There are two air filters in a Honda HR-V: the engine air filter located in the engine bay, and the cabin air filter located behind the glove box inside the passenger compartment. Access and replacement steps vary by filter type and model year.
Engine air filter: location and access
The engine air filter sits inside a rectangular plastic housing in the engine bay, typically on the passenger side next to the shock tower and connected to the intake hose. The housing is secured with clips or small screws; lifting or removing the lid reveals the filter.
Generational context
Notes on generations: In most HR-V models from the 2015–2024 range, the housing is reachable from above the engine. The exact fasteners and orientation may vary by trim, so consult the owner's manual for your specific year.
Steps to replace the engine air filter:
- With the hood open, locate the air filter housing and disconnect any hoses if required by your model.
- Release the clips or remove the screws securing the lid, then lift the lid off.
- Remove the old filter, taking care not to drop debris into the housing.
- If the inside of the box is dirty, wipe it clean and check that the rubber seal is in good condition.
- Insert the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing toward the engine, ensuring it sits flat.
- Reattach the lid and secure all clips or screws, then reconnect any hoses if removed.
Regular replacement is typically every 15,000–30,000 miles under normal driving, but dusty or harsh conditions may require more frequent changes. Always check the owner's manual for the exact interval for your model year.
Cabin air filter: location and access
The cabin air filter cleans air entering the passenger area through the HVAC system. In most HR-V models, it is located behind the glove box on the passenger side under the dash. Accessing it usually requires removing or lowering the glove box panel to reach the filter housing.
Access details by model
In many HR-V years, you’ll need to open the glove box, detach the glove box damper (if present), and press in the sides of the glove box to release it from the stops, allowing it to drop down and expose the filter housing.
Steps to replace the cabin air filter:
- Carefully open the glove box and release any stops or dampers to allow it to swing down fully.
- Locate the cabin filter door or cover on the side of the HVAC unit and unclip or unfasten it.
- Remove the old filter and wipe away any accumulated debris.
- Insert the new filter with arrows pointing toward the HVAC system, and ensure it sits evenly in the housing.
- Replace the filter cover, snap the glove box back into place, and close the glove box.
Cabin filter replacement is typically recommended every 12–15 months or 15,000 miles, with more frequent changes in dusty environments or areas with heavy pollution. Check your owner's manual for the exact interval for your HR-V generation.
Summary
In a Honda HR-V, you’ll find two separate filters: the engine air filter in the engine bay and the cabin air filter behind the glove box. The engine filter is accessed by removing the housing’s lid on the passenger side of the engine bay, while the cabin filter requires lowering the glove box to reach the HVAC housing. Replacement intervals vary by environment but are commonly around 15,000–30,000 miles for the engine filter and 12–15 months or 15,000 miles for the cabin filter. Always verify with your vehicle’s owner's manual for your specific generation and trim.