The 2020 Honda CR-V utilizes two essential air filters that require regular maintenance: an engine air filter that safeguards your vehicle's performance and a cabin air filter that ensures clean air inside your passenger compartment. Replacing these filters according to the recommended schedule of every 15,000-30,000 miles for the engine air filter and more frequently for the cabin air filter is critical for maintaining your vehicle's health, efficiency, and your own comfort. Understanding the signs of a dirty filter, the replacement process, and associated costs can save you money and prevent potential engine damage .

Your 2020 Honda CR-V relies on two separate air filtration systems to operate efficiently. The engine air filter is a critical component for vehicle performance, while the cabin air filter directly impacts the air you breathe inside the car. Neglecting either can lead to decreased performance, higher fuel costs, and potential health concerns. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to understand, maintain, and replace both air filters in your 2020 Honda CR-V .

The Two Essential Air Filters in Your 2020 Honda CR-V

Your vehicle employs two distinct filters for different purposes. The engine air filter is located under the hood in the engine bay. Its primary function is to prevent harmful particles such as dust, dirt, and other debris from entering the engine. Since engines require a substantial amount of air to burn fuel efficiently, any contamination can compromise performance and lead to expensive repairs over time. A clean air filter ensures your engine receives the clean air necessary for optimal combustion .

The cabin air filter, typically located behind the glove compartment, has a different purpose: cleaning the air that enters the interior of your vehicle through the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. This filter traps allergens like pollen and dust, along with pollutants such as smog, mold spores, and other hazardous fumes. While it doesn't affect how your engine runs, it significantly impacts the air quality inside your vehicle, which is particularly important for those with allergies or respiratory issues .

Both filters work on the same basic principle of capturing contaminants as air passes through them, but they serve entirely different systems within your vehicle. Understanding this distinction helps explain why two separate maintenance schedules are necessary for comprehensive vehicle care .

Why Regular Air Filter Replacement is Crucial

Replacing your engine air filter at proper intervals is essential for maintaining engine performance and longevity. When the filter becomes clogged with debris, it restricts airflow to the engine, creating an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture. This can lead to several noticeable issues including odd noises from the engine when idle, slow engine startup, dark smoke coming from the exhaust, and a significant decrease in fuel efficiency. You might also notice a decrease in acceleration, which can be particularly noticeable when merging onto highways or passing other vehicles .

The cabin air filter plays a different but equally important role in your vehicle's operation and your comfort. A dirty or clogged cabin air filter can lead to reduced airflow through your HVAC system, meaning your air conditioning and heating won't work as effectively. You might notice a bad odor coming from the vents, especially when you first turn on the system, or an abnormal increase in noise as air struggles to pass through the clogged filter. For allergy sufferers, a fresh cabin air filter can make driving during high-pollen seasons much more comfortable .

Regular replacement prevents more than just inconvenience; it can save you money on fuel and potentially avoid more expensive repairs down the line. A clean engine air filter helps maintain proper fuel efficiency, while a fresh cabin air filter ensures your HVAC system doesn't have to work harder than necessary, which could potentially extend its lifespan .

When to Replace Your 2020 Honda CR-V Air Filters

The 2020 Honda CR-V service manual provides specific guidelines for air filter replacement. For both the engine air filter and cabin air filter, replacement is recommended every 10,000 miles when driving in extreme conditions, which includes frequent stop-and-go traffic, dusty or sandy environments, or areas with high pollution levels. Under normal driving conditions, the interval can be extended to 15,000-30,000 miles .

However, these are general guidelines, and your specific driving habits and environment may necessitate more frequent changes. If you frequently drive on unpaved or dusty roads, live in an area with high pollen counts, or notice any of the warning signs mentioned earlier, you should replace your filters more often. A good practice is to have your filters inspected with every oil change, which many dealerships and repair shops offer as a free service .

For the cabin air filter, many experts recommend replacing it at least once a year, especially if you suffer from allergies or live in an area with high pollution. Since this filter directly impacts the air you breathe inside the vehicle, erring on the side of more frequent replacement is generally advisable. The cabin air filter should typically be changed more often than the engine air filter to ensure you and your passengers are not breathing in harmful allergens .

