How Many Cabin Air Filters Does a Honda Pilot Have?

Most Honda Pilot models use one cabin air filter; however, the first-generation Pilot (model years 2003–2008) uses a two-piece filter element that installs as a pair in a single filter slot. In practical terms, every Pilot has one cabin air filter system behind the glove box, but the earliest models are serviced with two panels that together perform the job of one filter.

What Owners Should Know

Cabin air filters trap dust, pollen, soot, and odors before air reaches the interior. In the Honda Pilot, the filter assembly is located behind the glove box and is designed for quick, tool-light replacement. The exact “count” varies by generation only in how the element is packaged, not in how many filter slots the vehicle has.

Filter Count by Model Year

The following breakdown clarifies how many filter pieces you’ll replace depending on the generation of the Honda Pilot. This helps when ordering parts or planning a DIY service.

2003–2008 (1st generation): Two-piece element (you replace two small panels that together form one cabin filter assembly).

2009–2015 (2nd generation): One single-piece cabin air filter.

2016–2022 (3rd generation): One single-piece cabin air filter.

2023–2025 (4th generation): One single-piece cabin air filter.

Functionally, all Pilots have one cabin filter location. Only the 2003–2008 models use a two-panel design, which many parts listings describe as a “set of two.”

Location and Replacement Basics

The cabin air filter is positioned behind the glove box on all generations. Access typically involves lowering the glove box, releasing side stops, and sliding out the filter tray. Most owners can complete the swap in 10–15 minutes.

When to Replace

Use these guidelines to decide when the filter needs attention. Driving environment and climate can shorten intervals.

Interval: Every 15,000–30,000 miles or once a year; more often in dusty, urban, or wildfire-prone areas.

Symptoms: Reduced airflow, persistent odors, foggy windows that clear slowly, or visible debris/darkening on the filter.

Upgrades: Charcoal/activated carbon filters help with odors; HEPA-style options capture finer particles.

Following these intervals keeps HVAC performance strong and improves in-cabin air quality, especially for allergy sufferers.

Parts and Cost Expectations

Pricing varies by brand and material, but cabin filters are among the more affordable maintenance items on the Pilot.

Aftermarket filter: About $10–$35 (single-piece) or $15–$40 (two-piece set for 2003–2008).

OEM Honda filter: Typically $30–$60.

Dealer/Shop replacement service: Often $70–$150 including labor; DIY saves most of that cost.

For best fit and filtration, many owners choose OEM or reputable aftermarket brands; charcoal or HEPA variants cost slightly more but can be worthwhile in high-pollution areas.

Summary

Every Honda Pilot has one cabin air filter location behind the glove box. Model years 2003–2008 use a two-piece element that’s replaced as a pair, while 2009 and newer Pilots use a single-piece filter. Replace it roughly every 15,000–30,000 miles (or annually) to maintain airflow and cabin air quality.

How many cabin air filters are in a Honda Pilot?

There are two basic air filters in your Honda Pilot.

Are there two cabin air filters?

No, most cars have one cabin air filter, not two. While some vehicles might have two slots for cabin air filters, typically only one is used for the primary filter. The other slot might be used for an optional filter, or in some cases, two filters are used in markets with higher pollution levels. Most cars will have a cabin air filter and an engine air filter.
This video explains how to choose and install a cabin air filter: 56sHealthy Home GuideYouTube · Mar 28, 2023
Here’s a breakdown:

Engine Air Filter: This filter cleans the air entering the engine, ensuring clean combustion.
Cabin Air Filter: This filter cleans the air entering the passenger compartment, typically located behind the glove box.
Optional or Dual-Slot Filters: Some vehicles have two slots for cabin air filters, but often only one is used. In some cases, a secondary filter (like a HEPA or activated carbon filter) might be used in the second slot for enhanced filtration, especially in areas with high pollution.

What is the most common problem with the Honda Pilot?

Common problems for the Honda Pilot include issues with the transmission (especially in certain model years), excessive oil consumption, engine noises, and peeling paint. Other frequent complaints involve the electrical system (such as sensor malfunctions and infotainment screen issues), brake system problems (like warped rotors and phantom braking), and concerns with steering and suspension components.
Transmission Issues

Major transmission failures: are a significant problem for some Pilot models, particularly in older versions.
Symptoms can include jerking, unexpected changes in speed, and complete vehicle failure.
Specific model years have been more prone to transmission problems.

Engine & Oil Problems

Some Pilots experience excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed.
Owners have reported various engine noises, which could point to underlying issues like differential fluid breakdown or worn suspension components.

Electrical & Sensor Issues

The electrical system is a frequent source of complaints, with issues like:
- Infotainment screens freezing or going black.
- Malfunctioning sensors, especially those in the forward collision avoidance system, causing unexpected braking.
- Problems with the auto start-stop system, which can lead to vehicle disablement.
- Recalls related to rearview camera malfunctions in some models.

Braking & Suspension Problems

Warped front brake rotors: are a common issue, causing vibrations when braking.
Steering instability: and knocking noises from the front end can occur due to worn stabilizer links or other suspension issues.

Where is the cabin filter on a Honda Pilot?

And get your new filter which we’ll put a link to the one we purchased down below we got it off of Amazon. And once you get this out make sure you locate the arrow for the airflow.