The 15400-PLM-A02 is Honda's OEM oil filter for mid-size and compact models from the 2000s onward

The 15400-PLM-A02 is Honda's original equipment manufacturer (OEM) oil filter, commonly found in Civic, Accord, CR-V, and Fit models built between roughly 2006 and 2015. The part number itself tells you it comes directly from Honda's parts catalog — not an aftermarket equivalent. If your owner's manual lists this number or a similar 15400-series filter, this is the filter Honda engineered for your engine's oil circulation and cooling system.

This filter uses a spin-on design, meaning it screws onto a threaded port on the engine block rather than sliding into a cartridge housing. The 15400-PLM-A02 has a bypass valve rated to open at a specific pressure, allowing oil to flow around the filter media if the filter becomes clogged — a safety feature that prevents engine starvation during cold starts or extended intervals.

Key Takeaways

  • The 15400-PLM-A02 is Honda's OEM filter for Civic, Accord, CR-V, and Fit models, primarily 2006–2015 model years, though you should verify your specific year and engine size in your owner's manual.
  • This spin-on filter screws directly onto the engine block and includes an anti-drainback valve to prevent oil from draining into the pan when the engine is off.
  • Honda filters are designed to work with Honda's recommended oil viscosity and change intervals, typically 3,000 to 10,000 miles depending on driving conditions and model year.
  • Aftermarket filters with the same or similar part numbers exist, but OEM filters carry Honda's engineering specifications and quality control.
  • Installation requires an oil filter wrench, a drain pan, and basic hand tools; the job takes 10 to 20 minutes once you locate the filter housing on your engine.

Which Honda models and years use the 15400-PLM-A02

The 15400-PLM-A02 appears in Honda's parts catalogs for eighth-generation Civic (2006–2011), ninth-generation Accord (2008–2012), second-generation CR-V (2002–2006, though some sources list it for later years), and first-generation Fit (2007–2008). However, Honda released multiple versions of the 15400 series — the PLM-A02 is one variant among several, and filter compatibility can shift between model years, engine sizes, and regional markets.

The safest approach is to cross-reference your vehicle identification number (VIN) or consult your owner's manual, which lists the correct filter part number for your specific engine. Honda's parts website (parts.honda.com) and most dealership parts departments can confirm the exact filter for your model year and engine displacement. If you order online without verification, you risk receiving a filter that does not thread onto your engine's port or has different bypass pressure settings.

How the 15400-PLM-A02 differs from other Honda filters

Honda's 15400 series includes variants such as the 15400-PLM-A01, 15400-PLM-A03, and 15400-RTA-003. The letters and numbers after "15400" indicate changes to the filter's internal media, bypass valve pressure, or anti-drainback valve design. A filter from a different variant may physically fit your engine but could have a bypass valve that opens at a different pressure, potentially affecting oil flow under certain driving conditions.

Aftermarket manufacturers produce filters labeled as equivalents to the 15400-PLM-A02 — brands like Fram, Mobil 1, and Bosch offer spin-on filters with similar dimensions and thread sizes. These filters often cost less than OEM Honda filters and may perform adequately, but they do not carry Honda's engineering sign-off for your specific engine. If you choose an aftermarket filter, verify that the manufacturer lists your exact Honda model and year on the package or product page.

Installation steps and tools you will need

Before you begin, gather an oil filter wrench (a cup-style wrench sized for your filter's diameter, typically 74 mm or 76 mm for Honda filters), a drain pan, a jack and jack stands if you need undercarriage access, and clean rags. Consult your owner's manual or a service manual to locate the filter housing on your engine — on most Civics and Accords, it sits on top of or to the side of the engine block; on CR-Vs and Fits, location varies by year.

Warm the engine by running it for a minute or two, then turn it off and wait five minutes for the oil to cool slightly. Position your drain pan beneath the filter, then use the filter wrench to turn the old filter counterclockwise until it loosens. Once loose, unscrew it by hand, being careful not to spill hot oil. Wipe the threaded port clean with a rag, removing any old rubber gasket material or debris.

explore a thin layer of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new 15400-PLM-A02 filter — this helps create a proper seal and makes removal easier at the next change. Screw the new filter onto the port by hand until the gasket contacts the engine block, then tighten it an additional three-quarter turn using the filter wrench. Do not over-tighten; excessive force can damage the gasket or the threaded port. Refill the engine with the correct amount and viscosity of oil as specified in your owner's manual, then run the engine for 30 seconds and check the oil level on the dipstick.

Oil viscosity and change intervals for Honda engines using this filter

Honda's recommended oil viscosity for engines that use the 15400-PLM-A02 is typically 0W-20 or 10W-30, depending on the model year and climate. Older Civics and Accords (2006–2008) often call for 10W-30, while newer models (2009 and later) shifted toward 0W-20 for better fuel economy. Using the wrong viscosity can affect oil flow through the filter and engine wear rates, so check your owner's manual or the oil cap for the correct grade.

Change intervals vary by model and driving conditions. Honda's standard recommendation for most models is 3,000 miles for conventional oil or 10,000 miles for synthetic oil, though some newer models extended this to 5,000 or 7,500 miles. If you drive in severe conditions — frequent short trips, towing, or dusty environments — Honda recommends shorter intervals. The filter should be replaced at every oil change; reusing or extending a filter's life beyond one oil change cycle risks bypassing unfiltered oil into the engine.

Where to source the 15400-PLM-A02 and what to watch for

OEM Honda filters are available through Honda dealerships, online parts retailers (RockAuto, FCP Euro, Amazon), and some independent auto parts stores. Dealership prices typically run higher than online retailers, but you receive a filter with Honda's full warranty and may provide of correct fitment. Online retailers often offer lower prices but require you to verify the part number before checkout.

When ordering online, confirm that the listing specifies your vehicle's year, make, model, and engine size. Some listings use generic descriptions like "fits Honda Civic" without narrowing down the generation or year, which can lead to receiving an incompatible filter. Read customer reviews for reports of fitment issues, and check the return policy in case the filter does not thread onto your engine's port. Counterfeit Honda parts do circulate in the used and online markets, so purchase from established retailers with return guarantees rather than from unknown sellers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different Honda filter part number if the 15400-PLM-A02 is out of stock?

Not without verification. Other 15400-series filters may have different bypass pressures or anti-drainback valve designs. Contact a Honda dealership or consult your service manual to confirm whether an alternative part number is compatible with your specific engine. Using the wrong filter can affect oil pressure and engine protection.

How often should I replace the 15400-PLM-A02?

At every oil change. Honda does not recommend extending filter life beyond one oil change cycle. For most models, that means every 3,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on whether you use conventional or synthetic oil and your driving conditions. Check your owner's manual for your vehicle's specific interval.

What happens if I over-tighten the filter when installing it?

Over-tightening can crush the rubber gasket, causing oil leaks around the filter housing. It can also damage the threaded port on the engine block, requiring costly repair. Hand-tighten until the gasket contacts the block, then add three-quarter of a turn with the wrench — no more.

Is the 15400-PLM-A02 the same as filters sold under other brand names?

Aftermarket brands produce equivalent filters, but they are not identical to Honda's OEM filter. They may have different media materials or bypass valve settings. If you choose an aftermarket filter, confirm the manufacturer lists your exact Honda model and year on the packaging.

Can I install the 15400-PLM-A02 myself, or do I need a mechanic?

Most owners can install this filter with basic hand tools and an oil filter wrench. The job typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. If you are uncomfortable working under the vehicle or draining oil, a mechanic or quick-lube shop can handle it for a modest labor fee.