The 2012 Honda CR-V has two air filters: the engine air filter located in the engine bay in the air intake housing, and the cabin air filter located behind the glove box on the passenger side.
Understanding their locations helps you perform routine maintenance more quickly. Below are concise guides for finding and replacing both filters, along with practical tips to keep them functioning properly.
Engine air filter location
The engine air filter is housed in a rectangular black plastic box in the engine bay, connected to the intake hose. It sits toward the front of the engine compartment and is secured with clips or screws. Accessing it requires removing the lid of the housing and pulling the filter out, then placing a new filter in the same orientation.
Before you start, gather a flat-head screwdriver or panel tool if your clips require prying, and have a replacement filter ready. Always ensure the vehicle is off and cool before beginning.
Here are the steps to replace the engine air filter on a 2012 CR-V:
- Park the vehicle on a flat surface and set the parking brake; turn off the engine.
- Locate the engine air filter housing in the engine bay, connected to the intake hose.
- Release the clips or screws holding the lid and lift the lid to access the filter.
- Remove the old filter and inspect the housing for debris or congestion.
- Insert the new filter in the same orientation as the old one, ensuring a snug fit around the edges.
- Replace the housing lid and secure the clips or screws firmly.
- Reattach any hoses or clamps that were removed and start the engine to verify smooth operation.
Replacing the engine air filter helps maintain optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Dispose of the old filter properly and wipe away any dust from the housing before reinstalling.
Cabin air filter location
The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side. To access it, you typically need to open the glove box, release the dampers or stops, and lower the box to reveal the filter cover. Remove the cover, take out the old filter, and install a new one with the correct orientation.
Before you begin, clear the contents of the glove box and have a flashlight handy to see the filter housing behind the box.
Here are the steps to replace the cabin air filter on a 2012 CR-V:
- Turn off the vehicle and locate the glove box on the passenger side.
- Support and gently open the glove box; release the damper if present so the box can drop down.
- Look for the filter access panel behind the glove box and remove the cover.
- Carefully remove the old cabin air filter and note the airflow direction marked on the filter.
- Insert the new filter with the arrows pointing in the correct direction (toward the cabin) and reseat the cover.
- Close the glove box and reattach the damper if you removed it; ensure the box closes smoothly.
After replacing the cabin air filter, you may notice improved airflow and reduced odors inside the cabin. If your vehicle has an electronic cabin air filter indicator, reset it according to the owner’s manual.
Summary
In short, the 2012 Honda CR-V uses two filters: the engine air filter in the engine bay’s air intake housing and the cabin air filter behind the passenger-side glove box. Replacement is a straightforward DIY task with basic tools, and keeping both filters clean helps maintain engine performance and interior air quality. Always consult the owner's manual for any model-specific nuances or intervals, and dispose of old filters responsibly.