The air filter on a Honda Accord is located inside a rectangular plastic housing in the engine compartment, typically along the intake path near the throttle body.
Exact location can vary by model year and engine, but you’ll usually find a black box secured with clips or screws, connected to a large intake hose that leads from the grille area toward the engine. If you’re unsure, consult the owner’s manual or locate the air intake hose—the box at its end is the air-filter housing.
Identifying the air filter housing in different generations
The housing is a black plastic box with a removable lid. It is attached to a large intake hose that funnels air from the grille area toward the engine. Look for a box secured with clips, or sometimes screws, that can be opened to reveal the filter element.
- Driver-side (left) engine bay locations are common, especially near the strut tower, where the intake hose runs toward the throttle body.
- Passenger-side (right) engine bay locations also appear in some generations, often near the wheel well or fender area with the intake tube feeding from the grille.
- Front-center positions exist on older models or certain trims, where the intake hose travels from the front toward the engine.
- In all cases, the housing lid will be secured by clips or screws; look for markings indicating the air filter and lid orientation.
These cues help you spot the air-filter housing quickly. If you don’t see the box in the spots above, scan the engine bay for a rectangular plastic box connected to a large intake hose.
How to replace the air filter
The replacement process is straightforward and a common maintenance task. Follow these steps to replace the air filter accurately and safely.
- Park on a flat surface, engine off, and apply the parking brake. For added safety, you can disconnect the negative battery terminal on newer models.
- Locate and open the air filter housing by releasing the clips or removing the screws that secure the lid, then lift the lid away from the box.
- Remove the old air filter, noting its orientation (usually with the filter’s arrow pointing toward the engine).
- Inspect the housing for debris; wipe it clean if needed to ensure a good seal for the new filter.
- Insert the new filter into the housing in the correct orientation, reseal the lid, and secure the clips or screws firmly.
- Reattach any hoses, ensure the intake tube fits properly, start the engine, and check for smooth operation.
With the filter properly seated and the housing securely closed, you’ll maintain proper airflow, fuel efficiency, and engine longevity.
Summary
In most Honda Accords, the air filter sits inside a rectangular air-filter housing in the engine compartment, along the intake path near the throttle body. The exact spot can vary by year and engine, but the housing is typically a black plastic box with a large hose attached and secured by clips or screws. Replacing the filter is quick: locate the housing, open it, swap in a correctly oriented filter, and reseal the box.