Considering how relatively inexpensive they are and how easy to install they are in a Honda Pilot, it's hard to imagine why the engine air filter is one of the most overlooked maintenance components in most vehicles. You don't need to get the fancy, expensive kind if you just want to allow clean air to your engine and optimize your fuel efficiency. The owner's manual to your Pilot will display the recommendations and under what type of conditions to regularly replace the air filter, and it's very quick and easy to do yourself.
Release the hood latch of the Honda Pilot with the engine off.
Lift up on the hood safety latch located under the hood in the center and lift the hood. Support the hood by the prop rod located on the fender rail unless it has self-supporting hood struts.
Locate the air box. It's on the driver's side of the vehicle to the right of the battery if you're in front of the vehicle facing it.
Open the air box top. Some of the older models may have fixed bolts holding down the air box top that can be loosened with an 8 millimeter socket, an extension, and a ratchet. Some of the newer Pilots have metal clips that simply unclip to release and open.
Remove the old air filter.
Insert the new filter. It will only fit in one way because of the cut corner on one side.
Fasten the air box top and ensure it is secure and properly fastened.
Remove any tools and the old filter, and close the hood.
