In a 2018 HR-V, the engine air filter sits in a rectangular housing in the engine bay on the driver's side, while the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. This article explains how to locate and access both filters.
Engine air filter location
Follow these steps to locate and access the engine air filter in the HR-V’s engine bay.
- Open the hood and locate the engine air filter housing. It is a large rectangular black plastic box toward the front/driver’s side of the engine bay, connected to a wide intake duct.
- Release the fasteners securing the lid. Depending on the trim, these may be pinch-type clips on the sides or small screws; disengage or remove them.
- Lift the lid to reveal the filter element inside the housing.
- Remove the old filter, noting its orientation and the direction of the airflow (look for arrows on the filter frame).
- Insert a new filter in the same orientation, ensuring it sits flat and fully seated in the housing.
- Reattach the lid and secure the fasteners, making sure there are no gaps.
- Close the hood and start the engine to confirm everything is seated properly and there are no rattles.
Replacing the engine air filter is a routine maintenance task that helps maintain engine performance and efficiency when performed correctly.
Cabin air filter location
In addition to the engine air filter, the HR-V has a cabin air filter that cleans the air entering the interior via the HVAC system. It is accessed from inside the vehicle, behind the glove box.
- Park the car and turn off the ignition. Empty the glove box to prevent it from falling out of position.
- On most trims, gently squeeze the sides of the glove box to release the stops or remove the damper, then lower the glove box to access the area behind it.
- Look for a rectangular cabin air filter housing behind the glove box. Remove the screws or release clips holding the access panel in place.
- Remove the old cabin filter, noting the correct orientation indicated by arrows on the filter.
- Insert a new cabin filter with the arrows pointing in the proper direction (typically toward the back of the vehicle).
- Reinstall the access panel, raise the glove box, and ensure it locks back into place.
- Run the HVAC system briefly to confirm air flow from all vents and that there are no unusual odors.
Regular replacement of the cabin air filter helps maintain interior air quality and HVAC performance, especially in dusty or high-pollen environments.
Summary
The 2018 Honda HR-V keeps two separate air filters: the engine air filter in a rectangular box in the engine bay on the driver’s side, and the cabin air filter behind the glove box on the passenger side. Both are accessible with common hand tools and can be replaced by a cautious DIYer following the steps outlined above. Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific details and replacement intervals.