Your 2015 Honda Accord Engine Air Filter: A Complete Guide to Replacement, Benefits, and Maintenance​

Replacing the engine air filter in your 2015 Honda Accord is one of the simplest, most cost-effective maintenance tasks you can perform to protect your vehicle's engine, improve fuel economy, and maintain optimal performance. This essential component, which cleans the air flowing into your engine, should be inspected regularly and replaced approximately every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions. Neglecting it can lead to reduced gas mileage, loss of power, and potential long-term engine damage. This comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know about the 2015 Honda Accord engine air filter, from its critical function and the signs of a clogged filter to a detailed, step-by-step walkthrough of locating, inspecting, and replacing it yourself in under 10 minutes, saving you time and money.

​The Critical Role of the Engine Air Filter​

Before delving into the "how-to," it is vital to understand the "why." Your Honda Accord's engine is a sophisticated air pump. For it to generate power through combustion, it requires a precise mixture of fuel and air. The engine air filter's sole job is to ensure that the air entering the engine is as clean as possible.

Air contains countless contaminants like dust, dirt, pollen, sand, and other particulate matter. If this unfiltered air were allowed to enter the engine's cylinders, it would act as an abrasive, causing premature wear to critical and expensive components like the cylinder walls, pistons, and piston rings. This contamination can also foul spark plugs and sensors. The engine air filter is the primary defense against this internal damage. A clean filter allows for a smooth, unrestricted flow of air, which is essential for efficient combustion. When the filter becomes clogged with debris, it chokes the engine, disrupting the delicate air-fuel balance and leading to a host of performance issues. Essentially, this inexpensive part acts as a guardian for your engine's health.

​Signs Your 2015 Honda Accord Needs a New Air Filter​

Recognizing the symptoms of a dirty air filter can help you address the problem before it leads to more significant issues. While some signs are subtle, others are more pronounced. Here are the most common indicators that your Accord's air filter requires attention:

• ​Reduced Fuel Economy:​​ A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to work harder to draw in the air it needs. This inefficiency causes the engine control unit (ECU) to compensate by injecting more fuel, leading to a noticeable drop in miles per gallon. If you find yourself filling up the tank more often than usual, a dirty air filter is a likely culprit.
• ​Lack of Acceleration and Power:​​ You may experience a sluggish feeling when you press the accelerator, especially during overtaking or climbing hills. The engine feels lethargic and unresponsive because it is being starved of the oxygen necessary for powerful combustion.
• ​The Engine Runs Rough or Misfires:​​ In severe cases, a heavily restricted airflow can cause the engine to run roughly at idle or even misfire. This happens because the air-fuel mixture becomes too "rich" (too much fuel, not enough air), disrupting the combustion process.
• ​Unusual Engine Sounds:​​ While a modern engine like the Accord's 2.4-liter or 3.5-liter V6 is relatively quiet, you might hear unusual sounds if the filter is dirty. A coughing or popping sound from the engine or a whistling noise as the engine struggles to suck air through the clogged filter can be warning signs.
• ​The Check Engine Light Illuminates:​​ A severely restricted airflow can trigger your Accord's check engine light. The Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor, which measures the volume of air entering the engine, may send incorrect data to the ECU, potentially triggering a trouble code. While many issues can cause the light to come on, a dirty air filter is a simple and cheap thing to check first.
• ​Black Smoke from the Exhaust:​​ An overly rich air-fuel mixture, caused by insufficient air, can lead to unburned fuel exiting the engine. This fuel may ignite in the hot exhaust system, producing black smoke.
• ​A Visually Dirty Filter:​​ The most straightforward sign is the filter's appearance. If you remove the air filter and hold it up to a bright light, you should be able to see light passing through the filter material. If it looks caked with dirt, debris, or insects, or if the pleats are darkened, it's time for a replacement.

​How Often to Replace the 2015 Honda Accord Engine Air Filter​

Honda's official maintenance minder system does not have a specific code exclusively for the air filter. However, general automotive best practice and most owner's manuals suggest inspecting the air filter at every oil change (around 7,500 miles) and replacing it every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. The exact interval is highly dependent on your driving environment.

​You should replace the air filter more frequently if you regularly drive in the following conditions:​​

• ​Dusty or Sandy Areas:​​ Driving on dirt or gravel roads.
• ​Agricultural Regions:​​ Areas with high levels of pollen or crop dust.
• ​Heavy Traffic with Frequent Stop-and-Go:​​ This can put extra strain on the engine.
• ​Urban Environments with High Pollution Levels.​​

A quick visual inspection during an oil change is the best way to determine if a replacement is needed. It is a simple and inexpensive part, so when in doubt, it is better to replace it.

​Choosing the Right Replacement Air Filter for Your 2015 Honda Accord​

Not all air filters are created equal. Selecting the correct filter is crucial for maintaining your engine's performance and longevity. The 2015 Accord primarily uses two engine sizes: the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and the 3.5-liter V6. While the part number may differ, the replacement process is nearly identical.