Recognizing the Signs of a Dirty Air Filter

Knowing when your air filters need replacement involves watching for specific symptoms. For the engine air filter, be alert to the following signs:

• Decreased acceleration or sluggish performance
• Unusual noises from the engine when the vehicle is idle
• Reduced fuel efficiency
• The service engine light illuminates on your dashboard
• Visible residue or grime buildup around the engine air intake
• Dark smoke coming from the exhaust
• The engine is slow to start

For the cabin air filter, the warning signs are different but equally noticeable:

• Unpleasant odors when you turn on the air conditioning or heat
• Noticeable decrease in airflow from the vents, even at higher settings
• Unusual increase in noise coming from the air vents
• Excessive window fogging due to reduced HVAC effectiveness
• Whistling sounds coming from the dashboard area

Even if you haven't noticed these symptoms but are approaching the recommended mileage interval for replacement, it's wise to inspect your filters. Catching a dirty filter before it causes performance issues can prevent more significant problems down the road .

Cost Considerations for Air Filter Replacement

The cost of replacing your 2020 Honda CR-V air filters consists of two components: the price of the filter itself and the labor cost if you have a professional perform the installation. Engine air filters typically cost between 20 and 45, while cabin air filters generally range from 15 to 35. These prices can vary based on the filter quality, brand, and where you purchase it .

If you choose to have a dealership or repair shop handle the replacement, you'll need to factor in labor costs. However, since both filter replacements are relatively quick procedures—often taking less than 30 minutes—the labor cost should be reasonable. Many dealerships offer package deals or coupons specifically for air filter replacement, so it's worth checking their website or asking about current promotions .

While aftermarket filters are often cheaper, it's generally recommended to use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) filters for your 2020 Honda CR-V. Certified OEM components are specifically designed for your vehicle, tend to last longer, and perform more effectively. Due to their relationship with the manufacturer, dealerships can often provide these OEM filters at competitive prices .

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Engine Air Filter

Replacing the engine air filter in your 2020 Honda CR-V is a straightforward maintenance task that many owners can handle themselves. Before beginning, make sure you have the correct replacement filter and basic tools such as a screwdriver. The air filter box is located in the engine bay on the right side, connected to a large intake pipe .

Start by opening your vehicle's hood and securing it with the prop rod. Locate the air filter housing, which is a black plastic box typically situated on the right side of the engine compartment. The housing is secured with clips or screws around its perimeter. Use the appropriate tool to loosen these fasteners—usually, you can simply flip up the metal clips or use a screwdriver for screw-type fasteners .

Once the fasteners are loosened, carefully lift off the top half of the air filter housing. You'll see the old air filter sitting in the bottom half of the housing. Lift out the old filter and take a moment to clean out the housing with a clean cloth, being careful not to let any debris fall into the intake tube. Before installing the new filter, compare it to the old one to ensure it's the correct size and type .

Place the new filter into the housing, making sure it sits evenly and seals properly around the edges. There's usually a specific orientation—check for alignment tabs or markings. Once the new filter is properly seated, reposition the housing cover and secure it by reattaching the clips or screws. Make sure all fasteners are snug but avoid overtightening, which could damage the plastic housing. Finally, close your hood and start the engine to verify everything is working properly .

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Cabin Air Filter

Replacing the cabin air filter in your 2020 Honda CR-V is even simpler than replacing the engine air filter and requires minimal tools. The cabin air filter is located behind the glove box in the passenger footwell. This task typically takes about 10-15 minutes to complete .

Begin by opening the glove box and removing any contents. To access the filter compartment, you need to lower the glove box. Look at the sides of the glove box where it attaches to the dashboard. You'll see stops or tabs that prevent the glove box from falling too far. Gently squeeze the sides of the glove box inward to clear these stops, allowing the glove box to lower further and hang down. Some models might have a support strap or damper that needs to be disconnected .

Behind where the glove box was, you'll see a rectangular cover. This is the access panel for the cabin air filter. The cover is typically secured with tabs or small screws. Press the tabs or remove the screws, then slide the cover off to reveal the filter compartment. Carefully pull out the old filter, noting the direction of the airflow arrow printed on its frame. This arrow indicates the proper installation direction for the new filter .

