Is there a way to seal the exterior air-con intake?

[pure241]

I'm taking my 2009 4 Door into the desert for a few days. Some people are advising not to use the air-con AT ALL. (Fully 100% turned off, no fan, nothing.) People who have used theirs say that the dust NEVER fully leaves.

Does anyone know where the exterior air-con intake(s) are located? And would I be able to the use the air-con on recirculate with the exterior intakes temporarily sealed without causing any damage?

I believe the interior intake is behind the glove box and has a replaceable filter. Any insight would be great. Pics would be better! Thanks.

[ezhacker1]

passenger side vent where the wipers are is where the air comes in. How will you survive with NO AC lol.

It is always advised to recirculate air when using AC anyways.

[rningonfumes]

Page 5 and 6 of this PDF for spring/shocks installs (http://www.yarisworld.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=20512&d=1237364990) will show you how to get into the vent.

I would duct tape it....maybe saran wrap it too under the duct tape.

If it is as bad as they tell you.


I don't see why you won't be able to use on recirculation. Maybe pack a couple extra air filters? By the way, our Yaris does not have a filter installed if you haven't done it already.

[Bluevitz-rs]

Use Recirculated air mode.

That's what it's for. There's a panel built into the air box that blocks outside air and recirculates it inside.

[pure241]

Thanks guys, I think I have enough info to work with. Much appreciated. The dust I'm trying to avoid is corrosive to rubber and plastics, has a particular smell to it, and it apparently gets everywhere. The best I can do is minimise exposure and detail my car when I get back. Thanks again.

[Deathegg]

Where are you going where the dust is corrosive?? Also, you said 'air-con' - just curious if you're not originally from the U.S.? Usually we say a/c or just air conditioning.

[pure241]

I'm headed to TTITD and you're right, I'm from the UK. English is English to me but certain words or terms don't always cross over. Spelling too lol: minimise vs minimize.

[tarkus]

And duct tape the dashboard control to always be in recirculate mode.

One other thing - you should look into beefing up the engine air intake filtering. Otherwise fine sand particles can get inside your engine pretty easily.

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[ezhacker1]

i can see what you mean by keeping dust away from getting into the occupant air system. Definitely tape up the passenger air intake then.