Updated DIY on AC cabin filter change
01-27-2007, 10:32 AM
#161
you guys should seriously consider putting some kind of scent in the filter like i did with the Q-tips. i get compliments all the time how my car smells good and they can't find the air freshener. haha one week after installing the filter and it still smells good 
01-27-2007, 03:58 PM
#162
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Originally Posted by MikePA
The first service is the engine air filter, the second service is the filter referred to in this thread.
01-27-2007, 04:23 PM
#163
Changed Filters Today...Yuck
Ok..My 03 TL-S is a CPO car..Acura Certified Used Car... I bought it with 45k on it in May.
Correct me if i'm mistaken, but under the CPO program, arent all filters supposed to be changed when car is sold?
Opened my Cabin filters and saw that they were NEVER changed in 60K.
If so, the dealer owes me $17.99!
They were SO black!
Correct me if i'm mistaken, but under the CPO program, arent all filters supposed to be changed when car is sold?
Opened my Cabin filters and saw that they were NEVER changed in 60K.
If so, the dealer owes me $17.99!
They were SO black!
01-27-2007, 04:28 PM
#164
Originally Posted by assclown
you guys should seriously consider putting some kind of scent in the filter like i did with the Q-tips. i get compliments all the time how my car smells good and they can't find the air freshener. haha one week after installing the filter and it still smells good
01-27-2007, 04:47 PM
#166
hunter
For 50 bucks you can buy and install a K&N air filter for the engine yourself. It last forever and flows better and is washable too- so no extra waste in the landfill
Cleaning the filter box involves a damp paper towel and maybe a shop vac if things are really bad
There are several makers of the cabin air filter, Fram and Bosch for sure in the USA
Bosch has activated charcoal (not same as cooking charcoal) that filters/absorbs some bad stuff from the air
If you live in really bad air- construction all the time, lots of semi trucks- traffic, factories, whatever, you can pick up at Home Depot, a home furnace filter thats 2 pieces of fabric -for about 5 bucks, washable and reuseable. Its made by 3M the Microfilter replacement pad
Cut a piece the size of the filter and slip it into the edge of the new filter to hold in place on the filter
Bonus filtration!
The one in the house furnace works great so I tried it in the car- amazing how much dirt comes in the filter!
For 50 bucks you can buy and install a K&N air filter for the engine yourself. It last forever and flows better and is washable too- so no extra waste in the landfill
Cleaning the filter box involves a damp paper towel and maybe a shop vac if things are really bad
There are several makers of the cabin air filter, Fram and Bosch for sure in the USA
Bosch has activated charcoal (not same as cooking charcoal) that filters/absorbs some bad stuff from the air
If you live in really bad air- construction all the time, lots of semi trucks- traffic, factories, whatever, you can pick up at Home Depot, a home furnace filter thats 2 pieces of fabric -for about 5 bucks, washable and reuseable. Its made by 3M the Microfilter replacement pad
Cut a piece the size of the filter and slip it into the edge of the new filter to hold in place on the filter
Bonus filtration!
The one in the house furnace works great so I tried it in the car- amazing how much dirt comes in the filter!
01-27-2007, 04:52 PM
#167
TL1999
Just ask the service place for their list of exactly what they do- they should be able to provide details based on your model car
I always say go to an independant acura specialist shop- every town has one- and let them do it. Often they do things not in the book- but needed in real life experience.
No requirement for you to take to the dealer for a basic service.
Always do what you can at home, just save the reciepts for oil and filters, note the mileage and write in your service book- performed by owner, no sweat.
If you have more than 3 years on the car- a brake flush helps prevent problems later
Just ask the service place for their list of exactly what they do- they should be able to provide details based on your model car
I always say go to an independant acura specialist shop- every town has one- and let them do it. Often they do things not in the book- but needed in real life experience.
No requirement for you to take to the dealer for a basic service.
Always do what you can at home, just save the reciepts for oil and filters, note the mileage and write in your service book- performed by owner, no sweat.
