How to Change the Cabin Filter in a Honda Pilot

To change the cabin air filter in a Honda Pilot, open the glove box, detach the damper, squeeze the sides to drop the box, release the cabin filter door behind it, slide out the old filter, insert a new one with the airflow arrow oriented correctly (typically downward), then reassemble. The job takes 10–20 minutes and usually requires no tools. Below is a detailed, model-year–aware guide covering Pilots from 2003 to 2025.

What you need

You don’t need much to replace the cabin filter on any generation of Honda Pilot. Most trims use a simple clip-in filter door behind the glove box. The only variable is the exact filter size and whether your glove box damper uses a clip or a small screw.

• Replacement cabin air filter (verify by model year and trim; OEM or equivalent)
• Clean rag or paper towels and a vacuum with a narrow nozzle (optional, for debris)
• Gloves and a dust mask (optional, recommended if the old filter is dirty)
• Small flat tool or Phillips screwdriver (rarely needed for certain dampers or stoppers)

Most owners can complete the change without special tools. If you’re unsure of the filter part number, check the owner’s manual or the parts catalog for your specific year.

Step-by-step instructions (2003–2025, all generations)

These steps apply broadly to all Honda Pilots. Minor variations exist in how the glove box stops and damper release, but the filter sits in the same location: behind the glove box on the passenger side. Make sure the HVAC is off before you begin.

1. Empty the glove box so nothing falls when it drops down.
2. Locate the glove box damper on the right side and gently detach it. On most years it pops off a peg; some early models may use a small screw.
3. Squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to release the side stops and let the glove box swing down. On some models, pull out small plastic stoppers before squeezing.
4. With the glove box lowered, find the rectangular cabin filter access door on the HVAC housing. Release the side tabs to open the door.
5. Pull out the filter tray or the filter itself (depending on year). Note the airflow direction printed on the old filter and/or the housing.
6. Remove the old filter. Use a vacuum to clear leaves or debris from the housing, being careful not to damage the blower wheel.
7. Install the new filter with the airflow arrow aligned to the housing’s arrow. In most Pilots the arrow points downward (air flows top to bottom), but follow the housing marking.
8. Slide the filter or tray fully back into the slot and close the access door until it clicks.
9. Lift the glove box back up, re-engage the side stops, and reattach the damper.
10. Start the vehicle, switch on the fan, and check for normal airflow and noise. If your Maintenance Minder shows the sub-item for the cabin filter, reset it (see instructions below).

If anything feels like it’s binding—especially the glove box sides—pause and verify you’ve released the correct stoppers or tabs. Never force plastic components; they can crack in cold weather.

Year-specific notes and differences

While the basic approach is consistent, a few small differences appear across generations. Here are useful cues to look for as you work on your Pilot.

• 2003–2008 (1st gen): The damper typically pops off a right-side peg; you may need to flex the glove box sides more than on newer models. Filter location and airflow orientation conventions are the same.
• 2009–2015 (2nd gen): Expect plastic side stops that either squeeze in or pull out. The filter door has squeeze tabs; the airflow arrow usually points down.
• 2016–2022 (3rd gen): Side tabs on the glove box release with a gentle squeeze. The filter tray slides straight out; the housing arrow indicates airflow down. These models often trigger Maintenance Minder sub-item 2 for the cabin filter.
• 2023–2025 (4th gen): Similar glove box and filter-door layout with slightly broader access door; tabs release inward. Airflow arrow still typically down. The Maintenance page is accessed via the steering-wheel controls and infotainment menus.

If you encounter an unfamiliar clip or screw on the damper, take a photo before removal so you can match the orientation when reinstalling.

Maintenance Minder reset

After replacing the cabin filter, you may need to reset the Maintenance Minder sub-item that covers cabin and engine air filters (often listed as sub-item 2). The exact menu path varies slightly by year.

2016–2025 (with steering-wheel menu controls)

Most newer Pilots allow you to reset the maintenance item through the instrument cluster and infotainment menus.

1. Turn the ignition on (engine can be off).
2. Use the steering-wheel Home or Menu button to open the main menu, then select Maintenance or Vehicle Settings.
3. Open Maintenance Minder or Oil Life. Choose Maintenance Reset or Select Reset.
4. Select the specific item for Air Filter/Cabin Filter (often sub-item 2), or choose Reset Individual Items if available, then confirm.

If you don’t see individual items, a general maintenance reset may be offered; consult your owner’s manual to ensure only the intended item is reset.

2009–2015 (cluster reset button)

Earlier models typically use the instrument cluster’s SEL/RESET or Trip button to access and reset maintenance items.

