Honda Accord 2017 Air Filter: The Complete Owner's Guide to Maintenance, Replacement, and Performance​

Maintaining or replacing the air filter in your 2017 Honda Accord is a straightforward yet critical task that directly impacts engine health, fuel economy, and overall vehicle performance. This comprehensive guide provides all necessary information, from identifying the correct part to executing a proper replacement, ensuring your Accord runs efficiently for years to come. By following detailed, step-by-step instructions and adhering to recommended maintenance schedules, owners can save money on service costs and prevent potential engine issues.

​Understanding the Air Filter's Role in Your 2017 Honda Accord​
The engine air filter in your 2017 Honda Accord is a component designed to clean the air entering the engine's combustion chambers. It is typically housed in a black plastic box located in the engine compartment. As the engine operates, it draws in a significant volume of air. This incoming air contains various contaminants, including dust, pollen, dirt, debris, and other particulate matter. The primary function of the air filter is to trap these contaminants before they can enter the engine's internal components. The air filter is constructed from pleated paper or a similar fibrous material, which provides a large surface area for filtration while allowing for adequate airflow. The design of the filter media is precise, balancing filtration efficiency with the engine's demand for oxygen. In the 2017 Accord, the engine relies on a precise mixture of air and fuel for optimal combustion. Clean air is a fundamental requirement for this process. A clean, unobstructed air filter ensures that the engine receives a steady flow of clean air, which allows the engine control unit to manage fuel injection accurately. This leads to complete combustion, where fuel is burned thoroughly and efficiently. Complete combustion maximizes the energy extracted from the fuel, which translates directly into engine power and responsiveness. Furthermore, it minimizes the production of unburned hydrocarbons and other emissions, helping the vehicle meet environmental standards. The state of the air filter is, therefore, not a minor detail but a key factor in the engine's operational integrity. Over time and with use, the filter media becomes clogged with the particles it has successfully captured. This accumulation restricts the volume of air that can pass through the filter and into the engine. This restriction is the root cause of numerous performance issues. A restricted airflow forces the engine to work harder to draw in the air it needs. This condition is often described as the engine "starving" for air. The engine control unit may attempt to compensate, but the underlying air deficiency disrupts the air-fuel ratio. The mixture can become too rich, meaning there is an excess of fuel relative to the available air. This rich mixture leads to inefficient combustion. Fuel that is not completely burned is wasted, passing through the exhaust system. This waste is observed as a decrease in miles per gallon. Drivers may notice a gradual or sudden drop in fuel economy, requiring more frequent visits to the gas station. The performance impact is also tangible. Acceleration may feel sluggish, as the engine cannot generate its full power output. The vehicle might hesitate or stumble during acceleration, especially under load such as when climbing a hill or merging onto a highway. In some cases, a severely dirty air filter can cause rough idling, where the engine runs unevenly while the vehicle is stationary. In modern engines with sophisticated sensors, a clogged filter can sometimes trigger a check engine light, as the engine management system detects anomalies in airflow or combustion. The consequences extend beyond immediate performance. Incomplete combustion can lead to carbon deposits forming on spark plugs, fuel injectors, and within the combustion chambers themselves. These deposits can further degrade performance and, over a long period, contribute to increased wear. The engine may also experience higher operating temperatures under strain. While a dirty air filter alone is unlikely to cause catastrophic engine failure immediately, it places undue stress on the engine components, potentially shortening their service life. Therefore, the air filter serves as a first line of defense for the engine. Its maintenance is a proactive measure. For the 2017 Honda Accord, a vehicle renowned for its reliability and efficiency, preserving this efficiency is paramount. Recognizing the direct link between a simple filter and complex engine outcomes is the first step in responsible vehicle ownership. The filter's condition influences fuel costs, emissions output, driving enjoyment, and long-term repair expenses. It is a consumable part, meant to be replaced at intervals, not a permanent component. Understanding this role frames all subsequent actions, from inspection to replacement, as essential rather than optional maintenance.

