Where to Find the Cabin Air Filter on a Honda Fit

The cabin air filter on every Honda Fit (also sold as the Honda Jazz in many markets) is located behind the passenger-side glove box; drop the glove box to reveal a rectangular access door on the HVAC housing. This consistent placement spans all model years and trims, with no tools typically required to access it.

What “behind the glove box” means on the Fit

Honda places the Fit’s cabin air filter in the HVAC case just behind the passenger-side glove box. To reach it, you open and lower the glove box, unclip its side damper, squeeze the box’s sides to let it swing down further, and then you’ll see the filter cover. This design keeps the filter accessible for quick DIY service and dealership maintenance alike.

Location by generation and market

While interior trim and right/left-hand-drive layouts vary by region, the filter location is consistent. The list below shows how it maps across model years and names.

• U.S./Canada Honda Fit (2007–2020): Behind the passenger-side glove box.
• Global Honda Fit/Jazz, 1st–4th gen (approx. 2001–present in various markets): Behind the passenger-side glove box.
• Right-hand-drive markets (e.g., UK, Japan, Australia): Still behind the passenger-side glove box (left side of the dash in RHD vehicles).

Regardless of trim or infotainment options, the filter housing remains in the same place, making replacement procedures nearly identical across the lineup.

How to access and replace the cabin air filter

The steps below apply to most Fits/Jazz models and generally require no tools. Always check your owner’s manual for model-specific notes.

1. Empty the glove box so items don’t spill when it drops down.
2. Open the glove box and locate the small damper/retainer on the right side; gently unclip it from the glove box.
3. Squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to release the stop tabs, allowing the box to hinge downward further.
4. With the glove box dropped, look straight ahead at the HVAC housing. Remove the rectangular filter door/cover by pressing its side tabs.
5. Slide out the old cabin air filter. Note the direction of the airflow arrow on the old filter or housing.
6. Insert the new filter in the same orientation:
   – If the filter shows “AIRFLOW” arrows, they should typically point downward in the Fit.
   – If the filter shows an “UP” arrow, that arrow should face up.
7. Reinstall the cover until it clicks, swing the glove box back up, re-engage the side squeeze tabs, and reattach the right-side damper.

Plan on 5–10 minutes. If debris falls out during removal, vacuum the area lightly before inserting the new filter. Close the glove box and test airflow with the fan to confirm proper placement.

Right-hand-drive note

In right-hand-drive Fits/Jazz, the glove box is still on the passenger side (left side of the cabin), and the filter remains behind it. The steps are the same; the small damper may appear mirrored versus left-hand-drive cars.

If your Fit appears to be “missing” a filter

Some vehicles in certain markets or trims may have left the factory without a cabin filter installed, even though the slot and cover are present. If you open the access door and see an empty slot, simply purchase a compatible cabin filter and slide it in per the orientation arrows.

Fitment tips and maintenance intervals

Most Fits use a single-panel cabin filter. Honda typically recommends inspection or replacement about every 12,000–15,000 miles (20,000–24,000 km) or annually, sooner if you drive in dusty, smoky, or high-pollen environments. Activated-carbon filters help reduce odors; standard particulate filters focus on dust and pollen. Always match the filter to your model year.

How to tell it’s time to change

Look for these common signs if you’re unsure whether the filter needs replacement:

• Reduced HVAC airflow at normal fan speeds
• Musty or stale odors when you turn on the fan or A/C
• Increased window fogging that clears slowly
• Visible debris or dark discoloration on the filter media

If one or more of these symptoms appear, replacing the filter is a quick, inexpensive fix that often restores airflow and reduces odors.

Summary

On every Honda Fit (Honda Jazz in many markets), the cabin air filter sits directly behind the passenger-side glove box. Drop the glove box, open the small rectangular access door, and slide the filter out and in—usually with no tools required. Follow the arrow orientation (AIRFLOW typically down; “UP” arrow up), and you can complete the job in minutes.

What is the most common problem with Honda Fit?

Top Honda Fit Problems

• Honda Fit HVAC blower fan only works on high speed due to resistor pack failure.
• Check Engine Light and Stuttering While Driving.
• Front Door Arm Rest May Break.
• The Fuel Filler Door May Not Open.
• Rear Washer Nozzle Borken or Missing.
• Rattle noise from under driver side of dash.

Does a 2009 Honda Fit have a cabin air filter?

Open the glove. Box. And squeeze in on both sides. Pull down at the same. Time.

How often should you change the cabin air filter on a Honda Fit?

every 15,000 to 30,000 miles
Maintenance interval: Honda recommends replacing the cabin air filter every 12 months or as needed, and the engine air filter should be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles.

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.