1. Turn the ignition on until the dashboard lights up.
2. Press the SEL/RESET or Trip button until the engine oil life/maintenance screen appears.
3. Press and hold the button until the maintenance menu or reset prompt appears.
4. Select the sub-item for the cabin/air filters (often “2”) and confirm reset.

If sub-item selection isn’t available, a full maintenance reset may occur. You can re-enter service data later if needed.

How often to replace

Honda typically recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 12 months or 15,000 miles, whichever comes first. Replace more frequently if you drive in dusty areas, encounter wildfire smoke, or notice symptoms like musty odors, reduced airflow at the same fan speed, or increased fan noise due to debris in the blower.

Tips, upgrades, and mistakes to avoid

Small choices and careful handling can improve air quality and avoid repeat work. Consider these practical tips before you reinstall everything.

• Orientation matters: Always match the airflow arrow to the housing. On most Pilots the arrow points down.
• Don’t crush the pleats: A bent filter reduces surface area and performance.
• Vacuum the housing: Remove leaves and dust so the new filter lasts longer and the blower stays quiet.
• Upgrade options: Activated carbon filters reduce odors; HEPA-style filters can capture finer particulates (check that airflow isn’t overly restricted for your climate).
• Mind the damper: Reattach the glove box damper securely to avoid a slamming glove box.
• Dispose properly: Seal the old filter in a bag—especially if it contains mold or allergens—and recycle the paperboard box.
• Prevent debris: Keep the cowl area at the base of the windshield clear of leaves to slow future clogging.

If odors persist after installing a new filter, consider an HVAC evaporator cleaning foam designed for automotive use, applied per product instructions to avoid damage.

Summary

Changing the cabin filter on a Honda Pilot is a quick, low-cost maintenance task: drop the glove box, open the filter door, swap the filter with the airflow arrow aligned (usually down), and reassemble. Clean the housing while you’re in there and reset the Maintenance Minder if your Pilot displays the service reminder. With basic care and a quality filter, you’ll restore airflow and improve in-cabin air quality in minutes.

What are three symptoms of a clogged cabin air filter?

3 Signs Your Cabin Filter is Clogged

• There’s Little Flow. The cabin filter is, essentially, a component of the air conditioner structure in your car.
• Dust. Another sign is is that you’re seeing more than the usual amount of dust and debris inside your car.
• Less Vehicle Power.

How much does it cost to replace cabin air filter Honda Pilot?

The cost to replace a Honda Pilot cabin air filter typically ranges from $30 to $100, but can vary depending on the year of the vehicle, whether it’s a DIY or professional replacement, and the type of filter used. DIY replacements can cost as little as $15-$30 for the filter itself, while professional replacements at a dealership or mechanic can range from $74 to $134, including labor. 
Factors Affecting Cost:

• Vehicle Year: Older models (like 2003-2008) tend to have lower replacement costs than newer models (2016-2024). 
• DIY vs. Professional: Replacing the filter yourself is significantly cheaper, as you only pay for the filter itself (around $15-$30). 
• Filter Type: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) filters from the dealer may be more expensive than aftermarket options. 
• Labor Costs: Dealerships may charge more for labor than independent mechanics. Some repair shops may charge an hour of labor for the replacement. 
• Additional Services: Some shops may include additional services or diagnostics in the replacement cost, potentially increasing the overall price. 
• Location: Prices can vary based on your geographic location and local labor rates. 

Cost Breakdown Examples:

• 2022 Honda Pilot: . Opens in new tabA replacement at a mechanic, including parts and labor, could cost between $74 and $101, according to RepairPal. 
• 2019 Honda Pilot: . Opens in new tabA similar replacement at a shop or dealer could range from $197.70 to $229.00, according to YourMechanic. 
• DIY: . Opens in new tabReplacing the filter yourself could cost as little as $15.95 for the filter and 5-10 minutes of your time, according to a Reddit thread. 

Recommendations:

• Check your owner’s manual: for the recommended filter type and replacement schedule. 
• Compare prices: from different sources (dealership, independent mechanic, auto parts stores). 
• Consider doing it yourself: for significant cost savings, especially if you’re comfortable with basic car maintenance. 
• Look for specials or coupons: from your local dealership or auto parts store. 

How do I change the cabin filter on a Honda Pilot?

That’s a reusable filter. It’s $38. Again I’ll put links in the description. Or if you’re just lazy you can go to Walmart. But you know anymore Walmart’s prices are nowhere near as good as Amazon’s.

How often should I change the cabin air filter on my Honda Pilot?

every 15,000 miles
It’s usually time for a Honda air filter replacement every 15,000 miles. However, you might need to change it more often if you live in an area with poor air quality or are often around construction sites.