Before installing the new filter, take a moment to clean out the filter compartment with a cloth or vacuum if necessary. Grab your new cabin air filter and ensure the airflow arrow is pointing in the same direction as the old filter—usually with the arrow pointing toward the rear of the vehicle or downward. Slide the new filter into the compartment, making sure it sits evenly and securely. Replace the access cover and reassemble the glove box by reversing the removal process .

Once complete, turn on your vehicle's ignition and test the HVAC system at different fan speeds to ensure proper airflow. You should notice improved air volume and fresher smells almost immediately if your old filter was significantly clogged .

Choosing the Right Air Filter for Your Vehicle

When selecting replacement air filters for your 2020 Honda CR-V, you'll encounter several options. For the engine air filter, you can choose between standard cellulose filters or higher-performance synthetic options. Cabin air filters come in even more varieties, including particulate filters, activated carbon filters that help reduce odors, and allergy-specific HEPA-style filters that trap smaller particles .

While aftermarket filters can be less expensive, OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) filters are designed specifically for your vehicle and guaranteed to fit and perform correctly. Aftermarket filters vary in quality, so if you choose this route, look for reputable brands and check reviews to ensure you're getting a quality product. WIX (part number WA10417) is one example of an aftermarket brand that produces compatible air filters for the 2020 Honda CR-V .

For the cabin air filter, your choice may depend on your specific needs. If you primarily drive in the city with moderate pollution, a standard particulate filter may suffice. If you frequently encounter strong odors or suffer from allergies, an activated carbon or HEPA-style filter might be worth the additional cost. Regardless of which type you choose, always verify that the filter is specifically designed for your vehicle's make, model, and year .

Maintenance Tips for Extended Filter Life

While regular replacement is necessary, you can take steps to maximize the lifespan and effectiveness of your air filters. For the engine air filter, avoid driving in dusty conditions when possible, and if you must, consider checking the filter more frequently. When having other engine work done, ask the technician to inspect the air filter, as many shops offer this as a complimentary service .

For the cabin air filter, you can prolong its life by keeping the interior of your vehicle clean to reduce circulating debris. Avoid placing liquids or food crumbs near vents where they could be drawn into the system. If you frequently drive in areas with heavy pollution or high pollen counts, consider using a higher-quality filter designed for those conditions, but be prepared to replace it more often .

A good practice is to note the mileage and date each time you replace your filters. This makes it easier to track when the next replacement is due. Some vehicle maintenance apps can also send reminders when service is due based on your driving habits. Keeping a log of your filter changes can also be helpful if you sell the vehicle, as it demonstrates consistent maintenance to potential buyers .

Frequently Asked Questions

​Can I clean and reuse my old air filter?​​
While you can sometimes extend the life of an engine air filter by gently tapping it to remove loose particles or using compressed air to blow out debris, this is only a temporary measure. Cabin air filters should never be cleaned and reused, as moisture can promote mold growth, and cleaning won't restore the filter's full efficiency. Replacement is always the best option for optimal performance and air quality .

​Do I need any special tools to replace the air filters?​​
For the engine air filter, you might need a screwdriver to open the housing, though many models use simple clips that can be opened by hand. The cabin air filter replacement typically requires no tools at all, as the glove box tabs can usually be manipulated by hand, and the filter cover is often secured with simple clips .

​What happens if I don't replace my air filters?​​
Neglecting the engine air filter can lead to reduced fuel efficiency, loss of power, and potentially costly engine damage over time. A clogged cabin air filter will result in poor HVAC performance, reduced air quality inside the vehicle, and potentially strain the blower motor. In both cases, regular replacement is far more economical than addressing the problems caused by neglect .

​Can I replace the filters myself even if I have no mechanical experience?​​
Yes, both air filter replacements are considered basic maintenance tasks suitable for beginners. The cabin air filter replacement is particularly straightforward and can be completed in 10-15 minutes with no prior experience. The engine air filter is also simple to replace, though it requires working in the engine bay, which might intimidate some first-timers. Both procedures are well-documented and hard to get wrong if you follow the instructions carefully .

Regular attention to your 2020 Honda CR-V's air filters is a small investment that pays significant dividends in vehicle performance, fuel efficiency, and cabin comfort. Whether you choose to replace them yourself or have a professional handle the task, maintaining a proper schedule ensures your CR-V continues to provide the reliable transportation you expect.