If you have more than 3 years on the car- a brake flush helps prevent problems later
01-27-2007, 06:22 PM
#168
Originally Posted by KSuchdeve
What is it a scented oil or something? What kind of stores would carry this? Thanks
yes, it's like some kind of potpurri recharging oil. it's like $1.96 and can be found in the walmart craft center...
not that i'm condoning you to do this if you fuck up, i'm not responsible
nor am i condoning you shop at walmart... it could be hazardous to your health
01-27-2007, 06:35 PM
#169
Originally Posted by assclown
yes, it's like some kind of potpurri recharging oil. it's like $1.96 and can be found in the walmart craft center...
not that i'm condoning you to do this if you fuck up, i'm not responsible
nor am i condoning you shop at walmart... it could be hazardous to your health
not that i'm condoning you to do this if you fuck up, i'm not responsible
nor am i condoning you shop at walmart... it could be hazardous to your health
If anything, I can buy a new filter at Autozone.
01-27-2007, 06:58 PM
#170
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Originally Posted by 01tl4tl
hunter
Bosch has activated charcoal (not same as cooking charcoal) that filters/absorbs some bad stuff from the air
Bosch has activated charcoal (not same as cooking charcoal) that filters/absorbs some bad stuff from the air
for charcoal.
01-28-2007, 07:31 PM
#171
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Changed filter
Thank's for the post, changed the filter myself. I would say it took about 45 minutes to do, I did not have to cut the plastic cover because I had the filter changed before by the delaer. I bought the filter at Auto Zone, Bosch P3600, it cost $12.
01-28-2007, 09:19 PM
#172
superfob
Good to know that charcoal is catching on with more makers
If anyone wants to make their car smell better- simply ask the wife or girlfriend for whatever scent you want- or get coconut or pine or... scent at any auto part store for a few bucks. A few drops onto a cotten ball- kept in an open small plastic bag under the seat...
I like the coconut- always get that -I'm on a tropical paradise with no problems- feeling every time I open the door. Later this year I will add sunblock just for the complete feeling!
Same idea as on the filter, just easier to reach and the heat under the seat spreads it!
Good to know that charcoal is catching on with more makers
If anyone wants to make their car smell better- simply ask the wife or girlfriend for whatever scent you want- or get coconut or pine or... scent at any auto part store for a few bucks. A few drops onto a cotten ball- kept in an open small plastic bag under the seat...
I like the coconut- always get that -I'm on a tropical paradise with no problems- feeling every time I open the door. Later this year I will add sunblock just for the complete feeling!
Same idea as on the filter, just easier to reach and the heat under the seat spreads it!
02-06-2007, 08:32 PM
#174
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Thanks for all info on filter changes, I just came in from replacing the one under my hood with a K and N, and I even did my cabin filter, since I am a girl- the spider that crawled out from the old filters behind the glove compartment was by far the worst part.
03-12-2007, 10:33 AM
#175
I know i'm reviving this thread (again), but in a way it's also a reminder for some people.
Anyway, been meaning to do this since I got the car a few months ago, but it was too cold. Finally warmed up this weekend and I got it done.
First, I took the clips off and swung the glove box open. I looked at the cover, which was still factory molded, and just knew that it was going to have 50k+ disgusting dust and dirt. I opened it up and not only that, but there were small leaves and little pine needle things that fell out... They weren't just dirty, they were black. Now I have some delicious fresh air to breathe!
Second, I tried to take a short cut by not removing the glove box; I sadly lost that battle. I eventually decided to take the glove box off and then realized there was absolutly no way it was going to come off without taking it completely off. Oh well, glove box=1 me=0.
Anyway, been meaning to do this since I got the car a few months ago, but it was too cold. Finally warmed up this weekend and I got it done.
First, I took the clips off and swung the glove box open. I looked at the cover, which was still factory molded, and just knew that it was going to have 50k+ disgusting dust and dirt. I opened it up and not only that, but there were small leaves and little pine needle things that fell out... They weren't just dirty, they were black. Now I have some delicious fresh air to breathe!
Second, I tried to take a short cut by not removing the glove box; I sadly lost that battle. I eventually decided to take the glove box off and then realized there was absolutly no way it was going to come off without taking it completely off. Oh well, glove box=1 me=0.
03-12-2007, 11:08 AM
#176
Senior Moderator
Originally Posted by jstahnke10
I know i'm reviving this thread (again), but in a way it's also a reminder for some people.
Anyway, been meaning to do this since I got the car a few months ago, but it was too cold. Finally warmed up this weekend and I got it done.
