How to Change Cabin Filter in Honda Accord 2013: Step-by-Step Guide

Regular maintenance of your Honda Accord is essential to keep it running smoothly and ensure the well-being of its occupants. One often overlooked but crucial aspect of maintenance is changing the cabin air filter. The cabin air filter is responsible for trapping dust, pollen, and other airborne particles, providing clean and fresh air inside the vehicle’s cabin.

If you own a Honda Accord 2013 model and want to learn how to change the cabin filter, you’re in the right place. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process, making it easy for you to replace the cabin air filter and enjoy cleaner air during your drives.

What You’ll Need

Before we dive into the process, make sure you have the following tools and materials ready:

• A new cabin air filter compatible with your Honda Accord 2013 model
• A screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on your vehicle)
• A vacuum cleaner or compressed air for cleaning the filter housing

Step 1: Locate the Cabin Air Filter Housing

The first step is to locate the cabin air filter housing in your Honda Accord 2013. The housing is usually located behind the glove compartment, on the passenger side of the vehicle.

To access the housing, open the glove compartment and remove any items stored inside. Look for a small panel or cover at the back of the glove compartment. This panel is the cabin air filter housing cover.

Here’s a YouTube video that demonstrates the process:

Step 2: Remove the Cabin Air Filter Housing Cover

Once you’ve located the cabin air filter housing cover, carefully remove it. In most Honda Accord 2013 models, the cover is held in place by a few screws or clips. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws or gently detach the clips, depending on the type of fastening mechanism used in your vehicle.

After removing the screws or clips, set them aside in a safe place. You will need them later to secure the housing cover back in place.

Step 3: Take Out the Old Cabin Air Filter

With the housing cover removed, you can now access the old cabin air filter. Take a moment to observe how the filter is positioned inside the housing. This will help you correctly install the new filter later.

Remove the old cabin air filter from the housing. Depending on your Honda Accord 2013 model, the filter may simply slide out, or it may be secured with additional clips or fasteners. Gently detach any clips or fasteners and carefully pull out the old filter.

Inspect the old filter for dirt, debris, and signs of wear. If the filter appears dirty or damaged, it’s a clear indication that it needs to be replaced.

Step 4: Clean the Cabin Air Filter Housing

Before installing the new cabin air filter, it’s essential to clean the housing to ensure optimal performance. Use a vacuum cleaner or compressed air to remove any dust, leaves, or debris from the housing. Pay extra attention to the corners and edges of the housing where particles tend to accumulate.

Cleaning the housing will prevent any contaminants from entering the cabin and ensure the longevity of the new filter.

Step 5: Install the New Cabin Air Filter

Now it’s time to install the new cabin air filter. Take the new filter and align it with the housing, following the same orientation as the old filter. Make sure the filter fits securely and snugly into the housing.

If your new filter has additional clips or fasteners, attach them to secure the filter in place. Ensure that the filter is properly seated and there are no gaps or loose connections.

Step 6: Reattach the Cabin Air Filter Housing Cover

With the new cabin air filter in place, it’s time to reattach the housing cover. Retrieve the screws or clips that you set aside earlier and use them to secure the cover back onto the housing.

Ensure that the cover is tightly secured to prevent any air leaks. A loose cover may compromise the effectiveness of the cabin air filter.

Step 7: Test the New Cabin Air Filter

Before closing the glove compartment, it’s a good idea to test the new cabin air filter. Turn on the vehicle’s ventilation system and feel the air coming out of the vents. If the airflow is strong and you notice a significant improvement in air quality, congratulations! You have successfully replaced the cabin air filter in your Honda Accord 2013.

If you don’t notice any improvement or the airflow is weak, double-check the installation to ensure the filter is correctly positioned and secured. Also, make sure that the housing cover is tightly fastened.

Conclusion

Changing the cabin air filter in your Honda Accord 2013 is a simple yet important maintenance task that can significantly enhance the air quality inside your vehicle. By following the step-by-step guide outlined in this article, you can easily replace the cabin air filter and enjoy cleaner and fresher air during your drives.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. How often should I change the cabin air filter in my Honda Accord 2013?

The cabin air filter in your Honda Accord 2013 should be replaced every 15,000 to 30,000 miles or every 12 to 24 months. However, if you frequently drive in dusty or polluted environments, it’s a good idea to check the filter’s condition more frequently and replace it as needed.

2. Can I clean and reuse the old cabin air filter instead of replacing it?

No, it is not recommended to clean and reuse the old cabin air filter. Cabin air filters are designed to trap and remove airborne particles, and over time, they become clogged with dirt and debris. Cleaning the filter may not effectively remove all contaminants, compromising its performance. It’s best to replace the filter with a new one for optimal air quality and filtration.

3. Where can I purchase a new cabin air filter for my Honda Accord 2013?

You can purchase a new cabin air filter for your Honda Accord 2013 from various sources:

• Authorized Honda dealerships
• Automotive parts stores
• Online retailers

Ensure that the filter you purchase is compatible with your 2013 Honda Accord model.

4. Can I change the cabin air filter in my Honda Accord 2013 myself, or should I take it to a professional?

You can change the cabin air filter in your Honda Accord 2013 yourself, even if you have limited automotive knowledge. The process is relatively straightforward and requires basic tools. However, if you’re uncomfortable or unsure about performing the task, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional mechanic or take your vehicle to a trusted service center.

5. Apart from improving air quality, are there any other benefits to changing the cabin air filter?

Yes, changing the cabin air filter offers several benefits:

• Reduces allergens and irritants: A clean cabin air filter helps trap pollen, dust, and other allergens, providing relief for allergy sufferers.
• Improves HVAC system efficiency: A clogged cabin air filter puts extra strain on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, reducing its efficiency. Changing the filter ensures optimal airflow and HVAC system performance.
• Enhances driver and passenger comfort: Cleaner air inside the cabin creates a more pleasant driving experience, reducing odors and maintaining a fresh environment.

Considering these benefits, it’s clear that changing the cabin air filter is an essential maintenance task for your Honda Accord 2013.