Replace the Cabin (Pollen) Filter

The cabin (dust and pollen) filter on the eighth-generation Accord sits behind the glove box, in the blower housing. It is a tool-free swap that clears musty smells and weak airflow, and it is service sub-item “2” in the Maintenance Minder schedule.

Driving the North American Accord (2008–2012)? See the US-market guide.

How to replace the cabin filter on a Honda Accord (2008–2015)

1. Open the glove box fully.
2. Remove the glove box separator and the glove box cover behind it to expose the filter housing.
3. Slide out the dust and pollen filter assembly from the blower unit.
4. Fit the new filter with its airflow arrow pointing the same way as the old one (airflow is normally downward).
5. Refit the cover and separator, and close the glove box.

Replace the filter at the Maintenance Minder interval, or sooner — roughly every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) if you drive in dusty or heavily polluted conditions, or whenever airflow from the vents drops noticeably.

Note the orientation before you pull the old element out; fitting the new one upside down reduces airflow and can let the frame seat badly against the housing.

Frequently asked questions

Where is the cabin filter on an Accord?

Behind the glove box. Once the glove box separator and cover are removed, the filter assembly slides straight out of the blower housing — no tools are needed.

How often should it be changed?

At the Maintenance Minder sub-item “2” call, or about every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) in dusty areas. Weak airflow or a stale smell from the vents is the usual sign it is overdue.

Which way does the filter face?

Follow the airflow arrow printed on the frame, matching the old filter’s orientation (normally pointing downward). Fitting it the wrong way round restricts airflow.