There are two air filters: the engine air filter resides in the engine-bay air intake housing on the driver's side, and the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side. This article explains both locations and how to replace them, with step-by-step guidance and maintenance tips.
Engine air filter location and replacement
To replace the engine air filter, locate the air box in the engine bay on the driver’s side and follow these steps in order.
- Open the hood and locate the large black rectangular air filter housing on the driver’s side of the engine bay, connected to a thick intake hose.
- Unlatch the lid by releasing the clips or removing any screws holding it in place.
- Lift the lid and remove the old engine air filter, noting the correct orientation (the arrow on the filter should point toward the engine/throttle body).
- Wipe out any debris from inside the housing with a clean rag if needed.
- Insert the new filter, ensuring it sits evenly and the orientation matches the arrow direction toward the engine.
- Reattach the lid and secure the clips or screws, then reconnect the intake hose if it was removed.
- Close the hood and run the engine briefly to check for unusual sounds or leaks.
Engine air filter replacement is typically recommended every 30,000 miles under normal driving; dusty or harsh conditions may require more frequent changes. Always verify the exact interval in your owner's manual.
Cabin air filter location and replacement
To replace the cabin air filter, you access it from the passenger side dash behind the glove box by lowering the glove box and removing the filter cover.
- Open the glove box and gently release its side stoppers to allow the box to drop down or fully fold, giving access to the filter housing behind it.
- Unclip or remove the cabin air filter cover to expose the filter.
- Remove the old cabin air filter, noting the correct orientation of the filter (arrows indicate airflow into the cabin).
- Insert the new filter with the arrows pointing toward the interior of the car, ensuring it sits flat in the housing.
- Replace the cover, re-seat the glove box, and ensure it is securely latched.
Cabin air filter replacement is commonly recommended every 12,000–15,000 miles or about once a year, but check your owner's manual or maintenance minder for the exact interval for your trim and driving conditions.
Tools and safety tips
Having a few basic tools handy will make both filter replacements quicker and safer.
- Flat-head screwdriver or socket driver for any screws
- Clean rag or shop towel
- Replacement engine and cabin filters
- Gloves to protect your hands
Always ensure the engine is off and cool before starting, and be careful around any air intake components to avoid disconnecting hoses or damaging clips.
Summary
In a 2014 Honda Civic, the engine air filter sits in the engine bay’s air intake box on the driver’s side, while the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. Replacements are straightforward with basic tools and can improve engine breathing and interior air quality. Check your owner’s manual for exact replacement intervals and any model-specific variations.