There are three main types of engine air filters to consider:

1. ​OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) Filters:​​ These are filters made by Honda or its suppliers. They are designed specifically for your Accord and guarantee a perfect fit and filtration efficiency that meets Honda's exact standards. You can purchase them from a Honda dealership parts department. The ​Honda part number for a 2015 Accord 4-cylinder air filter is typically 17220-5B2-A00, and for the V6, it is ​17220-R60-A01. Always confirm the part number with your VIN or at the parts counter.
2. ​Standard Aftermarket Filters:​​ Brands like FRAM, Bosch, Purolator, and STP make high-quality replacement filters that often meet or exceed OEM specifications. They are widely available at auto parts stores and online retailers, usually at a lower cost than OEM filters. They are an excellent choice for most drivers.
3. ​High-Performance Air Filters:​​ Companies like K&N and aFe offer reusable, high-flow air filters. These are typically made of cotton gauze and are designed to increase airflow for a slight horsepower gain. They require a special cleaning kit and are more expensive upfront. For the average driver, the performance gain is negligible, and the maintenance is more involved.

For most 2015 Accord owners, a high-quality standard aftermarket filter provides the best balance of performance, protection, and value. ​Always ensure the filter you purchase is listed as compatible with the 2015 Honda Accord and your specific engine size.​​

​Tools and Parts Needed for the Replacement​

One of the best aspects of this job is its simplicity. You only need a few basic items:

• ​A New Engine Air Filter:​​ The most important part.
• ​A Clean Rag or Shop Towel:​​ For wiping out the air filter housing.
• ​A Flashlight (Optional):​​ To help you see inside the engine bay.

That's it. No specialized tools are required for the 2015 Accord, as the air filter housing is secured by metal or plastic clips that can be opened by hand.

​Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2015 Honda Accord's Engine Air Filter​

Follow these detailed instructions to replace the filter safely and correctly. The entire process should take less than 10 minutes.

1. ​Park on a Level Surface and Prepare:​​ Park your Accord on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake. Pop the hood using the release lever inside the car, usually located on the driver's side footwell. Go to the front of the car, locate the secondary hood release under the center of the hood, and open it fully. Secure the hood with the prop rod.

2. ​Locate the Air Filter Box:​​ The air filter is housed in a black plastic box located on the driver's side of the engine bay. It is a large, rectangular or square-shaped container with a large intake hose connected to it.

3. ​Open the Air Filter Housing:​​ The box is sealed by metal spring clips on the front and sometimes the side. To open it, simply ​release the clips by pressing them outward or pulling them up. They should unlatch easily. Some models may have a single clip on top. Once the clips are released, you can lift the top half of the air filter box. It may be held in place by tabs, so you might need to lift the top section upward and toward you.

4. ​Remove the Old Air Filter:​​ Carefully lift the old, dirty air filter straight out of the lower half of the housing. Take a moment to note its orientation; the new filter must be installed facing the same way.

5. ​Clean the Air Filter Housing:​​ Before installing the new filter, use your clean rag or shop towel to wipe out the inside of the lower half of the air filter box. Remove any leaves, debris, or dirt that may have accumulated. ​Be careful not to drop any debris into the large intake tube that leads to the engine, as this could cause immediate damage.

6. ​Install the New Air Filter:​​ Take the new filter out of its packaging. Place it into the lower housing, ensuring it sits flush and level. The rubber sealing gasket around the edge of the filter must create a perfect seal against the housing. Make sure it is seated correctly and that the orientation matches the old filter.

7. ​Close and Secure the Housing:​​ Lower the top half of the air filter box back onto the bottom half. Press down firmly around the edges to ensure a good seal. ​Re-engage the metal clips by pressing them firmly back into the locked position.​​ You should hear a distinct "click" when they are secure. Give the box a gentle tug to confirm it is closed properly.

8. ​Final Check and Close the Hood:​​ Do a quick visual check to make sure you haven't left any tools or rags in the engine bay. Lower the hood and press down firmly until the latch engages.

You have now successfully replaced your engine air filter. Start the car—it should run smoothly. You might even notice a slight improvement in throttle response immediately.

​Common Mistakes to Avoid​

• ​Forcing the Clips:​​ The housing clips are designed to be opened by hand. Do not use a screwdriver or pliers to pry them open, as this can break them.
• ​Incorrect Filter Orientation:​​ Installing the filter upside down or crooked can allow unfiltered air to bypass the filter, defeating its purpose entirely.
• ​Not Cleaning the Housing:​​ Installing a clean filter into a dirty housing will cause it to clog much faster.
• ​Not Securing the Clips Properly:​​ A housing that is not fully sealed will let dirty air in, causing the same damage as having no filter at all.

​The Cost-Benefit Analysis: DIY vs. Professional Service​

This is where the DIY approach shines tremendously. A high-quality aftermarket air filter for a 2015 Honda Accord typically costs between ​​$15and$25. If you were to have a dealership or mechanic replace it, the total cost, including parts and labor, could easily range from ​​$50to$100 or more.

By spending 10 minutes of your time, you can save a significant amount of money. This simple task also empowers you to learn more about your vehicle and take control of its maintenance. There is no need for specialized tools or advanced mechanical knowledge.

​Conclusion​

Maintaining the engine air filter in your 2015 Honda Accord is not just a recommended service item; it is a fundamental aspect of responsible car ownership. This small, inexpensive component plays an outsized role in ensuring your engine runs efficiently, powerfully, and for many miles to come. The replacement process is straightforward, quick, and requires no special tools, making it an ideal first DIY project for any car owner. By following this guide, you can confidently inspect and change your air filter, saving money and gaining the satisfaction of maintaining your vehicle yourself. Regular attention to this simple part is a direct investment in the long-term health and value of your Honda Accord. Make it a habit to check the filter with every oil change, and your Accord will reward you with reliable performance for years to come.