How many air filters does a Honda CR-V have?

Most Honda CR-Vs use two air filters: one engine air filter and one cabin air filter. This means separate filters for the engine intake and for the passenger compartment's air supply.

Understanding the two filters

The engine air filter sits in the engine's air intake box and keeps dust and debris from entering the engine, helping maintain performance and fuel efficiency. The cabin air filter cleans the air entering the HVAC system, improving interior air quality for occupants.

Locations and maintenance basics

Here's a quick rundown of where to find each filter and how often to replace them.

• Engine air filter: Located in the engine bay inside the air intake box. Access typically requires removing the cover or clips of the air box. Replacement intervals commonly around 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or about every 24 months, but check your owner's manual and service schedule.


• Cabin air filter: Located behind the glove box or under a panel in the passenger footwell, depending on year and trim. Replacement intervals commonly around 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or every 12-24 months; more frequent if you drive in dusty or polluted environments.

Regular replacement of both filters helps maintain engine performance and cabin air quality, and is recommended by Honda in owner's manuals. For some models, service intervals may be slightly different, so always verify with your specific year and trim.

Model-year and market variations

Across recent generations of the Honda CR-V, the basic two-filter setup remains standard in most markets. Some very early models or regional variants may differ, but two filters are the standard configuration in current U.S. models and most global versions.

• Engine air filter location and access: engine bay air box near the front; simple cover removal to replace.


• Cabin air filter location and access: behind the glove box or under a panel; may require removing the glove box or a trim piece.


• Typical replacement cadence: engine air filter every 30,000 miles or 24 months; cabin air filter every 15,000-30,000 miles or 12-24 months; dusty conditions may shorten the interval.

Bottom line: For most Honda CR-V owners, two air filters—engine and cabin—keep the vehicle running cleanly and the interior air fresh. Always check the owner's manual for the exact intervals tailored to your year and environment.

Summary

In summary, a Honda CR-V typically has two air filters: one for the engine and one for the cabin. Regular checks and replacements are important for performance and comfort, with intervals generally around 30,000 miles for the engine filter and 15,000-30,000 miles for the cabin filter, adjusted for driving conditions and model year.

Can I just clean my cabin air filter instead of replacing it?

Yes, you can clean a cabin air filter, especially if it's only lightly dirty or you are in a pinch between replacements, but it's not a substitute for regular replacement, as cleaning doesn't restore its original efficiency. For a deep cleaning, vacuum the filter and then rinse it with a low-pressure hose or a mild soapy water solution, making sure to let it air dry completely before reinstallation. 
Cleaning a cabin air filter

1. Locate and remove the filter: Check your owner's manual or online resources for the specific location, which is often behind the glove box. 
2. Remove loose dirt: Tap the filter to shake off large debris. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove as much loose dirt as possible. 
3. Clean the filter: 
   • Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to go over the filter's surface. 
   • Wash (for reusable filters): For a deeper clean, you can use a low-pressure hose to rinse water from the clean side to the dirty side. You can also soak it in a solution of soapy water for at least 10 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly with fresh water. 
   • Air dry: Allow the filter to air dry completely, preferably in the sun. Only reinstall it when it is fully dry. 
4. Reinstall: Place the filter back in the housing, making sure to orient it correctly according to any airflow arrows on the filter. 

When to replace instead of clean

• If the filter is heavily contaminated or heavily soiled. 
• If the filter is damaged or torn. 
• If the filter is a paper type that is not designed to be cleaned and washed. 
• If you notice reduced airflow, musty odors, or poor heating/cooling performance, it's best to replace the filter for optimal performance and air quality. 

Where is the air filter in a Honda CRV?

Them use your thumb. And they'll pop right. Off. Next you need to wiggle off the cover you just jiggle it a little bit and then you'll see the air filter. Pull it right out.

What is the most common problem with Honda CRV?

The most common problem with the Honda CR-V is air conditioning system failures, particularly compressor issues that can occur between 40,000 and 100,000 miles, according to this YouTube video. Other frequent problems include engine issues like oil consumption and fuel leaks (especially in the 2011-2012 model years), and electrical glitches such as faulty door actuators or alternator problems. For newer models, some owners report problems with the fuel injectors that can cause safety feature malfunctions, while others have experienced issues with the power steering. 
Common problems by system 
This video explains the common problems with the Honda CR-V, including AC failures, oil consumption, and steering issues: 1mCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 1, 2025

• Air Conditioning: Frequent failures, sometimes referred to as "Honda Black Death," especially in models from 2002-2009. This is often due to compressor failure. 
• Engine: Excessive oil consumption has been reported, particularly in the 2011 model year. Fuel can also leak into the engine oil, leading to engine damage. 
• Electrical:
  • Alternator problems: In some models, the alternator can fluctuate in voltage, causing various issues. 
  • Door actuators: Randomly locking and unlocking doors can occur, and in rare cases, the locks may jam. 
• Safety/Driving:
  • Steering: Some models have issues with "sticking" steering or defective electronic power steering (EPS) racks. 
  • Automatic Emergency Braking: On certain models, the system has been known to activate unexpectedly. 
  • Fuel injectors: On some models, faulty fuel injectors have been linked to failures in safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. 
• Other:
  • Transmission: Some models have reported issues with rough shifting or premature transmission failure. 
  • Brakes: Warped front brake rotors causing vibration when braking have been reported. 
  • Wiper Motor: Failure of the windshield wiper motor can cause the wipers to not park properly. 

Which model years are affected?

• 2002–2009: Noted for AC "Black Death" failures.
• 2011: Known for excessive oil consumption.
• 2017–2019: Reports of safety system malfunctions and steering issues.
• 2019: Specific problems with fuel injectors and the emergency braking system.
• 2022: Recalls and issues with the alarm system and keyless entry. 

How much does it cost to replace a cabin air filter on a Honda CRV?

The cost to replace a Honda CR-V cabin air filter ranges from $15-$35 for the part alone and $208-$305 for a professional replacement at a dealership or mechanic, which includes labor and a certified part. You can save money by purchasing the filter yourself from a parts store and doing it as a DIY project.
 
You can watch this video to learn how to replace the cabin air filter in a Honda CR-V: 57sVinnie TYouTube · May 21, 2024
Cost breakdown

• DIY (Parts only): Approximately $15–$35 for the filter itself, depending on the brand and type (standard vs. activated charcoal). 
• Professional service: Approximately $208–$305 (including labor and parts) at a shop or dealership. 
  • Dealer prices can be higher, sometimes ranging from $40 to over $100 for a manufacturer-approved filter and professional labor, according to Capital One. 

What you can expect to pay

Option	Price Range	Notes
DIY	$15–$35	You purchase the part and replace it yourself.
Professional	$208–$305+	Includes the cost of the filter and labor.

(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='_ptYlafieAaymi-gPs-bVgAQ_142';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();