Home » FAQ » Honda » Where is the air filter in a 2019 Honda Odyssey?

Where is the air filter in a 2019 Honda Odyssey?

The 2019 Honda Odyssey has two commonly referenced “air filters.” The engine air filter sits under the hood inside the black air cleaner box on the driver’s side of the engine bay, while the cabin air (pollen) filter is located behind the glove box inside the HVAC housing. Below are precise locations and quick access steps for both.

Two filters, two locations

Honda uses one filter to clean the air going into the engine and another to clean the air entering the cabin through the climate system. Knowing which one you need helps you go to the right spot first.

  • Engine air filter: Under the hood, inside a black plastic air cleaner housing on the driver’s side, just behind the driver-side headlight and connected to a large intake hose.
  • Cabin air filter: Inside the passenger compartment, behind the glove box, in a rectangular slot on the HVAC blower housing.

If you’re addressing engine performance, fuel economy, or intake noise, you want the engine air filter. If you’re dealing with musty smells or weak airflow from the vents, you want the cabin filter.

Engine air filter: location and access

Where it is

Open the hood and look to the driver’s side, just behind the headlight. You’ll see a rectangular black plastic box (air cleaner housing) with metal clips or screws and a thick intake tube running from it toward the throttle body. The engine air filter sits inside this housing.

How to open the housing

The steps below outline how to access and inspect or replace the engine air filter safely and without disturbing nearby sensors.

  1. Shut off the engine and let it cool. Open the hood and secure it.
  2. Locate the air cleaner housing on the driver’s side behind the headlight; follow the large intake hose to confirm.
  3. Release the fasteners: unclip the metal clips or remove the Phillips/8 mm screws, depending on your trim.
  4. Lift the housing lid slightly (watch the attached wiring for the mass airflow sensor) and slide the old filter straight up and out.
  5. Inspect the air box for leaves or debris and vacuum gently if needed; do not touch the mass airflow sensor.
  6. Insert the new filter in the same orientation as the old one (rubber seal facing the lid, pleats vertical), seat the lid fully, and refasten the clips/screws.

Once reassembled, ensure the lid is fully seated all around. Honda generally recommends inspection at each oil change and replacement roughly every 15,000–30,000 miles (more often in dusty conditions).

Cabin air filter: location and access

Where it is

The cabin air filter sits behind the glove box, inside a rectangular slot on the HVAC blower housing. Access is tool-light and takes only a few minutes.

How to reach it

Use the following steps to access and replace the cabin filter without removing trim panels.

  1. Open the passenger-side glove box and empty it.
  2. On the right side of the glove box, unhook the small damper arm (it slides off its pin).
  3. Gently squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to clear the two plastic stops; let the glove box swing down.
  4. Behind it, find the rectangular cabin filter door on the HVAC housing; press the side tabs to remove the cover.
  5. Pull out the filter tray/cartridge. Note the airflow direction arrow on the old filter (Honda’s airflow arrow points down).
  6. Insert the new filter with the arrow pointing down, slide the tray back in, and reinstall the cover.
  7. Lift the glove box, reengage the side stops, and reattach the damper arm.

After reassembly, check for smooth glove box operation. Replace the cabin filter about every 12,000–15,000 miles or annually, or sooner if airflow drops or odors persist.

Visual cues to confirm you’re in the right spot

If you’re unsure you’re looking at the correct component, use these quick identifiers to confirm before opening anything.

  • Engine air box: Black rectangular plastic housing with spring clips or small screws and a large ribbed intake hose connected; located near the driver’s headlight area.
  • Cabin filter door: Flat rectangular panel with squeeze tabs directly behind the dropped glove box; often labeled with an airflow indicator or filter icon.
  • Filter orientation: Engine filter has a rubber edge seal; cabin filter has airflow arrows that should point down in the Odyssey.

These markers are consistent across 2018–2020 Odyssey models, so your 2019 should match this layout closely.

If your layout looks different

All 2019 Odyssey trims (LX through Elite) share the same 3.5L V6 engine and general component placement. If a previous owner relocated parts, installed aftermarket intake components, or if you’re outside North America with a regional variant, follow the intake hose from the front of the engine bay to find the air box, and use the glove box method for the cabin filter. When in doubt, consult the owner’s manual sections on the “Air Cleaner” and “Cabin Dust and Pollen Filter,” or ask a Honda dealer to confirm your specific layout.

Summary

The 2019 Honda Odyssey’s engine air filter is in the air cleaner housing on the driver’s side of the engine bay behind the headlight; the cabin air filter is behind the glove box on the HVAC housing. Both are easy to access: pop the air box lid for the engine filter, and lower the glove box to reach the cabin filter (airflow arrow down).

Can I replace my engine air filter myself?

Yes, replacing an engine air filter yourself is typically a straightforward process that most people can handle. It usually doesn’t require any special tools and can be done in a few minutes. 
This video shows how easy it is to replace your engine air filter: 50sHonest FinanceYouTube · Sep 6, 2022
Here’s a general guide:

  1. Locate the air filter housing: It’s usually under the hood, in a rectangular box connected to the engine intake. 
  2. Open the housing: This usually involves releasing clips or screws. 
  3. Remove the old filter: Simply slide out the old filter. 
  4. Install the new filter: Slide the new filter into the housing, ensuring it’s oriented correctly. 
  5. Close the housing: Secure the clips or screws. 
  6. Dispose of the old filter properly: Most filters can be recycled. 

This video demonstrates how to locate and open the air filter housing: 1mOpenRoad GroupYouTube · Jul 28, 2023
Important Considerations:

  • Consult your owner’s manual: For specific instructions and filter type for your vehicle. 
  • Consider your driving conditions: If you drive in dusty or dirty areas, you may need to replace the filter more frequently. 
  • Check for signs of wear: If your filter is dirty or clogged, it’s time for a replacement. 

This video explains why and when you should replace your engine air filter: 1mDIY•BRYYouTube · Jul 9, 2025

Where is the engine air filter in a Honda Odyssey?

All you have to do is press down against the pins. And you’ll hear a click. Now you can lift up the cover pull it to the right and lift it straight up and you should be able to slide out the filter.

What is the lawsuit on the Honda Odyssey 2019?

A Honda transmission lawsuit alleges that 2018–2019 Honda Odyssey minivans experience gear shifting and acceleration problems due to defective 9-speed transmissions. These symptoms are among the common transmission problems reported by drivers nationwide.

How many air filters does a Honda Odyssey have?

two
There are two major air filters in your Honda Odyssey.

T P Auto Repair

Serving San Diego since 1984, T P Auto Repair is an ASE-certified NAPA AutoCare Center and Star Smog Check Station. Known for honest service and quality repairs, we help drivers with everything from routine maintenance to advanced diagnostics.

Leave a Comment