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How to Install an Air Filter on a 2006 to 2011 Honda Civic

The air filter on your Honda Civic helps to prevent dirt, debris, insects, and other contaminants in the air from entering your engine. Changing the air filter in your 2006-2011 Civic is the best way to prevent contaminants from harming your engine, and it should be replaced regularly according to interval in your Civic’s owner’s manual. Typically, air filters should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but if you frequently drive in dusty environments or heavy traffic where air pollution may be more prevalent, it may need to be replaced more frequently. A clogged air filter can cause a rough idle, lack of power or acceleration, or a gasoline smell when you start your Civic.

Air Filter Tools and Materials

Honda Civic Air Filter Installation Instructions

We will demonstrate how to change the air filter on this 2008 Honda Civic, but the procedure will be similar for any Civic between the years of 2006 and 2011. If you’re not completely comfortable doing this yourself, we’d be happy to recommend a professional technician in your area.
Open the hood on your Honda Civic and locate the air filter box

Step 1: Remove Your Old Air Filter

Open your hood, and locate the air filter housing.
Unclip the fasteners securing your Honda Civic air filter

Unclip the fasteners securing the cover. The cover will still be attached by a cord at the back, but it can be carefully laid over to the side.
Remove your old Honda Civic air filter

Remove the old air filter.

Do It Right: Now is a good time to make sure the inside of the air filter housing is clear of leaves and debris.

Install the new air filter in your Honda Civic

Step 2: Install Your New Air Filter

Put your new air filter in place. It will only fit into the air filter housing one way, with the tab in the back.

Do It Right: Once you’ve put it in, make sure the edges are flush with the housing.

Replace the air filter housing lid on your Honda Civic

Replace the lid, making sure that it’s in the proper orientation with the hose at the rear of the assembly and that it’s seated properly.
Clip the fasteners back in place on your Honda Civic air filter housing

Clip the fasteners back into place to secure your air filter housing, and close your hood.

Additional Resources

This video and step-by-step instructions explain how to replace the air filter in your 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, or 2011 Honda Civic with a 1.8L engine. These instructions will also be similar for select 2014 and 2015 Civics depending on submodel, including EX, EX-L, and HF models. Replacing the air filter on your Honda Civic can help protect your motor from debris and dust in the outside air, and replacing a clogged air filter can improve performance and gas mileage. Your 2006-2011 Honda Civic’s owner’s manual will specify a replacement interval, but the filter can be changed more frequently if you notice performance problems or an especially dirty filter.

The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.