Where is the air filter on a 2018 Honda Accord?

The engine air filter sits inside the black plastic air-cleaner box in the engine bay, typically at the front corner on the driver’s side (left side on U.S. left-hand-drive models), just behind the headlight. The cabin air filter is separate and located behind the glove box inside the cabin. Below is a quick guide to finding and accessing both.

Engine air filter location (gasoline and hybrid models)

On all 2018 Accord trims (1.5T, 2.0T, and Hybrid), the engine air filter is housed in a rectangular “air cleaner” box. It connects to a snorkel that pulls air from the grille area and to an intake tube that leads to the engine. You can identify it by its shape, mounting, and nearby components.

• Rectangular black plastic box with several metal clips or Phillips/8 mm screws around the perimeter.
• Positioned near the driver-side headlight in most left-hand-drive cars; near the corresponding front corner in right-hand-drive markets.
• A plastic snorkel/duct running toward the front grille and another tube running toward the engine intake.

Once you’ve identified the air cleaner box, you can open it to inspect or replace the filter without removing major components.

How to access the engine air filter

The steps below outline a quick, tool-light way to check or change the engine air filter on a 2018 Accord.

1. Park on a level surface, switch off the engine, set the parking brake, and open the hood.
2. Locate the air cleaner box at the driver-side front corner of the engine bay.
3. Release the retaining hardware: unclip the spring clips or remove the perimeter screws (usually a few Phillips/8 mm fasteners).
4. Lift the upper half of the air box slightly and hinge it back enough to expose the filter element. Take care not to strain any attached sensors or hoses.
5. Remove the old filter, wipe out debris in the lower box, and insert the new filter. Most engine filters are not directional, but seat it flat with the gasketed edge aligned in the tray.
6. Reinstall the lid, ensuring the tabs seat correctly, and refasten the clips/screws evenly to seal the box.

After reassembly, check that the lid is fully seated and that no tools or rags remain in the engine bay.

Cabin air filter location (behind the glove box)

The cabin air filter cleans the air entering the interior through the HVAC system. In the 2018 Accord, it’s behind the glove box and can be replaced without tools in a few minutes.

1. Open the glove box and remove its contents.
2. Detach the small damper arm (on the side of the glove box) by sliding it off its peg.
3. Squeeze the glove box sides inward to release the stops and allow the box to drop down.
4. Behind the glove box opening, locate the rectangular HVAC access panel; release its side tabs and remove the cover.
5. Pull out the old cabin filter, noting the airflow direction arrow (typically “AIR FLOW” pointing down in Hondas).
6. Insert the new filter with the arrow oriented the same way, reinstall the cover, lift the glove box back into place, reattach the damper arm, and close the glove box.

Replacing the cabin filter regularly helps maintain HVAC performance and reduce odors and dust inside the vehicle.

Notes on trims and minor variations

While the basic locations are consistent across the 2018 Accord line, you may notice small differences depending on engine and market equipment.

• 1.5T and 2.0T: The air box position and access method are virtually identical; fastener count (clips vs. screws) can vary slightly.
• Hybrid: The air box remains near the driver-side front corner, but under-hood packaging is tighter. You may need to lift the lid more carefully around additional wiring and covers.
• Right-hand-drive markets: “Driver’s side” corresponds to the right side; look for the air box at the front corner near the headlight on that side.

If your vehicle has aftermarket intake components, the air filter may be in a different style of housing or cone filter; follow the manufacturer’s instructions in that case.

When to replace and what to watch for

Service intervals depend on driving conditions. Dusty environments and frequent stop‑and‑go driving shorten filter life. Always refer to your owner’s manual for official guidance.

• Engine air filter: Inspect every 12,000–15,000 miles (19,000–24,000 km); replace around 15,000–30,000 miles (24,000–48,000 km) or sooner if dirty.
• Cabin air filter: Replace about every 12,000–15,000 miles (19,000–24,000 km) or annually.
• Symptoms of a dirty engine filter: Reduced acceleration, lower fuel economy, visible dirt/debris in the pleats.
• Symptoms of a dirty cabin filter: Weak HVAC airflow, persistent fogging, musty odors.

Regular checks help maintain performance, fuel economy, and in-cabin air quality while preventing debris from entering the intake system.

Summary

The 2018 Honda Accord’s engine air filter is inside the air-cleaner box at the driver-side front corner of the engine bay, behind the headlight, while the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box. Both are easy to access with minimal tools. Inspect them periodically and follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual for best results.

How many air filters does a 2018 Honda Accord have?

There are two normal air filters in your 2018 Honda Accord. The engine air filter is located in the engine bay and is used to filter out harmful particles that may cause damage to your vehicle’s engine.

How to change air filter for 2018 Honda Accord?

Open the glove. Box on the right side of the glove. Box release the support arm by pushing it back towards the engine push in both rear corners of the glove box and lower the glove.

What is the most common problem with the 2018 Honda Accord?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

• In-car Electronics. Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
• Climate System.
• Electrical Accessories.
• Exhaust.
• Fuel System/Emissions.
• Noises/Leaks.
• Brakes.
• Engine Major.

Where is the air filter located in a Honda Accord?

Down. And we’re going to shine a light up here to reveal. This cover. So now you should be able to see this cover that’s in place and behind this cover will be your cabin airflow filter.