Really not sure if this is an issue for anyone since I've been in plenty of dusty areas and my smog sensor for outside/recirc seems to be working fine.

I saw this on a Russian thread about cleaning one on a '05 LX.





Sensor is located in front of the radiator



The GX unit appears to look like this




EDIT: Thread from LS forum

 

Something I have done on other Lexus vehicles. Mine was not super dirty but yours may be. Helps restore original like new performance. On my old LS it was pretty filthy vs the GX.

1: Remove the 12 or so clips on the large plastic cover over the radiator and remove cover.

2 : Unplug and remove sensor. I believe the 1 bolt was 10mm

3: Use a trim tool or flathead screwdriver to open the 3 clips and clean. The filter element I wash with degreaser or dish soap. Then dry with a clean cloth. It's gentle so handle appropriately.

4 : Reassemble and you are good to go.

*Do not clean the actual round electronic sensor element with anything but MAF or electronic cleaner. Maybe 90% rubbing alcohol but if not particularly dirty I would mainly clean the case and filter element.

 

I thought about doing that as well but haven't gotten around to it. Might check it out tomorrow.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gx-...og-sensor.html

 

With it nice and clean it does detect fumes more efficiently and switch to recirculate from outside ventilation.

 

I cleaned mine this morning as well. Dish soap cleaned filter up nicely.









PN: 013650-0040

This would be on the following models:

'10-'13 base w/Comfort Plus Package or w/standalone 3 zone HVAC option

'10-'13 premium

'14-'16 base w/Comfort Package

'14-'20 Premium and Luxury

 

Yours was pretty dirty. The one on my 04 LS was about the same. Funny, the sensor looked exactly the same between my old 04 and my 14.

 

A little over 8 years worth of dirt and dust.

 

'14-'20 Premium and Luxury

I thought all `20s come with the smog sensor standard (at least v-specs have it listed)

 

Just going off brochure right now. It mentions inclusion with 3-zone HVAC but not seeing that option available on a base since 2016.




https://www.lexus.com/documents/broc...X-Brochure.pdf





According to owner's manual looks like the AUTO button is missing from recirculation button as well.

 

Thanks for the post and pictures. I didn't know this is a serviceable thing and DIY too. I will be pulling mine out today and see.

 

Lexus would probably rather spend money on an new one.

 

I pulled mine out and gave it a good cleaning with an air can. Lol. Not too dusty inside and the filter looks pretty good for 10 years of Northern CA air.
I only remembered that it switched from Refresh to Recir a couple of times but didn’t remember any difference between the air. Hope this helps a bit.

 

I think it's worth washing out the filter as well. If you off road or drive on dirt roads chances are it will collect a lot more dust. Personally, carbon monoxide / smog from other vehicles bothers me a lot so I have the sensitivity set to maximum under the settings via the head unit.

 

Yup. Gave it good wash with dish soap. I also have sensitivity set to max as well.

 

I've had mine on lots of dusty roads and it's first 3 years were in Southern California as well.