I am getting a warning at startup to change the A/C filter (15500 miles, 14 months since purchase).

Is this something I can do myself like in my old LS430? Where can I get the filter? Does it REALLY need to be changed or can I just wash out the old sponge filter? And how does the car "sense" this need? And does the warning sensor need to be reset after?

 

No, you can't wash out the filter. Yes, you have to re set it after you change the filter. You can order one from irontoad.com. I haven't changed mine yet, but I'm sure it's as easy as my LS 430 was. I'm sure the manual will tell you how to re set the light. I did it on my LS 430. You can look at it and see if you think it's dirty. It's part of the 10,000 mile serivce.

Craig

 

Daryll, Rorich Lexus should have done this for you. I never got this message.

 

Yeah, I guess they should have. Kinda proves what I always suspected...that most of these expensive services are just glorified nothings. I'll order the filter, do it myself and let it go. But I do avoid the dealer and will continue to do so.

 

Irontoad says the part is $48. ????? I seem to remember that my old LS430 part was 10 to 15 bucks. Is $48 right? And does it need to be replaced so often (I only have 15K miles)?

 

Cabin Air Filter - Part Number: 97139-50060.
Search online for best price -- around $20.00
Make sure your system is on "recirculate" (not outside air) before replacing
See attached instructions:

 

Thanks for those CLEAR instructions. I took out the filter and vacuumed it. It really doesn't look bad. But I'll order a new filter. Any suggestions as to where to search online for $20?

Also, how do you reset the sensor that tells me to replace the air filter?

 

thanks for the posts on instructions as well!....i've heard of people making their own filter for even less on the Sienna boards...probably get better filtration for even less!...i think they use a 3M 1700 micron filter?

 

Just "Google" the Part number above.
Check "Info\Maintenance" for resetting reminders.

Good Luck

 

It's not clear to me. Are you saying that the cabin filter warning light is an arbitrary thing that just comes on around 15000 miles? Or is there a specific sensor? And to reset it are you really resetting a sensor or is it just some internal clock that needs to be reset thru the menu? More specific instructions on the function and resetting of the cabin warning light would be appreciated.

 

The same menu that monitors the intervals for service, oil changes, tire rotations and the like, also can be set "arbitrarily" for the air filter intervals. If you think your filter can last longer based on your individual inspection and/or application, then you may opt to set a longer period. There is no sensor applied to the cabin air filter. According to what I've read, the filter itself is supposed to include a deodorizer, although I certainly cannot detect any such from my experience. That could explain price variations, although that is idle speculation on my part.