The engine air filter sits in a rectangular housing in the engine bay on the passenger side, and the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box.
In a 2010 Honda Accord, there are two air filters you might need to service. The engine filter cleans air entering the intake, while the cabin filter cleans air entering the passenger compartment. Knowing their locations helps with routine maintenance and ensuring optimal performance and cabin comfort.
Engine air filter location and replacement
What you’ll need
Replacement engine air filter, optional flat-head screwdriver or pliers for clips/screws, and a clean rag for wiping the housing interior.
- Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing. It’s a rectangular black box on the passenger side of the engine bay, connected to the large intake hose.
- Release the clips or screws on the housing lid and lift the lid off.
- Remove the old filter and check its orientation. Most filters have an arrow showing airflow direction; take note of how the old filter sits.
- Inspect the inside of the housing for debris. Wipe it out with a clean rag if needed, taking care not to push debris into the intake.
- Insert the new filter with the correct orientation, matching the airflow arrow to the direction toward the throttle body.
- Reattach the housing lid and secure the clips or screws, ensuring a snug seal.
- Reconnect any hoses and close the hood. Start the engine to confirm it runs smoothly and there are no unfiltered air leaks.
Replacing the engine air filter is typically straightforward and can be done in about 5–10 minutes with basic hand tools.
Cabin air filter location and replacement
What you’ll need
Replacement cabin air filter (standard or activated carbon if you want odor reduction), and a flashlight can help to see inside the filter housing behind the glove box.
- Open the glove box and look for the glove box stops or dampers on the sides. Gently press in or squeeze them to allow the glove box to drop down.
- Behind the glove box, locate the cabin air filter access panel. It is a rectangular door or cover that you can slide or unclip to access the filter.
- Remove the filter cover and take out the old cabin filter. Note the orientation of the old filter for reference.
- Clean any dust or debris from the housing area with a clean cloth.
- Insert the new cabin filter with the airflow arrows pointing in the correct direction (usually toward the rear of the vehicle). Ensure the filter sits flat in the housing.
- Replace the cover, reassemble the glove box by snapping it back into place, and return any dampers to their original position.
- Close the glove box and run the climate system briefly to verify airflow is consistent and unobstructed.
Cabin filter replacement improves HVAC performance and can help reduce dust and allergens inside the car.
Summary
For a 2010 Honda Accord, there are two filters to consider: the engine air filter in the engine bay’s passenger-side rectangular housing, and the cabin air filter behind the glove box. Both are accessible with basic tools and can be replaced in under 15 minutes. Regular replacement, as indicated by the vehicle’s maintenance schedule or when you notice reduced airflow or unusual odors, helps maintain engine efficiency and cabin comfort.