First, I took the clips off and swung the glove box open. I looked at the cover, which was still factory molded, and just knew that it was going to have 50k+ disgusting dust and dirt. I opened it up and not only that, but there were small leaves and little pine needle things that fell out... They weren't just dirty, they were black. Now I have some delicious fresh air to breathe!
Second, I tried to take a short cut by not removing the glove box; I sadly lost that battle. I eventually decided to take the glove box off and then realized there was absolutly no way it was going to come off without taking it completely off. Oh well, glove box=1 me=0.
Anyway, been meaning to do this since I got the car a few months ago, but it was too cold. Finally warmed up this weekend and I got it done.
First, I took the clips off and swung the glove box open. I looked at the cover, which was still factory molded, and just knew that it was going to have 50k+ disgusting dust and dirt. I opened it up and not only that, but there were small leaves and little pine needle things that fell out... They weren't just dirty, they were black. Now I have some delicious fresh air to breathe!
Second, I tried to take a short cut by not removing the glove box; I sadly lost that battle. I eventually decided to take the glove box off and then realized there was absolutly no way it was going to come off without taking it completely off. Oh well, glove box=1 me=0.
03-13-2007, 08:55 PM
#177
Suzuka Master
To quote Geiko, it's so easy even a caveman could do it! Doing mine tomorrow...along with be K&N drop-in for the engine intake, then intake resonator removal (soon after). 42k on car, neither filters and have been replaced. 
03-13-2007, 11:31 PM
#178
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No cutting or drilling
I did this install on my 2002 TL following the instructions, kinda. But I took apart more i guess, the whole glove box, maybe this would be easier. It took about the same amount of time if not less. And I didnt have to cut anything or drill. I took of the ENTIRE glove box and what held it in place, and voila just popped out the old ones and put in the new ones. And man what a bunch of dirt and old leaves and .....etc...if the picture doesnt work sorry!!!
03-13-2007, 11:38 PM
#179
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no rear panel on mine
I did this on my '02 TL but didnt have to cut anything, maybe that back piece was missing or something. The filters were pretty dirty though, maybe that piece was simply removed...oh well easier for me!!
03-14-2007, 12:03 AM
#180
Yes you are missing the piece
After it gets cut the first time you turn it sideways and reinstall.
See thread pics
Makea new one from cardboard
After it gets cut the first time you turn it sideways and reinstall.
See thread pics
Makea new one from cardboard
03-14-2007, 01:40 PM
#183
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I just did mine this morning. Thanks for the DIY pics. I purchased my vehicle pre-owned and when I went to do this found that someone had already performed this service prior. However, the filters were still dirty so I changed them out anyway. Very easy maintenance project - I paid $21.50 for two filters.
03-14-2007, 02:21 PM
#184
wow!
Thanks, I just saved some money doing this myself. I went to Autozone and I got pair of filters for 16.99$+tax. Took me about 20 min to put it on, I had no problem what so ever
Thanks, I just saved some money doing this myself. I went to Autozone and I got pair of filters for 16.99$+tax. Took me about 20 min to put it on, I had no problem what so ever
03-15-2007, 11:53 AM
#185
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Is there a significant difference between the charcoal filters and the particulates?
Originally Posted by chakamone
Thank's for the post, changed the filter myself. I would say it took about 45 minutes to do, I did not have to cut the plastic cover because I had the filter changed before by the delaer. I bought the filter at Auto Zone, Bosch P3600, it cost $12.
03-15-2007, 12:11 PM
#186
Senior Moderator
Do they even make charcoal filters for the TL? Id just get teh regular ones and change them every so often
03-15-2007, 01:03 PM
#187
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Actually they do. The price difference is ~$15 for the regular filters....~$35-45 for the charcoal.
Originally Posted by fsttyms1
Do they even make charcoal filters for the TL? Id just get teh regular ones and change them every so often
03-15-2007, 01:09 PM
#188
Senior Moderator
I personally would just stick with teh regulars and change them more often
03-15-2007, 06:19 PM
#191
Yes, I finally joined the change the -never serviced cabin air filter- today and wanted to add a few tips and learnings. Cant believe I was breathing thru that stuff!
The Bosch P3600 Autozone $16.99 comes with special stuff in the material to combat mold bacteria and pollen
The charcoal filters also catch many bad smells from the outside air- you can add activated charcoal from the drugstore or Arm &Hammer baking soda if you want to the new one and achieve similar effect.
