Air Conditioning Filter

To those who do not read the manual. (LIKE ME) I just discovered my 06
Sonata LX has an a/c filter...DAMN it was filthy, I'd say it was almost
clogged. I'll buy a home filter and cut it to size. Dealer wants way too
much for a paper filter.

 

How much does the dealer want for just the part? Advanced Auto lists it for
$12. I've not bought one yet, but I'm due too.

The dealer will install one as a "special" and the ad states "starting at
$69". Dealers have to make a profit, but that seems steep to me.

 

Agree with Ed. While many do not like Fram filters, this is a perfect
application for a Fram-like filter. And most auto parts stores either have
them or can get them, and for significantly less money.

Here is one case where I cannot possibly see any benefit in spending more
money for the dealer item.

 

If you're talking about a "cabin filter", I checked the one on my 2003
Toyota Avalon (with some difficulty, since it resides behind the glove
compartment) and found it almost pristine after four years, so I merely
washed in in detergent and warm water, let it dry and stuck it back in
place. The Toyota dealer near me wants an arm and a leg ...about 60 bucks
as I recall...to replace it.

 

Yes it's a cabin filter, located behind the glove box and above the fan.
Mine was full of leaves, dirt, grass, etc.

 

REPLY: Agree. I get the thick trim to size filter media on a sheet and
it works good. Before you slide the new filter back in, clean the
Evaporator surface with a soft brush which is readily accessible and
spray it with vinegar to cut down on foul smells that originate. The
vinegar smell dissapates soon.