The engine air filter sits in a rectangular plastic housing in the engine bay on the passenger side, connected to the intake hose. The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side of the interior.
Understanding these two filters—the engine air filter and the cabin air filter—helps with routine maintenance, performance, and interior air quality. This guide explains where to find each filter and how to replace them.
Engine air filter: location and replacement
Follow these steps to locate and replace the engine air filter:
- Park on level ground, turn off the engine, and open the hood.
- Locate the engine air filter housing on the passenger side of the engine bay. It is a rectangular black plastic box with clips or screws on the top.
- Unclip the latches or remove the screws securing the lid, then lift the cover to access the filter.
- Remove the old filter and inspect the inside of the housing for debris or dirt.
- Insert the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing toward the engine (into the throttle body side).
- Reinstall the housing lid and secure the clips or bolts firmly.
- Close the hood and start the engine to ensure proper operation.
Replacing the engine air filter at the recommended intervals helps maintain engine performance and fuel efficiency, and it’s a quick DIY task for many drivers.
Cabin air filter: location and replacement
Follow these steps to locate and replace the cabin air filter:
- Park on level ground, turn off the engine, and open the glove box.
- Remove contents and gently release the stops or screws that limit the glove box’s movement, depending on trim level.
- Lower the glove box panel to reveal the cabin air filter housing behind it.
- Unlatch or unscrew the cover of the cabin filter housing and remove the old filter.
- Inspect the area for debris or leaves, then insert the new filter with the arrows pointing toward the blower motor.
- Reattach the filter cover and resecure the glove box by re-engaging the stops or screws.
- Close the glove box and run the fan briefly to verify airflow.
Regular cabin air filter replacement improves interior air quality and HVAC performance, especially for drivers with allergies or in dusty environments.
Summary
For a 2017 Honda Pilot, the engine air filter lives in a rectangular housing in the engine bay on the passenger side, while the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side. Both filters are user-serviceable and replacing them at recommended intervals helps maintain engine efficiency and interior air quality.