Maintaining your Honda lawn mower is key to its longevity and performance, and the air filter plays a crucial role. A clean, high-quality filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine, ensuring efficient combustion, optimal fuel economy, and reliable starts every time you tackle your yard work. Neglecting this simple component can lead to reduced power and costly engine repairs down the line.
With numerous aftermarket and genuine options available, selecting the right air filter can be confusing. This roundup simplifies your search by highlighting ten of the best air filters designed for various Honda mower models. From multi-packs for the diligent maintainer to performance upgrades and genuine OEM parts, you’re sure to find the perfect fit to keep your mower running smoothly for seasons to come.
The Best Honda Lawn Mower Air Filters
- HOODELL 5 Pack 17211-zl8-023 Air Filter for Honda GCV160
- HOODELL 2 Pack 17211-zl8-023 Air Filter for Honda GCV160
- AWSZH 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 Engines
- Emmawin 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter, 4 Pack for Honda HRX217
- HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda HRR216
- Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 with Fuel Filter
- HIPA HRX217 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 Walk-Behind Mower
- K&N Engine Air Filter: High Performance, Fits 1993-2009 HONDA
- MOWFILL 2 Pack Air Filter Combo for Honda GXV340 GXV390
- Honda 17211-ZL8-015 Genuine OEM HRR216 Air Filter
HOODELL 5 Pack 17211-zl8-023 Air Filter for Honda GCV160
For the mower owner who values preparedness and consistent maintenance, this five-pack from HOODELL is an excellent choice. It ensures you always have a fresh filter on hand for multiple service intervals, saving you time and ensuring your mower’s engine is always protected. The design focuses on performance with a soft gasket for a superior seal and a larger filter area to promote higher air intake.
This filter is a direct replacement for Honda part numbers 17211-zl8-023 and 17211-z8b-901, fitting a wide range of Honda GC and GCV series engines found on popular HRR216 and HRX217 mowers. Its compatibility also extends to several other brands, including Husqvarna, Craftsman, and Toro, making it a versatile option for a multi-brand garage.
HOODELL 2 Pack 17211-zl8-023 Air Filter for Honda GCV160
If a five-pack is more than you need, HOODELL offers the same high-quality filter in a convenient two-pack. This is perfect for ensuring you have one filter installed and a spare ready for the next seasonal service. You benefit from the same premium features, including the enhanced gasket design and efficient filtration media that contributes to better engine breathing and gas mileage.
Like its larger counterpart, this filter is engineered to be a direct fit for Honda GCV160, GCV190, and similar engines. It serves as a reliable aftermarket solution for keeping your Honda, Husqvarna, or Craftsman mower running at its best without the higher cost of a single OEM part.
AWSZH 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 Engines
The AWSZH five-pack stands out for its extensive compatibility list, covering a remarkable range of Honda engines and mower models. This makes it a fantastic option if you own multiple Honda-powered machines or are unsure of the exact part number crossover. The pack provides long-term value, ensuring you are stocked for several years of regular maintenance.
This filter is designed to replace numerous OEM part numbers, including 17211-Z8B-901 and 17211-ZL8-023. It fits engines from the smaller GC135 to the common GCV190, and is also compatible with certain Honda generators and tillers, offering broad utility for various Honda power equipment.
Emmawin 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter, 4 Pack for Honda HRX217
Emmawin offers a well-sized four-pack that strikes a balance between bulk buying and having a sufficient supply for routine upkeep. The filter is marketed as a professional-grade element that matches the original Honda part in dimensions and performance, guaranteeing a perfect fit and reliable operation for your mower.
This product is specifically listed as a replacement for OEM #17211-Z8B-901 and is confirmed to fit Honda HRX217, HRR216, and HRS216 series mowers with GCV160 and GCV190 engines. Its precise engineering means installation is straightforward, with no modifications required.
HOODELL GCV160 Air Filter Tune Up Kit for Honda HRR216
This HOODELL kit is the ultimate solution for a comprehensive engine service. It goes beyond just the air filter by including a spark plug and an in-line fuel filter. Replacing all three components at once is a best practice for maintaining peak engine performance, smooth starting, and fuel efficiency.
The kit is designed as a complete tune-up package for Honda mowers with GCV160 and GCV190 engines, including HRC216, HRR216, and HRX217 models. It’s a convenient way to acquire all the necessary maintenance parts in one purchase, simplifying your seasonal mower care routine.
Hipa 17211-Z8B-901 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 with Fuel Filter
Similar to the HOODELL kit, this offering from Hipa pairs a high-quality air filter with a new fuel filter. This two-part combo addresses two critical areas of engine maintenance: clean air intake and clean fuel delivery. Using both together can significantly improve engine reliability and longevity.
The air filter is a direct replacement for Honda 17211-Z8B-901, and the included fuel filter replaces Honda part #16952-Z8B-000. This bundle is specifically tailored for Honda GCV160, GCV170, and GCV190 engines, providing targeted maintenance for these common mower powerplants.
HIPA HRX217 Air Filter for Honda GCV160 Walk-Behind Mower
This two-pack from HIPA provides a reliable and affordable replacement option for a wide array of Honda walk-behind mowers. The filters are constructed to meet or exceed OEM specifications, ensuring they effectively trap dust and debris before they can enter the engine.
Compatibility is a strong point for this product, as it is listed to fit numerous Honda part numbers, including 17211-ZL8-023 and 17211-Z8B-901. It is confirmed to work with Honda HRB216, HRC216, HRR216, HRT216, and HRX217 series mowers, covering most of Honda’s popular residential lines.