​Specifics of the 2017 Honda Accord Air Filter System​
The 2017 Honda Accord was available with two primary engine options: a 2.4-liter inline-4 cylinder engine and a 3.5-liter V6 engine. The air filter for each engine is specific to that engine's air intake system design. While the core function is identical, the physical dimensions, part numbers, and the exact location of the air filter housing can differ. It is crucial for owners to identify their engine type before procuring a replacement filter. The housing for the air filter is a rectangular or square black plastic box. It is usually located on one side of the engine bay, often near the front of the vehicle, and is connected to a large intake duct. The housing is sealed with a series of metal or plastic clips, or sometimes screws, that secure the top cover to the base. The design is generally user-friendly, intended to allow for service without specialized tools. The air filter itself rests inside this housing. For the 2017 model year, Honda specifies certain part numbers for genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) filters. For example, a common part number for the 2.4L engine is 17220-R60-A01, and for the 3.5L V6, it might be 17220-R70-A01. These numbers are important when ordering a replacement to ensure a perfect fit. The fit is non-negotiable. An incorrectly sized or shaped filter can fail to seal properly within the housing. A poor seal allows unfiltered air to bypass the filter media entirely, flowing through gaps between the filter edge and the housing. This is known as air bypass. When bypass occurs, all the contaminants that the filter is meant to block are sucked directly into the engine. This defeats the entire purpose of the filter and can cause accelerated wear on engine components. Therefore, using the correct filter designed for the 2017 Accord's specific engine is critical. Aftermarket filters are widely available and can be a cost-effective alternative. Reputable aftermarket brands manufacture filters to meet or exceed OEM specifications. When selecting an aftermarket filter, owners should verify compatibility with the 2017 Honda Accord and the specific engine. Many product listings and retail websites have vehicle compatibility checkers where you can input your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine to find the correct part. It is advisable to choose brands with a strong reputation in the automotive filter market. Beyond fit, filter media can vary. Standard paper filters are common and effective. There are also high-performance options, such as cotton gauze filters, which are often reusable and require cleaning and re-oiling. For most daily driving, a high-quality paper filter is perfectly adequate and recommended for its consistent filtration and ease of replacement. The cabin air filter, which filters air entering the passenger compartment, is a separate component entirely and is not covered in this engine air filter guide. This article focuses solely on the engine air filter. The system is designed for easy access, aligning with Honda's philosophy of owner-accessible maintenance. Knowing these specifics—your engine type, the correct part number, and the housing design—empowers you to proceed with confidence. It eliminates guesswork and ensures that any maintenance performed will be correct and beneficial for the vehicle.

​When to Inspect and Replace the 2017 Accord Air Filter​
Honda provides a recommended maintenance schedule for the 2017 Accord, which is outlined in the vehicle's owner's manual. For the engine air filter, the general guideline is to inspect it at regular service intervals, typically every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, and replace it as needed. However, this is a general guideline and the actual replacement interval can vary significantly based on driving conditions. Driving environment is the primary factor determining air filter life. Vehicles driven primarily in areas with clean air, paved roads, and light traffic may allow the filter to last closer to the upper end of the recommended range, or even longer. Conversely, operating the vehicle in severe conditions will necessitate more frequent inspections and likely earlier replacement. Severe driving conditions include, but are not limited to, frequent travel on dusty, unpaved, or gravel roads; regular driving in areas with high pollen or air pollution; extensive idling in stop-and-go traffic; and operation in regions where there is significant road salt or industrial fallout. In these environments, the air filter accumulates debris at a much faster rate. Relying solely on the mileage interval is not sufficient. A visual inspection is the most reliable method to determine the condition of the air filter. It is a simple process that owners can perform themselves. The inspection should be conducted every 12 months or 12,000 miles as a good practice, and more often if you drive in severe conditions. To inspect the filter, first ensure the engine is off and has cooled down. Locate the air filter housing in the engine bay. Release the retaining clips or remove the screws securing the top cover of the housing. Carefully lift the cover off. You will see the air filter seated in the lower half of the housing. Gently lift the filter out. Hold the filter up to a bright light source, such as the sun or a strong flashlight. Look through the pleats of the filter media. A new or clean filter will appear as a bright, off-white or light color, and you will be able to see light passing easily through the material. As the filter becomes dirty, the material will darken with accumulated dirt and debris. The pleats may be packed with a layer of grime. If you cannot see light passing through a significant portion of the filter media, it is clogged and needs replacement. Another clear sign is visible debris, caked-on dirt, or organic matter like leaves or insects on the surface. Physical damage is also a reason for replacement. Check for any tears, holes, or cracks in the filter media, or for a damaged or collapsed rubber sealing gasket around the edge. Even a small breach can allow unfiltered air to enter. If the filter is damp or oily, it should be replaced, as moisture can impede airflow and promote microbial growth. Performance symptoms, as mentioned earlier, can also indicate a filter past its service life. A noticeable drop in fuel economy, reduced acceleration power, or a rougher idle are practical signals that an inspection is overdue. Do not attempt to clean a paper air filter by tapping it or using compressed air. These methods can damage the delicate filter media, creating micro-tears that allow particles to pass, and they rarely restore adequate performance. Paper air filters are designed as disposable items. The inspection process is quick, taking only a few minutes, and provides definitive evidence of the filter's state. Adhering to a routine of periodic visual checks, combined with attention to driving conditions and vehicle performance, is the best strategy for determining the optimal replacement time for your 2017 Honda Accord's air filter, ensuring the engine is always protected.

​Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Air Filter in a 2017 Honda Accord​
Replacing the engine air filter in a 2017 Honda Accord is a simple task that requires minimal tools and can be completed in about 10 to 15 minutes. This process applies to both the 2.4L and 3.5L engine variants, as the housing design is similar. Always work on a cool engine in a well-ventilated area. The following instructions provide a detailed, safe procedure.

​Tools and Materials Required:​​

• A new, correct air filter for your 2017 Honda Accord (verify engine type).
• A clean rag or shop towel.
• A vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment (optional, but helpful).
• A flat-head screwdriver may be needed if your housing uses screws instead of clips (most use clips).

​Procedure:​​

1. ​Park and Prepare:​​ Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Open the hood and secure it with the prop rod. Allow the engine to cool if it has been recently running.
2. ​Locate the Air Filter Housing:​​ Identify the black plastic air filter box. It is usually on the driver's side (for left-hand drive vehicles) of the engine compartment. It is a rectangular box with a large intake hose connected to it.
3. ​Open the Housing:​​ Examine how the housing is secured. Most 2017 Accord models use metal spring clips on the front and sometimes the sides of the housing. To open, simply release these clips by pulling them outward or pressing the release tab. They will swing open. Some models might have a combination of clips and screws. If there are screws, use an appropriate screwdriver to remove them. Set any screws aside in a safe place where they won't be lost.
4. ​Remove the Housing Cover:​​ Once all clips are released, carefully lift the top cover of the air filter housing. It may be connected to the intake hose. You can usually lift it and rest it to the side without disconnecting any hoses. Do not force it. If it feels stuck, check for any hidden clips or screws you might have missed.
5. ​Remove the Old Air Filter:​​ Look inside the lower half of the housing. You will see the old air filter sitting in a recess. Grip the filter firmly and pull it straight up and out. Note its orientation—which side faces up and how it is seated. The new filter will go in the same way.
6. ​Clean the Housing:​​ Before installing the new filter, take a moment to clean the inside of the air filter housing. Use a clean, dry rag or shop towel to wipe out any loose dirt, dust, or debris from the lower half of the housing. Be thorough but gentle. Do not let any debris fall into the intake tube that leads to the engine. For a more thorough clean, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to suck out any dust from the housing. Ensure no foreign objects remain inside.
7. ​Inspect the New Filter:​​ Unpack the new air filter. Compare it to the old one to confirm they are the same size and shape. Inspect the new filter for any obvious manufacturing defects, though this is rare.
8. ​Install the New Air Filter:​​ Place the new filter into the lower housing. Ensure it sits completely flat and seats properly into the recess. The rubber sealing gasket around the edge must make even contact with the housing flange. There is usually only one correct orientation. Do not force it. It should drop in easily. Make certain the filter is not crooked or misaligned.
9. ​Reinstall the Housing Cover:​​ Carefully lower the top cover back onto the housing. Align it properly so that it mates evenly with the lower half. Press down gently on the cover to ensure it is seated all the way around.
10. ​Secure the Housing:​​ Re-engage the metal spring clips. Push or snap them back into their locked position. If you removed screws, reinsert and tighten them securely, but do not overtighten, as you could strip the plastic threads. Ensure all fasteners are secured.
11. ​Final Check:​​ Visually confirm that the housing is completely closed and all clips or screws are fastened. Give the housing a gentle push to ensure it feels solid and not loose. Do not start the engine with the housing open or unsecured.
12. ​Dispose of the Old Filter:​​ Place the old air filter in a plastic bag and dispose of it according to local regulations. It is not recyclable through typical curbside recycling due to the contaminants.

