Cabin air filter was a little dirty!

Here's what mine looked like. We had a massive infestation of blind mosquitoes (midges), which stink like rotting fish as they decompose. Notice all the dead bugs stuck in that filter?


I also recommend taking out the squirrel cage below the cabin air filter and checking there for dirt and debris.

Here is a link for that. Super easy just three screws.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adQ4ICkS8o4

 

Here is a Toyota TSB pdf with a little illustration for removing the cowl cover.

http://crrtraining.com/CRR2/assets/pdfs/techinfo_10.pdf

 

I just got through putting a screen on mine and cleaning it out. Thanks again TW and @Clearwater Bill for pic and tips.

 

...and I just got a Denso air filter in the mail. $12.20 delivered. Compared to old Wix.


_____Denso_______vs._______Wix______
It’s a better filter in every way. Cheaper, better paper element, better gasket, perfect fitment and the plastic frame was a bit nicer.

 

Watch out for that ever present insulation

 

flip a coin on the air filters.......cost diff ?

got your money's worth outta the cabin filter.......

 

And so the real price you pay for that dirty cabin filter is a slightly burned blower motor plug. Yesterday I noticed that I had the high fan speed only problem. Pulled the plug for the blower under the glove compartment and could see a little discoloration on the plug where it was getting hot. Used a little pick to bend the tang in the plug back to make better contact and it’s working again on all speeds.

 

Just knock that filter against your tire and stick it back in. It'll be good for at least another 10 years.

 

^^^I knew some bargain hunter would find this. Just pay shipping and I’ll even give it a tap before sending. Good for another ten years!

 

I just buy a 24"x32" hepa home air filter and cut it. I can make four 12"x14" filters. For less than $15