2 maintenance issues

[MadMax]

Originally Posted by k r a y z e e . j o j o

2. Mine doesn't have a cabin air filter, I checked today. I did my research and found mixed feelings about it not being installed in the first place. Some say it keeps the fan motor from overheating. Others say it was a manufacturers mistake and it should be there to keep pollen and dust out of the cabin. So what's the right answer? Do I or don't I need a filter?

I think the myth that putting a filter in will cause problems is complete BS. For one, it is a paper filter and no different that the type used in numerous HVAC systems. The rumor that it causes any extra strain on the fan motor is bunk. Someone posted this in a previous thread on the cabin filter, and I think it is right on target...

Toyota did not include the A/C filter because the filter frame will not fit due to the position of the blower. Toyota believed that if the filter frame could not fit, then the filter could not be installed properly. The frame and filter are an assembly unit. So, they just left it out! It's that simple as far as Toyota was concerned.

Unfortunately, the owners manual refers to the A/C cabin filter probably because it should definitely be standard equipment and it was assumed it would be... only later to discover the filter frame wouldn't fit. More unfortunately, the dealers know absolutely nothing about this situation and are totally in the dark when confronted with it. Seems to be a breakdown in communication at several levels.

I only discovered that the car had no filter when something from my glove box got sucked into the blower and began making all kinds of noise. Other yarisworld members have had the same experience. Indeed, it is a problem!

Thankfully, we at Yarisworld have found that a filter will in fact fit (with a bit of gentle massaging) and function quite well without the filter frame. It's a quick, easy, and inexpensive install.

At this point, we've learned that a Purolator filter #C38188 and Bosch filter #P3750 will fit adequately right out of the box.

My apologies to the author for not remembering who you were, but that was great information.

If you live in a dusty climate, as we do here in southcentral Texas, the cabin filter is an excellent addition if you don't have one. We not only have a lot of dust but allergians (mostly mountain cedar) which a filter will capture. I grabbed a Purolator and it went in with a little manipulation. It wasn't that hard. I have only had the car for a few months, so I don't know how much it has captured so far; but I plan to replace it at the six-month point and I am sure it will show signs of keeping unwanted particles, dust and other elements out of the car.

For such an inexpensive solution, I don't know why anyone wouldn't do it.

Cheers! M2