the engine air filter is commonly recommended every 30,000 miles under normal driving, but check your owner’s manual for the exact interval and adjust for dusty or harsh operating conditions.
Cabin air filter: location and replacement
The cabin air filter for a 2009 Accord is located behind the glove box on the passenger side of the dashboard. Access usually requires lowering the glove box by releasing its stoppers or hinges, revealing a rectangular filter housing behind a cover labeled “CABIN AIR FILTER.”
Here are the steps to replace it:
- Open the glove box and remove any contents. Gently disconnect or loosen the dampers/springs on the sides to allow the glove box to hang down.
- Lower the glove box to expose the filter housing behind it. If needed, remove the cover by unhooking clips or removing a few screws.
- Take out the old cabin filter, noting its orientation. Clean any visible debris from the housing.
- Insert the new filter with the correct orientation, ensuring it sits snugly in the housing.
- Reattach the filter cover, lift the glove box back into place, and re-secure the dampers or stops.
- Close the glove box and start the vehicle’s HVAC to verify airflow and that no rattling occurs.
Cabin filter replacement is generally recommended about once a year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, depending on air quality and driving conditions. If you or passengers notice reduced airflow or a musty odor, it’s a good time to replace it.
Summary
In a 2009 Honda Accord, there are two filters worth knowing about: the engine air filter in the engine bay and the cabin air filter behind the glove box. The engine filter sits in a rectangular housing on the passenger side of the engine bay and is replaced by removing the housing cover and swapping in a new filter. The cabin filter lives behind the glove box and is accessed by lowering the glove box to reach the filter housing, swapping in a new filter, and reassembling. Regular replacement improves engine performance, fuel efficiency, and interior air quality.