The air filter is located inside a rectangular black plastic housing in the engine bay, typically on the driver’s side, and you access it by releasing the housing lid's clips or screws.
This guide explains where to look, how to identify the air box, and how to replace the filter in a 2023 Honda Accord. It covers common layouts for both engine options and what to do if you can’t spot the housing right away.
Location in the engine bay
The air filter housing is a rectangular plastic box connected to a large intake tube that runs toward the front of the car. It is usually found on the driver’s side of the engine bay (left side when facing the car) though some markets and trims may place components slightly differently. The air box sits along the intake path and will have a removable lid held on by clips or small fasteners.
Notes on layout variations
Depending on the market, trim level, or engine variant, the air box may sit slightly offset or near a fuse box or coolant reservoir. If you can’t see a clear rectangular box, follow the thick plastic intake tube from the front grille toward the engine; the end you reach is typically the air filter housing.
Below are practical steps to locate the air filter housing and confirm you’re looking at the right component.
Before starting the following steps, ensure the vehicle is off and the hood is secure.
- Open the hood and visually scan the engine bay for a large rectangular plastic box with a hose attached to it.
- Trace the biggest intake hose from the front of the car toward the engine; the other end should connect to the rectangular air box.
- Identify the lid on the box — it will be secured with clips or screws and labeled as the air filter housing in most cases.
- Once opened, you should see the air filter sitting inside the box, with the airflow arrow on the filter indicating orientation.
In short, the air filter housing is the rectangular box at the end of the main intake tube in the engine bay, most commonly on the driver’s side, and it’s accessed by releasing its clips or screws.
Replacing the air filter
Replacing the air filter is a straightforward maintenance task that Honda recommends be done at the intervals listed in the owner's manual or service schedule. The steps below describe a typical replacement process for the 2023 Accord.
Before starting the replacement, gather the tools you’ll need (usually just your hands; a small screwdriver may help on some models) and ensure you have the correct replacement filter.
- With the hood open, locate the air filter box and release the clips or remove the screws holding the lid in place. Set the lid aside.
- Remove the old filter from the box and inspect the inside of the housing for debris or dust. If you see dirt, wipe the box clean with a dry cloth or use a damp cloth if necessary (make sure it is completely dry before reinserting the filter).
- Place the new filter into the housing with the airflow arrow pointing toward the engine, ensuring it sits flat and seals the edges.
- Reattach the lid and secure all clips or screws firmly. Close the hood and dispose of the old filter properly.
After replacing the filter, you should be ready to resume normal driving. Regular replacement helps maintain engine efficiency and fuel economy, especially in dusty or urban environments.
Maintenance tips
Check the air filter during routine oil changes or at least every 15,000–30,000 miles depending on driving conditions. In dusty areas or heavy traffic, inspect more frequently and replace sooner. Always refer to the owner’s manual for the exact interval recommended for your vehicle and region.
Summary
For a 2023 Honda Accord, the air filter is housed in a rectangular black plastic box in the engine bay, most often on the driver’s side. You locate it by following the large intake tube from the front of the car to the box, then unclip or unscrew the lid to replace the filter. Regular inspection and replacement keep the engine running smoothly and help preserve fuel efficiency.