How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2018 Honda CR-V
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and cost info for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2018 Honda CR-V
Step-by-step instructions with tools, parts, safety tips, and cost info for 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022
🔧 Engine Air Filter - Replacement
The engine air filter on your CR-V is inside the air cleaner box under the hood. Replacing it helps keep dirt out of the turbocharged engine and can restore normal airflow if the filter is clogged.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 10-15 minutes
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- Make sure the engine is off and cool before starting.
- Keep loose clothing and fingers away from the engine bay edges.
- No battery disconnect is required for this job.
- Do not let dirt fall into the open air box.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Trim clip tool
- Flashlight
- Gloves
- Safety glasses
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Engine air filter - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
- Open the hood and secure it fully.
- Work with clean hands so you do not drop debris into the intake.
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Open the air cleaner box
- Locate the black air cleaner box near the front of the engine bay.
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen any retaining screws on the air box cover, if equipped.
- Release any clips by hand or use a trim clip tool if they are tight.
- Keep the area clean.
Step 2: Remove the old filter
- Lift the air box cover carefully and set it aside.
- Pull the old filter straight out of the housing.
- Check the housing for leaves, dust, or debris.
Step 3: Install the new filter
- Place the new engine air filter into the housing the same way the old one came out.
- Make sure it sits flat all the way around the seal.
- If the filter is not seated correctly, the lid will not close right.
Step 4: Close the air box
- Reinstall the air box cover.
- Snap all clips back into place by hand.
- If equipped, tighten the screws with a Phillips screwdriver until snug.
- Do not overtighten plastic parts.
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and listen for any unusual air leaks or whistling.
- Confirm the air box is fully closed and latched.
- Recheck that no tools or rags were left in the engine bay.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $70-$140 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $20-$40 (parts only)
You Save: $50-$100 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.


















