The oil filter on a 2010 Honda Civic is mounted to the side of the engine block in a cartridge-style housing on the passenger-side near the oil pan. It’s usually accessed from underneath the car after removing the front splash shield; some minor variation may exist depending on the engine variant (1.8L vs 2.0L).
Engine variants and the filter location
Honda used similar cartridge-style oil filters across most 2010 Civics, but the exact mounting point can vary slightly by engine. The following outlines the typical locations you’ll encounter.
- 1.8L engine (R18A1): The oil filter is contained in a cartridge within a housing mounted to the side of the engine block on the passenger side, near the front of the engine. Access is generally from below after removing the lower splash shield.
- 2.0L engine (K-series, including some trims): The oil filter is also cartridge-style inside a housing on the side/front of the engine. Access may involve removing a protective shield or reaching from beneath, depending on the exact variant and body configuration.
In all cases, you’re looking for a small round housing on the side of the engine with a removable cap that houses the filter cartridge.
How to locate and replace the oil filter on a 2010 Civic
Use these steps to locate the filter, replace the cartridge, and complete a successful oil change.
- Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and allow the engine to cool slightly. Lift the front of the car and secure it on jack stands. Remove the front splash shield if your model uses one.
- From underneath the vehicle, look for a cylindrical oil filter housing mounted to the engine block on the passenger side near the oil pan. It will usually have a removable cap or cover.
- Carefully loosen and remove the housing cap to expose the filter cartridge. Remove the old cartridge and inspect the cap gasket or O-ring; replace as needed.
- Install a new cartridge in the housing, reseal the housing cap, and torque/secure it as specified in the service manual. Wipe away any spilled oil.
- Refill the engine with the recommended oil, check for leaks around the housing, run the engine briefly, and recheck the oil level. Lower the car and dispose of used oil and the old filter properly.
Replacing the oil filter is straightforward once you locate the side-mounted cartridge housing and follow the proper steps to reseal and refill the engine.
What you’ll need
Before you begin, gather the items and tools you’ll use for this job.
- New oil filter cartridge compatible with the 2010 Civic’s engine (1.8L or 2.0L, depending on your model)
- Correct type and amount of engine oil for your vehicle
- New O-ring or gasket for the filter housing cap
- Oil catch pan, funnel, rags, and gloves
- Basic hand tools (socket set, screwdrivers) and a means to safely lift and support the car
Having the right filter, seals, and oil on hand helps ensure a clean, leak-free change and a properly lubricated engine.
Summary
For a 2010 Honda Civic, the oil filter is typically located in a cartridge-style housing on the side of the engine block, near the oil pan, on the passenger side. Access is usually from underneath after removing the lower splash shield, with minor variation depending on whether you have the 1.8L or 2.0L engine. Follow proper safety steps, replace the cartridge and O-ring, and refill with the correct oil to complete the change.