Where to Find the Cabin Air Filter in a 2021 Honda CR-V

The cabin air filter in a 2021 Honda CR‑V is located behind the glove box on the passenger side; you access it by lowering the glove box and removing a small rectangular access panel. In practical terms, this makes replacement a quick, tool-light task most owners can handle in minutes, with no need to dig into the engine bay.

Location and Access Overview

Honda situates the CR‑V’s dust and pollen (cabin) filter directly behind the glove compartment to streamline service and keep the HVAC intake path short. Owners typically encounter a damper arm attached to the glove box and a squeeze-stop mechanism on the box sides; these allow the glove box to drop out of the way and reveal the filter housing.

Tools and Time

Most drivers will not need specialty tools to access the filter. Here are the basics you might want on hand before you begin.

• A flashlight (helpful to see the housing clips and orientation arrows)
• A clean cloth or small vacuum (optional, to clear debris in the housing)
• Replacement cabin air filter of the correct size for the 2021 CR‑V

With these items, the job typically takes 5–10 minutes for a first-time DIYer and less once you’re familiar with the layout.

Step-by-Step: How to Access the Filter

The following steps outline how to reach and replace the cabin air filter in the 2021 Honda CR‑V. Proceed gently to avoid stressing the glove box hinges or damper.

1. Open the passenger-side glove box and remove any contents.
2. Detach the small damper arm on the right side of the glove box by sliding it off its peg.
3. Squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to release the side stops, then let the glove box swing down and out of the way.
4. Locate the rectangular cabin filter door on the HVAC housing directly behind the glove box opening; release the side tabs to remove the cover.
5. Slide out the old filter, noting the airflow direction indicated by arrows on the filter and/or housing.
6. Insert the new filter in the same orientation (on most 2021 CR‑V models, the airflow arrow points downward—verify with the markings on your housing).
7. Reinstall the access cover, swing the glove box back up, snap the side stops back into place, and reattach the damper arm.

Once reassembled, ensure the glove box opens and closes smoothly and that the damper arm is secure. Turn on the fan to confirm normal airflow and listen for any unusual sounds that could indicate mis-seated filter media.

Service Interval and Maintenance Minder

Honda generally recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 12,000–15,000 miles or about once a year, sooner in dusty or high-pollen environments. The CR‑V’s Maintenance Minder typically flags this task under subcode “2,” which also includes the engine air cleaner element and a drive belt inspection.

Signs Your Cabin Filter Needs Replacement

Beyond the scheduled interval, a few symptoms can alert you that it’s time to change the cabin air filter sooner.

• Reduced airflow through the vents at normal fan speeds
• Persistent musty or dusty odors from the HVAC system
• Foggy windows that clear more slowly
• Increased dust accumulation on the dash and interior surfaces

If you notice one or more of these symptoms, a quick inspection behind the glove box can confirm whether the filter is clogged with debris or excessively dirty.

Fitment Notes and Tips

The 2021 CR‑V shares its cabin filter location and general access method with the 2017–2022 generation. Keep these points in mind to avoid common mistakes and ensure proper fitment.

• Orientation matters: follow the airflow arrow on the filter and any “UP” or directional markings on the housing.
• Do not confuse the cabin filter with the engine air filter; the latter is in the engine bay.
• If the new filter seems too tight, check for pleats caught on the housing edge and verify the correct part size.
• Lightly vacuum the filter cavity to remove leaves and debris before installing the new filter.

These simple checks help maintain HVAC efficiency, reduce blower noise, and keep interior air cleaner between services.

Warranty and DIY Considerations

Replacing the cabin air filter is considered routine maintenance and is typically owner-serviceable without affecting warranty coverage. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions and specifications, especially for trims with additional accessories or differences in the glove box damper design.

Bottom Line

The cabin air filter on a 2021 Honda CR‑V sits directly behind the glove box, accessible by dropping the glove box and removing a small access panel. With minimal tools and a few minutes, you can replace it yourself and restore clean airflow to the cabin.

Summary

For the 2021 Honda CR‑V, the cabin air filter is located behind the passenger-side glove box. Lower the glove box by releasing its side stops and damper, remove the filter door, and swap the filter—observing the correct airflow direction, typically downward. Expect a 5–10 minute job, with replacement recommended about every 12,000–15,000 miles or as indicated by the Maintenance Minder.

Where is the cabin air filter in a Honda CR-V?

That’s going to come off right there. And then we’re going to kind of push over here. And unhook these latches right there then we’re going to pull right here.

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

You should change the cabin air filter on a Honda CRV every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, or about once a year, but check your owner’s manual for the precise recommendation. You may need to change it more frequently if you drive in dusty, polluted areas, near construction zones, or off-road, or if you notice signs like reduced airflow, musty odors, or increased dust inside your vehicle. 
Factors that may require more frequent changes:

• Driving Environment: Driving through areas with heavy construction, poor air quality, or on dirt/gravel roads can clog the filter faster. 
• Climate: In humid climates, mold can grow on an old filter, leading to mildew smells. 

Signs your cabin air filter needs changing:

• Reduced airflow: You experience slower airflow from your climate control system (AC or heat). 
• Unpleasant odors: You smell mildew, musty smells, or other offensive odors coming from the vents. 
• Increased dust: You notice dust accumulating on surfaces inside your car more quickly than usual. 

Where to find your filter and check recommendations:

• Owner’s Manual: Your CRV’s owner’s manual contains specific information on when to replace the cabin air filter for your model. 
• Service Center: A Honda service center or parts department can help you identify if your filter needs replacement and can do it for you. 
• Location: The filter is often located behind the glove box, but check your owner’s manual for its exact location. 

What is the most common problem with the 2021 Honda CR-V?

One of the most common issues reported in the 2021 Honda CR-V is battery drain, where the battery drains unexpectedly- even when the vehicle is not in use. This can lead to difficulties starting the vehicle and may require frequent jump-starts.

Where is the cabin air filter on a 2021 Honda CR-V?

First open the glove box then squeeze both sides of the glove box and pull it down release the stopping arm by pushing it. Down. You should now see the cabin air filter behind the glove.