How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2015-2020 Honda Fit (DIY Step-by-Step Guide) (Engine: Inline 4 1.5L)
Tools, parts, safety tips, and simple steps to restore airflow and prevent intake leaks
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2015-2020 Honda Fit (DIY Step-by-Step Guide) (Engine: Inline 4 1.5L)
Tools, parts, safety tips, and simple steps to restore airflow and prevent intake leaks for 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020
đź”§ Fit - Engine Air Filter Replacement
Your Fit’s engine air filter sits inside the airbox and keeps dust and debris out of the engine. Replacing it restores proper airflow and helps performance and fuel economy.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.4 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- 🧤 Work with the engine off and cool to avoid burns.
- Keep dirt/leaves from falling into the intake while the airbox is open.
- Do not pull on wiring near the airbox (especially the MAF sensor harness). MAF sensor = airflow sensor; it’s delicate.
- Battery disconnect is not required for this job.
đź”§ Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- Phillips #2 screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Flashlight
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Engine air filter - Qty: 1
đź“‹ Before You Begin
- Park on level ground, shift to neutral, and set the parking brake.
- Turn the ignition OFF and open the hood.
- Have a rag handy so you can wipe debris off the airbox before opening it.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Locate the airbox
- Use a flashlight to find the black plastic airbox and the large intake tube in the engine bay.
- Use nitrile gloves and wipe loose dust off the airbox area so it doesn’t fall inside.
Step 2: Release the airbox fasteners
- Use your flathead screwdriver to gently help flip open the metal clips (if they’re tight).
- If your airbox uses screws instead of clips on your Fit, use a Phillips #2 screwdriver to loosen/remove them.
- Don’t force it—plastic tabs can snap.
Step 3: Open the airbox cover
- Use your hands to lift the airbox lid just enough to access the filter.
- If the intake tube limits movement, use a Phillips #2 screwdriver to loosen the hose clamp slightly (only if needed) and reposition the lid carefully.
Step 4: Remove the old filter
- Use your hands to pull the filter straight out.
- Use a flashlight to check the bottom of the airbox for leaves or heavy dirt.
Step 5: Clean the airbox sealing surface
- Use your hands and a clean rag to wipe the airbox sealing edge and inside surface (do not push dirt into the intake opening).
- If you see debris, lift it out by hand—don’t blow it deeper into the box.
Step 6: Install the new filter
- Use your hands to place the new filter into the airbox.
- Make sure the filter sits flat and fully seated all the way around (no pinched corners).
Step 7: Close and secure the airbox
- Use your hands to close the airbox lid evenly.
- Re-latch the clips with your hands, or tighten screws with the Phillips #2 screwdriver.
- If you loosened a hose clamp, tighten it with the Phillips #2 screwdriver until snug (do not overtighten).
âś… After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 30 seconds.
- Listen for hissing/whistling (can indicate the airbox lid isn’t sealed).
- Do a short test drive and confirm the engine feels normal and no warning lights appear.
đź’° DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $50-$120 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $35-$85 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.4 hours.
🎯 Ready to get started?
HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.
Guide for Engine Air Filter replace for these Honda vehicles
| Year Make Model | Sub Model | Engine | Body Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 Honda Fit | - | Inline 4 1.5L | - |
| 2019 Honda Fit | - | Inline 4 1.5L | - |
| 2018 Honda Fit | - | Inline 4 1.5L | - |
| 2017 Honda Fit | - | Inline 4 1.5L | - |
| 2016 Honda Fit | - | Inline 4 1.5L | - |
| 2015 Honda Fit | - | Inline 4 1.5L | - |


















