The oil filter on a 2017 Honda Civic is not a visible spin-on filter; it sits inside a cartridge inside a housing mounted to the side of the engine block near the oil pan and is usually accessed from underneath once the front underbody shield is removed. The exact spot can vary slightly depending on whether your Civic has the 1.5L turbo or the 2.0L engine, so check your manual for your specific configuration.
For a DIY oil change, it helps to know that Honda uses a cartridge-type filter in a side-mounted housing. Access typically requires lifting the front of the car and removing the undertray or splash shields to reach the filter housing cap. The following guide outlines where to look and how to approach replacement across common 2017 Civic engines.
Where to look by engine type
1.5-liter turbo engine
In Civics equipped with the 1.5L turbo engine, the oil filter is a cartridge inside a metal housing that sits on the side of the engine block, generally toward the passenger side and just above the oil pan. You’ll access it from underneath the car after removing the front underbody shield. The cartridge inside the housing is what you replace, and you’ll also replace the O-ring on the housing.
Tools and context for locating this filter are discussed in the list that follows, which covers what you’ll typically need for replacement and access.
Conclusion: The 1.5L turbo filter lives in a side-mounted cartridge housing and is not visible from above; you’ll reach it from beneath after removing the lower shield.
What you’ll typically find in this configuration is a cartridge-style oil filter housed in a round or cylindrical canister with a removable cap near the engine’s side, close to the oil pan.
- Cartridge-style oil filter inside a metal housing on the side of the engine block (often along the passenger side, near the oil pan).
- Housing cap or top that unscrews to reveal and replace the cartridge.
- Front underbody shield or splash guard removal to access the housing from underneath.
If you’re working on a 1.5L Civic, verify the exact housing location in your owner's manual or service guide for your trim level, as there can be slight variations.
2.0-liter engine
For Civics with the 2.0L engine, the oil filter is also cartridge-based inside a housing mounted to the side of the engine block near the oil pan. Access is typically from underneath, with the front undertray or shield removed. The filter inside the housing is replaced when you service the oil filter.
Tools and context for this engine variant are similar to the 1.5L turbo, though the precise housing position can shift slightly by model year or trim.
Conclusion: The 2.0L engine uses a cartridge-style filter in a side-mounted housing that you reach from underneath after removing the lower shield, just as with the turbo model.
- Cartridge-style oil filter inside a side-mounted housing near the oil pan.
- Housing cap or element that must be unscrewed to replace the cartridge.
- Underbody shield/splash shield removal may be required for access.
What you’ll need and what to do before you start
Having the right tools and parts on hand makes the job smoother. The following list summarizes common supplies and gear for replacing the Civic’s oil filter cartridge in either engine variant.
Before you begin, gather the items below to ensure you can access and replace the cartridge without repeated trips to the parts shelf.
- New cartridge-style oil filter compatible with your Civic’s engine (OEM or equivalent).
- New O-ring for the housing seal.
- Appropriate engine oil for your model and filter type.
- Oil drain pan, rags, and a funnel for refilling.
- Basic hand tools (socket/wrench set) and, if available, a torque wrench to follow any housing cap torque recommendations.
- Jack and jack stands or a reliable lift to safely raise the front of the car, plus a screwdriver or pry tool if needed to remove shields.
Conclusion: With the right cartridge, O-ring, and basic shop tools, you can access and replace the Civic’s oil filter housing cartridge on either engine variant.
Step-by-step overview for locating and replacing the cartridge filter
Note: The exact steps can vary slightly by trim and engine, but the general process is similar. Start with safety, then access the housing from underneath, replace the cartridge, and finish with a proper oil refill and leak check.
- Park the car on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and raise the front of the vehicle with a jack. Support with jack stands.
- Remove the front underbody shield or splash guards to reveal the engine area and the filter housing.
- Locate the side-mounted cartridge filter housing on the engine block near the oil pan. Place a drain pan under the area to catch any residual oil.
- Unbolt or unscrew the housing cap to expose the old cartridge. Carefully remove the cartridge and any old seal.
- Install the new cartridge and the new O-ring on the housing. Reinstall the housing cap and tighten to the specified torque if provided (or snug securely).
- Reattach any shields, lower the vehicle, and refill the engine with the manufacturer-recommended oil to the proper level. Check for leaks after starting the engine.
Conclusion: Following these steps should yield a successful cartridge filter replacement while keeping oil clean and engine protected. If you’re unsure of the service locations or torque specs, consult the owner’s manual or a professional technician.
Summary
On a 2017 Honda Civic, the oil filter is a cartridge inside a side-mounted housing near the engine block and oil pan, not a visible spin-on filter. The location is similar across the 1.5L turbo and 2.0L engines, though exact positioning and access can vary by trim. Always verify with the owner’s manual or service guide for your specific model, and prepare with the right cartridge filter, O-ring, and basic tools. If in doubt, seek professional assistance to ensure proper installation and leak-free operation.