How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2018 Honda Odyssey (DIY Guide)
Step-by-step air box instructions, tools/parts list, safety tips, and post-install checks for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
How to Replace the Engine Air Filter on a 2018 Honda Odyssey (DIY Guide)
Step-by-step air box instructions, tools/parts list, safety tips, and post-install checks for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
🔧 Odyssey - Engine Air Filter Replacement
Replacing the engine air filter helps your Odyssey breathe properly, which supports smooth acceleration and good fuel economy. It’s a quick job under the hood using the factory air box.
Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.2-0.5 hours
⚠️ Safety & Precautions
- ⚠️ Turn the engine off and let the intake area cool before working.
- ⚠️ Keep dirt and leaves out of the open air box and intake tube.
- ⚠️ Do not unplug or tug on the MAF sensor wiring; the MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor measures incoming air.
- ⚠️ Battery disconnect is not required for this repair.
🔧 Required Tools
You'll need the following tools for this repair:
- Safety glasses
- Nitrile gloves
- Flashlight
- Shop towel
🔩 Required Parts
HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:
- Engine air filter - Qty: 1
📋 Before You Begin
- Park your Odyssey on level ground and shift to Park.
- Set the parking brake and open the hood.
- Have a shop towel ready to wipe out loose dust (do not spray cleaners into the air box).
🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps in order:
Step 1: Locate the air filter housing
- Use a flashlight and find the black plastic air box connected to the large intake tube (the tube going toward the engine).
Step 2: Release the air box retaining clips
- Put on nitrile gloves and safety glasses.
- Use your hands (and a flashlight if needed) to unclip the metal/plastic retaining clips holding the air box lid shut.
- Tip: Support the lid so it doesn’t snap back.
Step 3: Open the air box lid
- Lift the air box lid up enough to remove the filter.
- Use a shop towel to gently catch any loose debris so it doesn’t fall into the lower half of the box.
Step 4: Remove the old air filter
- Pull the filter straight out by hand.
- Use a flashlight to note how the filter sits (orientation and seal position).
Step 5: Clean the air box sealing surface
- Use a shop towel to wipe dust from the air box rim where the filter seals.
- Do not push dirt into the intake opening.
Step 6: Install the new air filter
- Install the new filter in the same orientation as the old one.
- Make sure the filter sits flat and the rubber/foam seal is fully seated all the way around.
Step 7: Close the air box and re-latch the clips
- Lower the lid and ensure it lines up evenly with the lower air box.
- Snap all retaining clips back into place by hand.
- Use a flashlight to confirm the lid is fully closed on all sides (no gaps).
✅ After Repair
- Start the engine and let it idle for 30 seconds.
- Listen for any hissing/whistling that could indicate the air box lid isn’t fully latched.
- Take a short test drive and confirm no warning lights appear.
💰 DIY vs Shop Cost
Shop Cost: $60-$130 (parts + labor)
DIY Cost: $15-$35 (parts only)
You Save: $45-$95 by doing it yourself!
Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.2-0.5 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.

