Tips:
Cut one side of tabs with tin snips,wire side cutters, small kitchen scissors, utility knife (wear goggles) or similar tool and clip one side of tabs, bend flap/cover back and it almost breaks free- with a ~little~ encouragement.
Lots of whatever will be found inside- leaves-dustballs, missing paperwork etc.
Stick the shop vac hose in- careful of the heater core on the left
Suck up what you can then turn the car on and the fan to 3 (watch out for flying debris!) then 5, then 1 and switch to AC on and repeat, try every combination of fresh and recirc air to make sure its blown out as much debris and dust as possible- keep the new filters clean to start is the idea here.
More shop vac inside and in the car as well now!
Clean the plastic pieces that hold the filters. The paper filters pop out and everything is marked FLOW with an arrow so you cant go wrong
Every bit of dirt you can wash out now is better function later
A magnetic tipped screwdriver is a big help getting the main screws back in
The box says change every year or 12-15k miles
I will certainly be following at least that.
Change the trans fluid, replace the cabin filters while its draining.
20 bucks and the fan is quieter and the AC works better
The Bosch P3600 Autozone $16.99 comes with special stuff in the material to combat mold bacteria and pollen
The charcoal filters also catch many bad smells from the outside air- you can add activated charcoal from the drugstore or Arm &Hammer baking soda if you want to the new one and achieve similar effect.
Tips:
Cut one side of tabs with tin snips,wire side cutters, small kitchen scissors, utility knife (wear goggles) or similar tool and clip one side of tabs, bend flap/cover back and it almost breaks free- with a ~little~ encouragement.
Lots of whatever will be found inside- leaves-dustballs, missing paperwork etc.
Stick the shop vac hose in- careful of the heater core on the left
Suck up what you can then turn the car on and the fan to 3 (watch out for flying debris!) then 5, then 1 and switch to AC on and repeat, try every combination of fresh and recirc air to make sure its blown out as much debris and dust as possible- keep the new filters clean to start is the idea here.
More shop vac inside and in the car as well now!
Clean the plastic pieces that hold the filters. The paper filters pop out and everything is marked FLOW with an arrow so you cant go wrong
Every bit of dirt you can wash out now is better function later
A magnetic tipped screwdriver is a big help getting the main screws back in
The box says change every year or 12-15k miles
I will certainly be following at least that.
Change the trans fluid, replace the cabin filters while its draining.
20 bucks and the fan is quieter and the AC works better
03-18-2007, 05:17 PM
#194
I hope everyone checks their new cabin filters in 3 or 6 months to see what is in them
Then think what you engine air filter must be catching
Break out the K&N cleaning kit!
Then think what you engine air filter must be catching
Break out the K&N cleaning kit!
03-18-2007, 10:32 PM
#195
Suzuka Master
Originally Posted by 01tl4tl
I hope everyone checks their new cabin filters in 3 or 6 months to see what is in them
Then think what you engine air filter must be catching
Break out the K&N cleaning kit!
Then think what you engine air filter must be catching
Break out the K&N cleaning kit!
04-12-2007, 02:46 PM
#196
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Originally Posted by russian_in_TLS03
I did it myself and was amazed how simple, the dealer wanted $21.90 for a single filter (not a pair) plus $120 for labor. The dealer also told me that they do not offer this kind of service to customers due to the "complexity" quoting, however, when I looked at their service offering list, the change of the cabin filter rang at $70, but not sure if they include their $21.90 per filter part charge. Go figure...complexity 
j/k....i just found a lot of leaves and a ton on dirt/dust.
04-12-2007, 08:24 PM
#198
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Guys i need Help !!!!!!!!! Mine is a 05 Acura TL and glove box and others arent even close to this pics. They are different. There is nothing to cut and no gaps. I dont know what to do......
04-12-2007, 11:03 PM
#199
woooo!!
Originally Posted by krravi
Guys i need Help !!!!!!!!! Mine is a 05 Acura TL and glove box and others arent even close to this pics. They are different. There is nothing to cut and no gaps. I dont know what to do......
04-13-2007, 10:30 AM
#200
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Damn...forgot about those filters. I'm going to change them out this weekend...get to use my new rotary tool too! Unless, that is, they've already been changed.