Your replacement is now complete. Start the engine. It should start normally. Listen for any unusual sounds, such as a loud hissing, which could indicate the housing is not sealed properly. A test drive is not strictly necessary, but you may notice smoother idling and improved throttle response, especially if the old filter was significantly clogged. This process requires no resetting of the vehicle's computer or maintenance reminder system, as the air filter is not monitored by a sensor. Record the date and mileage of the replacement in your vehicle's maintenance log for future reference. By performing this task yourself, you gain practical knowledge of your vehicle, ensure the job is done correctly, and realize immediate cost savings compared to a dealership or service center.

​Selecting the Right Replacement Air Filter​
Choosing a replacement air filter for your 2017 Honda Accord involves more than just picking any box off the shelf. The correct filter ensures proper engine function and protection. The first and most important step is to select a filter that is explicitly listed as compatible with a 2017 Honda Accord, specifying your engine size (2.4L 4-cylinder or 3.5L V6). As previously noted, genuine Honda OEM filters are a guaranteed match. The part number is often printed on the filter frame or in your owner's manual. Using the OEM part number when searching online or at a parts store is the most accurate method. However, the aftermarket offers numerous reputable brands. Well-known filter manufacturers produce high-quality alternatives that often meet or exceed the original specifications. When evaluating an aftermarket filter, consider the brand's reputation, warranty, and customer reviews specific to Honda Accord applications. The filter's efficiency rating is a key specification. This rating indicates the percentage of particles of a certain size that the filter captures. A higher efficiency percentage is generally better, but it must be balanced with airflow. A quality filter will provide high efficiency without creating excessive restriction. The dust holding capacity indicates how much dirt the filter can hold before it becomes too restrictive. A higher capacity may allow for longer service intervals under normal conditions. For the vast majority of 2017 Accord owners, a standard, high-quality paper filter is the best and most economical choice. It provides excellent filtration for everyday driving conditions. There is also the option of high-flow or performance air filters. These are often made of cotton gauze or other woven materials and are designed to increase airflow, potentially offering a slight increase in horsepower or throttle response. However, for a stock 2017 Accord used as a daily driver, the performance gain is usually minimal and may not be perceptible. Importantly, some performance filters are reusable; they require periodic cleaning and reapplication of a special filter oil. This introduces maintenance steps and the risk of improper oiling, which can harm the engine's mass airflow sensor if excess oil is drawn in. For most owners seeking simplicity and reliability, a disposable paper filter is recommended. When purchasing, also consider the source. Buy from reputable auto parts stores, authorized Honda parts dealers, or well-established online retailers. Avoid extremely low-cost, no-name filters, as their construction and filtration efficiency may be substandard, risking engine damage. Price is a factor, but it should not be the sole deciding factor. A filter is a relatively inexpensive component that plays an outsized role in protecting a very expensive engine. Investing in a known-quality filter from a trusted brand is a prudent decision. If in doubt, consulting with a professional at a reliable auto parts store or referencing the Honda owner's manual can provide clear guidance. The goal is to restore the intake system to its designed state of operation, and the correct filter is central to achieving that goal.

​Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them​
Even in a simple task like air filter replacement, errors can occur. Being aware of common mistakes helps ensure the job is done correctly and safely. One frequent error is installing the filter incorrectly. The filter must sit perfectly flat in the housing with the sealing gasket properly seated. If the filter is crooked, tilted, or forced in, it will not seal. This allows unfiltered air to bypass the filter, rendering the replacement useless and potentially causing engine damage. Always take a moment to ensure the filter is oriented correctly and seated evenly. Another mistake is failing to clean the housing before installing the new filter. Installing a clean filter into a dirty housing immediately contaminates the new filter. Any loose debris in the housing can be drawn into the engine or can prevent the new filter from sealing properly. Always wipe out the housing with a clean, dry rag. A related error is allowing debris to fall into the intake tube that leads from the housing to the engine. When cleaning, be cautious. Cover the intake tube opening with a clean cloth if necessary, and be careful not to knock anything into it. Installing the wrong filter is a critical error. A filter that is slightly too small or the wrong shape will not seal. Never assume a filter from a different model year or a different vehicle will fit, even if it looks similar. Always double-check the part number and compatibility. Overtightening housing clips or screws is another issue. The clips on the housing are designed to snap into place with hand pressure. Forcing them can break the plastic tabs. If the housing uses screws, tighten them until they are snug. Overtightening can strip the plastic threads, making it impossible to secure the housing properly in the future. A less common but serious mistake is attempting to clean and reuse a standard paper air filter. Tapping it on the ground or blowing it with compressed air can damage the paper media. This damage creates tiny holes that allow dirt to pass through. Compressed air can also force debris deeper into the filter. Disposable paper filters are not designed for cleaning; they are designed for replacement. Ignoring the condition of the air intake duct or hose is also an oversight. While replacing the filter, visually inspect the large rubber or plastic hose that connects the air filter housing to the engine. Look for cracks, splits, or loose connections. A leak in this hose after the filter also allows unfiltered air to enter the engine. If damage is found, the hose should be replaced. Finally, neglecting to record the service is a minor but helpful oversight. Keeping a log of the replacement date and mileage helps establish a maintenance history for the vehicle and provides a reference for the next recommended inspection. By being methodical, using the correct part, and ensuring a clean, proper installation, you can avoid these common pitfalls and guarantee that your 2017 Accord benefits fully from the new air filter.

​Long-Term Maintenance and Additional Considerations​
Beyond the immediate replacement, incorporating air filter checks into your regular vehicle maintenance routine is wise. As a best practice, plan to visually inspect the air filter every time you change your engine oil, or at least every 12 months. This takes only a minute if the housing is already open for inspection and keeps you informed of its state. Consider your driving patterns honestly. If you frequently drive on dirt roads, in desert conditions, or during seasons with high pollen, plan for more frequent inspections, perhaps every 6 months or 5,000 miles. The cabin air filter, which cleans air for the passenger compartment, is a separate component located behind the glove box. While not related to engine performance, it is another important maintenance item for air quality inside the vehicle. Its replacement interval is typically different from the engine air filter, so consult your owner's manual. Performance modifications, such as aftermarket cold air intake systems, replace the entire factory air box and filter with a different setup. If you have installed or are considering such a system, be aware that it changes the maintenance procedure and intervals. These systems often use reusable filters that require regular cleaning and oiling according to the manufacturer's instructions. Using the wrong cleaning chemicals or too much oil can harm engine sensors. Stick to the kit manufacturer's guidelines. For the stock 2017 Accord system, no modifications are necessary for reliable operation. The factory design is more than adequate for normal use. Lastly, understand that while a clean air filter is vital, it is one part of a larger maintenance picture. It works in conjunction with other systems. For instance, a dirty mass airflow sensor, located in the intake hose, can also cause performance issues. If you experience persistent problems after a filter replacement, other causes should be investigated. However, for most situations, regular inspection and timely replacement of the engine air filter according to the guidelines in this article will contribute significantly to preserving the 2017 Honda Accord's renowned reliability, fuel efficiency, and driving performance for many miles. It is a small task with a large and positive impact on vehicle health and operating costs.