The air filters on a 2021 Honda CR-V are located in two places: the engine air filter lives in the engine bay inside a black plastic housing, and the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box on the passenger side of the dash. Both are accessible with basic tools and a little patience.
In this guide, we explain exactly where to find each filter, how to open the housings, and what to look for when replacing them. We also outline general maintenance intervals to keep your CR-V breathing clean air and running efficiently.
Engine air filter location
To access the engine air filter, start with the hood up and locate the large black plastic air filter housing in the engine bay. It is connected to the intake duct and is typically secured with clips or screws. Opening the housing reveals the rectangular engine air filter element inside.
- Raise the hood and locate the engine air filter housing near the front/center of the engine bay, attached to the intake duct.
- Release the clips or screws holding the housing cover and lift the cover off.
- Remove the old filter, noting its orientation and ensuring you don’t drop debris into the duct.
- Clean out any dirt or debris from the housing with a clean cloth or compressed air if available.
- Insert the new filter in the same orientation as the old one, making sure it sits flat and seals properly.
- Reinstall the housing cover and secure the clips or screws firmly.
- Close the hood and start the engine to verify smooth operation and no unusual noises.
Replacing the engine air filter helps maintain optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. Use an OEM or manufacturer-approved filter for best fit and filtration.
Cabin air filter location
The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box on the passenger side interior. Accessing it requires lowering the glove box to reveal a rectangular panel or cover that conceals the filter.
- With the glove box, empty it and gently support it as you prepare to lower it.
- Squeeze the sides of the glove box to disengage the dampers and allow it to drop down, revealing the cabin filter access area.
- Remove the cabin air filter cover or panel that sits behind the glove box.
- Carefully pull out the old filter, taking note of the orientation indicated by arrows on the filter.
- Clean the area around the filter slot if needed, then insert the new filter with the correct orientation.
- Reattach the cover/panel and close the glove box, ensuring it clicks back into place.
- Run the HVAC briefly to ensure air is flowing through the new filter correctly.
The cabin air filter protects the interior from dust, pollen, and odors. Replacing it at the recommended intervals helps maintain cabin air quality and HVAC performance.
Maintenance guidance
Honda typically recommends checking and replacing the engine air filter roughly every 30,000 miles (about 48,000 km) or as the maintenance minder indicates, whichever comes first. Cabin air filters are commonly suggested for replacement about every 15,000 miles (roughly 24,000 km) or once per year, with more frequent changes in dusty or heavily polluted environments. Always confirm with your owner’s manual or the vehicle’s maintenance minder tool for the exact schedule on your specific car and region.
If you drive in dusty conditions, live in an area with heavy pollution, or have allergy concerns, plan for more frequent inspections and replacements. Keeping both filters fresh helps engine efficiency and interior air quality.
Summary
In the 2021 Honda CR-V, engine air filters live in the engine bay’s intake housing, while cabin air filters sit behind the glove box on the passenger side. Access each with straightforward steps: remove the cover, replace the old filter with a correctly oriented new one, and reassemble. Check your owner’s manual or maintenance minder for exact replacement intervals, and adjust based on driving conditions to keep your CR-V performing cleanly and efficiently.