Where Is the Cabin Air Filter Located in a Honda Accord?

In most Honda Accords from 1998 to the latest models, the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box; lower or “drop” the glove box and remove a small rectangular access cover on the HVAC housing to reach it. Older Accords from the early 1990s may not have a cabin filter at all, and very minor differences exist by generation and market, but the glove-box-access location is overwhelmingly standard.

Location by Model Year and Generation

2023–2025 (11th generation) and 2018–2022 (10th generation)

Behind the glove box on the passenger side. Open the glove box, release the side stops to let it swing down, and you’ll see a plastic door on the HVAC case; the filter slides straight out.

2013–2017 (9th generation)

Behind the glove box. The access door is directly behind the dropped glove box. No tools typically required beyond gently flexing the box past its side tabs.

2008–2012 (8th generation)

Behind the glove box. Procedure and location mirror later models, with a removable rectangular panel on the HVAC housing.

2003–2007 (7th generation)

Behind the glove box. Many models use a two-piece cabin filter element that installs side-by-side in the same slot.

1998–2002 (6th generation)

Behind the glove box. Often uses a two-piece filter design. Access is through a cover plate once the glove box is lowered.

1997 and earlier (5th generation and older)

Many U.S.-market Accords from the early-to-mid 1990s did not come with a cabin air filter. If present (certain trims/markets), it is still typically accessed from behind the glove box, but consult the owner’s manual for confirmation.

How to Access and Replace the Filter

The following steps outline a typical process for reaching and replacing the cabin air filter on most Accords from 1998 onward. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific details and safety guidance.

1. Empty the glove box to prevent items from falling.
2. Open the glove box and gently press inward on both side walls to release the stops; allow the glove box to swing down.
3. Locate the rectangular access door on the HVAC housing behind the glove box; unclip or unfasten it.
4. Slide out the old cabin filter. Note orientation arrows indicating airflow direction.
5. Insert the new filter with the airflow arrow pointing the correct way (usually down). For two-piece filters (common on some 1998–2007 models), slide in the first half, then the second.
6. Reinstall the access door, lift the glove box back into place, and re-engage the side stops.

Once reassembled, verify the glove box latches smoothly and run the fan to ensure there’s no unusual noise, indicating the filter is seated properly.

Maintenance Tips and What to Expect

These points can help you keep the HVAC system efficient and the interior air clean, while avoiding common mistakes during replacement.

• Service interval: Typically every 15,000–30,000 miles or 12–24 months, sooner in dusty or high-pollen regions.
• Symptoms of a clogged filter include weak airflow, musty odors, and louder blower operation.
• Filter types: Standard paper, activated carbon (odor reduction), and HEPA-style options are available; ensure compatibility with your model year.
• Right-hand-drive markets: The filter remains behind the glove box on the passenger side (which is the right side in those vehicles).
• If your early-1990s Accord lacks a filter: Some HVAC housings can accept retrofit kits, but not all; check parts compatibility before attempting.
• No power tools are needed; take care not to crack the glove box side stops when squeezing them inward.

Adhering to these practices preserves HVAC performance, minimizes odors, and maintains interior air quality with minimal effort.

Common Signs Yours Needs Attention

If you’re unsure whether the filter needs replacement, watch for these telltale indicators.

• Reduced airflow even with the fan on higher speeds
• Persistent musty or mildew smell from vents
• Excess dust on the dashboard shortly after cleaning
• Noisy blower or whistling sounds from the vent area

Addressing these symptoms promptly by checking the filter can prevent strain on the blower motor and improve cabin comfort.

Summary

For nearly all Honda Accords from 1998 through current models, the cabin air filter sits behind the glove box, accessed by lowering the glove box and removing an HVAC access cover. Some early-1990s Accords may not have a filter. Replacement is typically tool-free, takes just a few minutes, and should be done every 15,000–30,000 miles or as conditions warrant.

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.

Where is the cabin air filter in a Honda Accord?

It push the bolt side of glove box inwards and let it drop. Down. And you can then remove the glove. Box you should see the cabin air filter location. Now then remove the housing. Cover.

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

Change your Honda Accord’s cabin air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, or about once a year, and always check your owner’s manual for your specific vehicle’s recommendation. You may need to replace it more frequently if you drive in dusty or poor air quality areas, such as construction zones or on dirt roads. 
Signs you need to change the filter 

• Reduced airflow: from your air vents
• Lingering musty odors: or other unpleasant smells from your climate control system
• Excessive dust: on surfaces inside your car

Factors that require more frequent changes 

• Driving through construction areas or areas with poor air quality
• Driving on dirt roads or off-roading
• Frequent use of the air conditioning system in dusty or humid conditions

How to find your filter

• Consult your owner’s manual for the exact location and specific replacement interval for your model year. 
• In most models, the cabin air filter is located behind the glove box. 

This video shows how to locate and replace the cabin air filter in a 2013-2017 Honda Accord: 56sWashington LifeYouTube · Jan 20, 2024

Will a dirty cabin air filter affect the AC?

A dirty cabin air filter significantly degrades your AC’s performance by restricting airflow, forcing the system to work harder and reducing cooling efficiency. This leads to weaker air from the vents, longer cool-down times, increased fuel consumption, and can even strain components like the compressor, potentially causing costly damage.
 
This video explains the symptoms of a dirty cabin air filter and its impact on AC performance: 1mcar PROblemsYouTube · May 15, 2023
How a dirty filter affects your AC:

• Reduced Airflow: A clogged filter blocks air from flowing freely through the system. 
• Weak Air From Vents: Even with the fan on high, the air coming from the vents is noticeably weak or slow. 
• Decreased Cooling: The restricted airflow limits the AC’s ability to cool the cabin effectively, making it take longer to reach a comfortable temperature. 
• Increased Strain: Your AC system has to work much harder to compensate for the lack of airflow, which consumes more energy and can lead to reduced efficiency. 
• Potential for Damage: The extra strain on the AC compressor and other components can lead to premature wear and tear, potentially causing expensive damage over time. 

This video demonstrates how a dirty cabin air filter affects the AC system and highlights the importance of replacing it: 54sUnderhood ServiceYouTube · Jan 31, 2020
What to do:

• Check your manual: Find out if your car has a cabin air filter and where it’s located. 
• Inspect the filter: Look at the filter to see if it’s visibly dirty or clogged with dust and debris. 
• Replace it: Changing the cabin air filter is a simple, inexpensive maintenance task that can significantly improve your AC’s performance and your vehicle’s overall efficiency.