There are two air filters in a Honda HR-V: the engine air filter sits in the engine’s intake box in the engine bay, while the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box. This guide explains both locations and how to replace them.
Engine air filter location
The engine air filter in the HR-V is housed in a rectangular black plastic box mounted in the engine compartment on the passenger side. It connects to the intake duct and is usually secured with clips or a small number of screws.
What it looks like and how it’s secured
The filter lives inside a lid-covered box. The lid is held in place by plastic clips or a few screws; the intake hose attaches to the box. The filter element is pleated paper (or similar material) and sits flat inside the box.
Steps to replace the engine air filter
Follow these steps to 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 and release the clips or remove the screws securing the lid.
- Lift off the lid and remove the old filter. Take a quick look inside the housing for debris or leaves.
- Wipe the inside of the housing clean if needed, taking care not to damage any components.
- Install the new filter in the same orientation as the old one (note any arrows indicating airflow).
- Reattach the lid and secure the clips or screws firmly. Close the hood.
After replacement, ensure the housing is sealed properly and there are no loose parts before restarting the engine.
Cabin air filter location
The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box. Access typically requires lowering or removing the glove box (or its damper) to reach a filter housing hidden behind it. The cabin filter purifies air entering the HVAC system for the vehicle interior.
Access and what to expect
Depending on year and trim, you may need to squeeze the sides of the glove box or unclip a damper to drop the box down enough to reveal the filter housing. The filter itself is a pleated panel that fits into a rectangular slot behind the glove box.
Before beginning the cabin filter replacement, ensure the HVAC is off and have a clean workspace ready to avoid misplacing screws or clips.
Follow these steps to replace the cabin air filter:
- Turn off the HVAC system and empty the glove box.
- Release the glove box stops or damper to lower the box and expose the filter housing behind it.
- Remove the filter cover or panel by unclipping or unscrewing it.
- Take out the old cabin filter and inspect the surrounding area for debris.
- Insert the new cabin filter with the correct orientation (airflow arrows typically point away from you and into the HVAC system).
- Reattach the cover and reassemble the glove box, ensuring it latches securely.
With the cabin filter replaced, verify that the glove box is fully secured and that the HVAC system operates smoothly with no unusual noises.
Maintenance tips and replacement intervals
To keep both systems performing well, follow these guidelines and consult your owner’s manual for year-specific recommendations. In general, engine air filters are inspected or replaced roughly every 12,000–30,000 miles (or as driving conditions demand), while cabin air filters are typically replaced every 15,000–25,000 miles. In dusty or urban environments, more frequent checks are advised. If you notice reduced airflow, bad odors, or increased dust inside the cabin, inspect and replace sooner.
Summary
In the Honda HR-V, the engine air filter sits in a rectangular housing in the engine bay on the passenger side, while the cabin air filter is behind the glove box. Both are user-serviceable with basic tools, and regular replacement helps maintain engine performance and interior air quality. Always verify the steps against your specific model year if you’re unsure, and consult the owner’s manual for exact locations and filter part numbers.