The oil filter on a 2020 Honda CR-V is located on the underside of the engine, toward the front-right corner of the engine bay (passenger side in US-spec cars), accessible from beneath once the underbody shield is removed. It uses a cartridge-style filter housed in a small housing rather than a traditional spin-on canister.
In the 2020 CR-V, most models use Honda’s Earth Dreams 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The filter sits inside a housing that is mounted to the engine block near the oil pan. Access typically requires working under the vehicle with the front undertray/splash shield removed for clearance.
Location at a glance
These are the key cues to help you spot the oil filter without extensive disassembly.
- Located on the bottom side of the engine, toward the front-right (passenger) side of the vehicle.
- Hidden inside a cartridge-style oil filter housing, not a traditional spin-on filter.
- Normally accessed from underneath the car, behind or beneath the front bumper area.
- Often obscured by the front underbody splash shield; removal of the shield may be required for visibility and clearance.
With the shield out of the way, the filter housing is typically visible near the oil pan along the engine’s side.
Access considerations
Before attempting access, ensure the vehicle is safely supported and the engine is cool. Always consult the owner’s manual or a service guide for model-specific clearance and torque specs.
DIY replacement steps (general guidance)
If you’re planning to replace the filter yourself, here are general steps to guide you. Always verify exact procedure and torque values in the official service manual for your vehicle.
- Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. If needed, raise the front of the vehicle and secure it on jack stands to gain access to the undercarriage.
- Remove the front underbody splash shield or belly pan to expose the engine’s lower area and the oil filter housing.
- Place an oil drain pan beneath the oil filter housing. Carefully loosen and remove the housing cap or filter housing to release any trapped oil.
- Remove the old cartridge filter from the housing. Check and replace any seals or O-rings if recommended by the service manual.
- Install the new cartridge filter into the housing, reseal the housing with the cap, and tighten to the specified torque.
- Reinstall the housing cap, wipe away excess oil, and refill the engine with fresh oil to the level specified in the owner’s manual. Start the engine and check for leaks.
Note: Use the OEM-recommended oil filter cartridge for the 2020 CR-V’s 1.5L turbo engine and follow Honda’s torque specs. If in doubt, have a professional perform the change to avoid leaks or damage.
Additional tips and considerations
Always dispose of used oil and the old filter at a proper recycling facility. Keep a record of your maintenance if you plan to sell the vehicle, as oil changes are a routine maintenance item that owners are commonly asked about.
Summary
The 2020 Honda CR-V’s oil filter is located beneath the engine on the front-right side (passenger side in US terminology), inside a cartridge-style housing rather than a spin-on filter. Access typically requires removing the underbody shield to gain clearance. If you’re replacing it yourself, follow careful safety steps, use the correct replacement cartridge, and consult the official service manual for precise instructions and torque values. When in doubt, seek professional service to ensure proper installation and leak-free operation.