2005 Outback 3.0R cabin air filter

[Jason (archive)]

The manual recommends changing the cabin air filter yearly. Is that something I can do or does it require a visit to the dealer?

TIA

Jaosn

 

[Frank (archive)]

If it is like my Forester's you can do it. You have to remove the glove compartment which has about 10 screws. The Forester filter costs over $50 which I consider a ripoff for something that probably costs 50 cents to make including materials. I waited over 2 years on mine, took it out and washed it. In previous discussion, others mentioned replacing filter media with maybe something from a furnace filter. If you have a severe pollen problem, maybe you want to use the Subaru replacement.

 

[Bart (archive)]

I changed the filter myself on my '03 Forester. I waited for about 2.5 years -- it was pretty dirty, and changing it was pretty easy -- just follow the instructions that come with the filter.

I ordered the filter from http://www.subarupartsforyou.com/ -- it was $37, including shipping & handling.

 

[Carl 1 Lucky Texan]

The manual recommends changing the cabin air filter yearly. Is that something I can do or does it require a visit to the dealer?

TIA

Jaosn

I bought my OBW filters from janie at www.subarugenuineparts.com but will use the old ones to buile my own for next year's swap out.

Its a DIY project. You'll need a Philips screwdriver and maybe a 10mm socket IIRC. I believe there are also instructions at www.cars101.com

Carl

 

[Jason (archive)]

I bought my OBW filters from janie at www.subarugenuineparts.com but will use the old ones to buile my own for next year's swap out.

Its a DIY project. You'll need a Philips screwdriver and maybe a 10mm socket IIRC. I believe there are also instructions at www.cars101.com

Carl

Thanks, Carl

I looked at that site and it seems as if I can do it. Useful info.

Jason

 

[QX]

Thanks, Carl

I looked at that site and it seems as if I can do it. Useful info.

Jason

Somehere I remember seeing a DIY website where they made their own cabin filter for a Forester out of one of the 3M high performance furnace filters. I seem to remember they go for under $15 for the highest filtration level. Available at Home Depot & Lowe's stores nationwide.

 

[AS]

When you take the filters out, look at the surface of the A/C evaporator and remove any dirt that has bypassed the filter.

The subaru filter is a joke. The media is not even sealed against the plastic frame of the filter. But then again, in the back of the filter location, there is no seal between the filter and the evaporator housing.

Good luck