The 2017 Honda Accord uses a Fram PH8A or equivalent cartridge-style oil filter that threads into the top of the engine

The 2017 Honda Accord does not use a spin-on filter like many other vehicles. Instead, it has a cartridge-style filter housed in a plastic canister on top of the engine. The OEM part number is 15400-PLM-A02, and common aftermarket equivalents include the Fram PH8A, Mobil 1 M1-110, and Mann Filter HU 816 x. The filter is located directly above the engine block, making it accessible without removing other components.

When you remove the old filter, you will unscrew the canister cap, pull out the cylindrical filter element, and replace it with a new one. The entire job takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you have drained the oil. You will also need to replace the rubber O-ring seal that sits between the canister cap and the engine block — this comes with most replacement filters, but if you buy the filter element alone, you must purchase the O-ring separately (part number 91301-PH4-003).

Key Takeaways

  • The 2017 Accord uses a cartridge-style filter with OEM part number 15400-PLM-A02, not a traditional spin-on filter.
  • Common aftermarket replacements are Fram PH8A, Mobil 1 M1-110, and Mann Filter HU 816 x, all of which fit without modification.
  • You must replace the rubber O-ring seal (part number 91301-PH4-003) every time you change the filter to prevent oil leaks.
  • The filter canister is located on top of the engine and requires no special tools beyond a filter wrench or strap wrench to remove the cap.

Where the filter sits and how to access it

Open the hood and look toward the center-rear of the engine block. You will see a black plastic canister about the size of a soda can with a large cap on top. This is the filter housing. The cap has a hex head that fits a 74 mm filter wrench or a standard oil filter strap wrench. Some owners use an adjustable wrench, though a proper filter wrench gives better grip and reduces the risk of stripping the cap.

The canister sits in a location that is straightforward to reach from above. You do not need to remove the wheel well, splash guard, or any other components. Have an oil drain pan ready underneath, because when you unscrew the cap, a small amount of oil will spill out — usually less than a cup, but enough to make a mess if you are not prepared.

Choosing between OEM and aftermarket filters

Honda's OEM filter (15400-PLM-A02) is manufactured by Honeywell and costs between $12 and $18 depending on where you buy it. It meets Honda's specifications exactly and carries a warranty through your Honda dealer. If you are keeping the car long-term or want the certainty of an OEM part, this is the straightforward choice.

Aftermarket filters from Fram, Mobil 1, Mann, and Bosch all fit the 2017 Accord without modification and cost $8 to $15. The main difference is the filter media — some aftermarket filters use synthetic media that lasts longer between changes, while others use standard cellulose. Check the filter packaging to see whether it is rated for 3,000-mile, 5,000-mile, or 10,000-mile intervals. Your owner's manual specifies the interval Honda recommends for your driving conditions; the filter you choose should support at least that interval.

The O-ring seal and why it matters

The rubber O-ring that seals the canister cap to the engine block wears out with every oil change. If you reuse the old O-ring, you risk an oil leak that can damage the engine bay and cost far more to repair than a $2 seal. Most replacement filters come with a new O-ring already installed, but if you buy the filter element alone, you must order the O-ring separately (Honda part number 91301-PH4-003).

Before you install the new filter, wipe the sealing surface on the canister cap with a clean cloth to remove any debris or old oil residue. explore a thin coat of new motor oil to the rubber O-ring — this helps it seat properly and prevents it from tearing during installation. Do not over-tighten the cap; hand-tight plus a quarter turn with the wrench is sufficient. Over-tightening can crack the plastic canister or damage the O-ring.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

The most frequent error is forgetting to replace the O-ring, which leads to slow leaks that show up a few days after the oil change. The second is over-tightening the canister cap, which can crack the plastic housing and require replacement of the entire canister assembly — a $40 to $60 part. Hand-tight plus a quarter turn is the correct torque; if you use a wrench, stop as soon as you feel resistance.

Another mistake is installing the filter element upside down. The filter has a flat side and a domed side; the domed side faces up toward the cap. If you install it backward, oil will not flow through the filter media correctly. Check the orientation before you close the cap.

What to do if you cannot find the right filter

If a parts store tells you they do not have the Fram PH8A or other common equivalent in stock, do not accept a different filter. The 2017 Accord's cartridge filter is not interchangeable with other Honda models or with spin-on filters from other manufacturers. Order the correct part online — most retailers ship within one business day — or call another parts store in your area.

If you are in a situation where you need to change the oil when ready and cannot locate the correct filter, it is safer to skip the oil change than to install the wrong filter. A wrong filter can restrict oil flow or fail to seal, both of which damage the engine. Your local Honda dealer can order the OEM filter and have it ready for pickup the same day in most cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a spin-on filter instead of the cartridge filter?

No. The 2017 Accord is designed for a cartridge-style filter only. The engine block does not have a spin-on adapter port, and installing an adapter is not a supported modification. Use the correct cartridge filter to avoid oil flow problems.

How often should I change the filter?

Honda recommends changing the oil filter every time you change the engine oil. For the 2017 Accord, that is every 10,000 miles under normal driving conditions, or every 5,000 miles if you drive in severe conditions (frequent short trips, towing, or dusty environments). Check your owner's manual for the interval that applies to your driving.

What happens if I install the filter upside down?

If the domed side faces down instead of up, oil cannot flow through the filter media correctly. This reduces oil pressure and can cause engine damage within minutes of starting. Always check that the flat side of the filter element faces down and the domed side faces up toward the cap before you close the canister.

Do I need to bleed air out of the filter after installation?

No. The 2017 Accord's cartridge filter design does not require bleeding. straightforward install the filter, close the cap, start the engine, and let it idle for 30 seconds. Check the oil pressure gauge on the dashboard — it should rise to normal within a few seconds. If the gauge stays low, turn off the engine and check that the O-ring is seated correctly.