K&N Engine Air Filter: High Performance, Fits 1993-2009 HONDA
For owners of Honda ATVs like the TRX300X and TRX300EX, K&N offers a high-performance air filter solution. This is not a standard paper filter; it’s a washable and reusable cotton gauze filter designed to increase airflow and engine output. It comes pre-oiled and is ready for immediate installation.
The key benefit of a K&N filter is its long-term value and performance gain. Backed by a 10-Year/Million Mile Warranty, this filter can be cleaned and re-oiled hundreds of times, eliminating the need for repeated purchases. It’s an investment for those seeking improved throttle response and horsepower from their power sports equipment.
MOWFILL 2 Pack Air Filter Combo for Honda GXV340 GXV390
This MOWFILL combo pack is essential for owners of larger Honda mowers and commercial equipment powered by GXV340 and GXV390 engines. The pack includes both the primary air filter and the pre-cleaner element, which work in tandem to provide maximum protection for these more powerful engines.
This set is a direct replacement for Honda part numbers 17211-ZF5-V01 (filter) and 17218-ZF5-V00 (pre-cleaner). It is designed to fit Honda commercial mowers like the HRC7113 and HRC7013, ensuring these hard-working machines receive the proper filtration they require for demanding conditions.
Honda 17211-ZL8-015 Genuine OEM HRR216 Air Filter
For purists who prefer to use only factory parts, the genuine Honda OEM air filter is the definitive choice. Manufactured to Honda’s exact engineering specifications, this filter guarantees a perfect fit and optimal performance for your specific mower model. Using an OEM part ensures compatibility and filtration efficiency that is certified by the manufacturer.
This specific part number, 17211-ZL8-015, is designed for certain HRR216 mower models. Choosing the genuine Honda filter provides complete peace of mind, knowing your mower is equipped with the same component it was originally built with, maintaining its integrity and performance.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Honda Lawn Mower Air Filter
When I need to get a new air filter for my Honda mower, I don’t just grab the first one I see. There are a few key things I always check to make sure I’m getting the right part for my machine and my mowing conditions. Getting this right is a simple way to keep my mower running strong for years. Let’s walk through what I look for.
First and most important is the fit. Honda mowers have specific model numbers, and the air filter needs to match that exactly. I always find the model number on my mower’s engine cover or in the manual. Using the wrong filter, even if it seems close, can let dirt into the engine, which is a problem I definitely want to avoid. A proper fit creates a perfect seal.
Next, I think about the type of filter material. The standard paper or pleated filters are great for most lawns. They trap dust and grass clippings very well. But if I’m mowing in a really dusty area or dealing with a lot of fine pollen, I consider a foam pre-filter. This is a layer that wraps around the main paper filter to catch the super fine stuff before it can clog the primary filter. For the toughest conditions, there are also oiled foam filters that are washable and reusable, which can be a good long-term value.
I also pay attention to maintenance. A paper filter is not meant to be cleaned; you just replace it when it’s dirty. A foam filter, on the other hand, you can wash, re-oil, and use again. I think about how much time I want to spend on maintenance versus just swapping in a new part. For me, having a few spare paper filters on hand for a quick change during the season is the easiest path.
Finally, I consider the brand. I stick with genuine Honda filters or reputable aftermarket brands that are known for quality. The air filter is a critical line of defense for the engine, so I don’t try to save a few dollars with a no-name part that might not filter properly. Investing in a good filter is cheap insurance for an expensive engine. Picking one of the 10 best Honda lawn mower air filters for peak performance really comes down to matching the right type and model to your specific mower and how you use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I change my Honda mower’s air filter?
I check my air filter before every major mowing session, especially if it’s been dry and dusty. For a replacement schedule, a good rule of thumb is to change a paper filter at least once per mowing season. However, if you mow in very dusty or dirty conditions, you might need to change it two or three times a year. A visual check is the best method—if it looks dirty and clogged, it’s time for a new one.
Can I clean and reuse a paper air filter?
I strongly advise against this. Paper filters are designed to be disposable. Trying to clean them by tapping or blowing compressed air can damage the delicate paper pleats, creating tiny holes that allow dirt to pass through into your engine. This can cause premature wear and tear. It’s much safer and more effective to simply replace it with a new one.
What’s the difference between a standard paper filter and a foam pre-filter?
A standard paper filter is the main workhorse that traps most of the larger particles like grass and dust. A foam pre-filter is an additional sleeve that fits over the paper filter. Its job is to catch the very fine dust and chaff that can quickly clog the paper element. Using a foam pre-filter in dusty conditions can significantly extend the life of your main paper filter, making it a smart addition for certain yards.
What happens if I run my mower without an air filter?
Please do not do this, even for a short time. Running your mower without an air filter allows unfiltered air containing dirt, dust, and debris to enter the engine. This abrasive material acts like sandpaper on the internal engine components, like the piston rings and cylinder wall. This leads to a loss of compression, reduced power, increased oil consumption, and can ultimately result in a very expensive engine failure.
My air filter looks clean. Do I still need to change it?
Even if it looks clean on the surface, it might be clogged in the pleats where you can’t see. A good test I use is to hold the filter up to a bright light. If you can’t see light passing easily through the filter material, it’s time for a replacement. A restricted air filter starves the engine of air, causing it to run too “rich” (too much fuel, not enough air), which can lead to poor performance, hard starting, and black smoke from the exhaust.
Where is the best place to buy a replacement air filter?
I usually get mine from a local Honda power equipment dealer to ensure I get the exact genuine part. You can also find them at large lawn and garden centers or online retailers. When buying online, just be extra careful to double-check the model number compatibility listed for the part to make sure it fits your specific Honda mower model for optimal performance.