2008 Honda Accord Oil Filter Replacement | Step-by-Step DIY

The 2008 Honda Accord uses OEM filter 15400-PLM-A02 for oil changes, requiring 4.4–4.5 quarts of 5W-20 and about 30 minutes with basic tools.

Replacing the oil filter on a 2008 Honda Accord is a straightforward job that saves you the labor cost a shop would charge. With a 17 mm socket, a drain pan, and the correct OEM filter, you can finish in under an hour. Both engine options — the 2.4L four-cylinder and the 3.5L V6 — use the same OEM filter and follow nearly identical steps, so this guide works for any trim in the lineup.

Oil Filter and Engine Specs

The 2008 Accord has two distinct engines, but both share the same OEM oil filter and similar oil capacity. Here is how they compare:

The OEM filter 15400-PLM-A02 also interchanges with 15400-RTA-003 and fits many Honda models from 2000–2021, including Civic, CR-V, Pilot, and Odyssey. Priced around $7–$10 at parts retailers, it is the only filter type recommended for this engine.

Step-by-Step Replacement

Work on level ground with a cool engine. The whole job takes about 30 minutes.

1. Drain the oil. Remove the dipstick and oil fill cap. Place a drain pan under the 17 mm drain plug, loosen it with a socket, and let the oil drain completely.
2. Remove the old filter. The filter sits on the engine block. Unscrew it by hand — wrap an old belt around it for grip. If it is stuck, use a filter wrench. Make sure the old gasket does not remain on the engine surface.
3. Prepare the new filter. Coat the rubber gasket with a thin layer of fresh oil. This prevents tearing and ensures a proper seal.
4. Install the new filter. Thread it on by hand until the gasket contacts the engine surface, then tighten exactly one-half turn more. Do not use a wrench for the final turn — over-tightening can crush the housing or tear the gasket.
5. Reinstall the drain plug. Replace the crush washer, install the plug, and torque it to 29 ft-lb. If you lack a torque wrench, slightly under-tighten rather than risk cracking the oil pan.
6. Add oil. Pour in 4.4 quarts (2.4L engine) or 4.5 quarts (3.5L engine) of 5W-20. Add gradually and check the dipstick — do not empty the full jug at once.
7. Verify and reset. Start the engine and let it idle for 2 minutes. Check for leaks around the filter and drain plug. Shut off the engine, wait 5 minutes, then confirm the dipstick reads at the top mark. Reset the oil life indicator by pressing and holding the SEL/RESET button for 10 seconds until “Oil Life” flashes, then hold again for 5 seconds.

Choosing the right replacement filter matters. See our tested roundup of the best 08 Honda Accord oil filters for top-rated options that match the OEM specs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-tightening the filter. Hand-tight plus one-half turn is the rule. Using a wrench for the final turn can crush the filter housing or tear the gasket, causing a leak.
• Over-tightening the drain plug. The torque limit is 29 ft-lb. Going past it can crack the oil pan — an expensive repair. A new crush washer every change prevents leaks at lower torque.
• Leaving the old gasket stuck to the engine. The old filter’s gasket sometimes stays on the mounting surface. Installing a new filter on top of it creates a double-gasket leak that dumps oil quickly.
• Over-filling the oil. Adding more than 4.4 or 4.5 quarts can cause foaming, excess pressure, and engine damage. Always check the dipstick after the engine has idled and settled.

FAQs

What oil filter fits a 2008 Honda Accord?

The OEM filter is part number 15400-PLM-A02, which also interchanges with 15400-RTA-003. It fits both the 2.4L four-cylinder and the 3.5L V6 engines and costs roughly $6–$10 at parts retailers or online.

How much oil does a 2008 Honda Accord take with a filter change?

The 2.4L four-cylinder takes 4.4 quarts of 5W-20 with a filter change. The 3.5L V6 takes about 4.5 quarts. Always check the dipstick after adding to confirm the level is at the top mark.

Do I need special tools to replace the oil filter?

No special tools are required for the filter itself — it can be removed and installed by hand. A 17 mm socket and torque wrench are needed for the drain plug, and a filter wrench helps only if the old filter is stuck.