The engine air filter is located in the air filter housing in the engine bay on the passenger side, while the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side of the dash.
Engine air filter location
To locate and replace the engine air filter, follow these steps. The engine air filter supplies clean air to the intake, so keeping it clean helps performance and fuel economy.
- Open the hood and locate the large black plastic air filter housing on the passenger side of the engine bay near the front.
- Unclip or unscrew the housing cover; some models use a few clips; release them and lift the cover off.
- Remove the old filter element and note its orientation.
- Inspect the housing for debris and wipe it clean if needed.
- Insert a new filter with the arrows pointing toward the engine to ensure proper airflow.
- Reinstall the housing cover and secure clips or screws, reconnecting any hoses if they were disturbed.
- Close the hood and start the engine to confirm there are no leaks or unusual sounds.
Replacing the engine air filter is a simple maintenance task; consult your owner's manual for the exact interval, but it is commonly recommended around 30,000 miles, with more frequent changes in dusty or harsh conditions.
Cabin air filter location
To access the cabin air filter, follow these steps. The cabin filter cleans the air entering the passenger compartment through the HVAC system, helping improve interior air quality.
- Open the glove box on the passenger side of the dash and remove contents.
- Gently press in on the sides of the glove box to release the stops and lower the box to reveal the cabin filter housing behind it.
- Remove the filter cover from the housing, then slide the old cabin filter out, noting the orientation of the arrows printed on the filter.
- Install a new cabin air filter with arrows pointing toward the back of the vehicle, then reseal the housing.
- Reconnect the glove box by lifting it back into place and reattaching any damper or clips.
- Close the glove box and run the HVAC system briefly to ensure proper airflow.
Regular cabin air filter replacement improves interior air quality and HVAC performance; typically recommended every 15,000 to 25,000 miles or about once per year, depending on use and environment. Always refer to the owner's manual for the exact interval.
Summary
For a 2015 Honda Pilot, the engine air filter lives in the engine bay air filter housing on the passenger side, and the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box on the dash. Both filters are accessible to most DIY enthusiasts with basic tools, and replacing them at recommended intervals helps maintain engine efficiency and interior air quality. Follow the steps outlined above and consult the owner's manual for your vehicle’s specific guidance.