The 2016 CR-V uses two air filters: the engine air filter sits in the engine compartment’s intake housing, and the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. Both are accessible for replacement with basic tools.
This article explains the exact locations, how to access them, and simple steps to replace each filter, along with tips to keep them in good condition for this model year.
Engine air filter location
To help you locate and replace the engine air filter, here are the key details and steps.
- Open the hood and locate the rectangular black plastic air intake box in the engine bay, typically toward the front on the passenger side.
- Release the clips or screws securing the lid of the air box, then lift the lid to expose the filter.
- Remove the old filter and check the inside of the box for debris or leaves; wipe clean if needed.
- Insert the new filter in the same orientation as the old one, ensuring it sits flat and the seal is intact.
- Reattach the lid and secure the clips or screws, then close the hood and run the engine briefly to confirm proper operation.
Replacing the engine air filter helps maintain proper air flow to the engine and can improve performance and fuel efficiency.
Cabin air filter location
The cabin air filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side; access typically requires lowering or removing the glove box door to reach the filter housing.
Follow these steps to access and replace the cabin air filter in a 2016 CR-V.
- Open the glove box and carefully push in the sides or release the stops to allow it to drop down or hinge downward.
- Find the cabin filter housing cover on the side of the glove box; release the clips or remove the screws holding the cover.
- Remove the old filter and inspect the housing for debris or moisture; wipe if necessary.
- Install the new filter with the airflow arrows oriented toward the back of the vehicle, then reseal the housing and reattach the cover.
- Close the glove box and restore it to its normal position.
Replacing the cabin air filter improves interior air quality and helps maintain the efficiency of the heating and air conditioning system.
Maintenance notes and quick guidance
For reference, engine air filters typically need replacement every 15,000–30,000 miles depending on driving conditions, while cabin air filters often require replacement every 15,000–20,000 miles or about once a year. Always consult the owner’s manual or a Honda dealer for the exact intervals based on your driving environment.
Summary
In a 2016 Honda CR-V, the engine air filter is housed in a rectangular plastic box in the engine bay, usually on the passenger side, and the cabin air filter is located behind the passenger-side glove box. Both are designed for straightforward access and replacement, helping to maintain engine performance and interior air quality.