The reason I asked the question is that my 2001 Forester came with this
cabin filtration system (although I didn't want it). The car now has
60K miles on it and the filter has only been changed once (by the
dealer). Needless to say, I don't want to pay dealer prices to have it
done again.
So, what ill effects, if any, can I expect if the filter never gets
changed again?
Hmmm...if it's been in there for 60K miles, it
should be...**nasty**. Loaded up with dirt,
dust, black-sooty looking stuff, and all manner
of organic plant material (much of which looks
way to large to fit into the vent
system)...probably enough crap to absorb moisture
and support mold & mildew growth on the filter
itself, definitely enough to reduce air flow thru
your vents.
Eventually the accumulation will probably cause
the filter media to collapse into the fan
housing, stalling the fan or making a lot of
noise.
What do I need to do to take a look at it on my own?
Read the section in your owners manual that tells
you how to get to it.
Finally, if the filter is filthy, what's worse in terms of cabin air
quality? -- Leaving it as is, or removing it altogether?
Worse to leave it in.
I wouldn't
have thought that this filtration system really accomplishes anything,
since other cars I've had didn't have one. But if the filter does trap
all sorts of junk, maybe it really is important to change it.
Well, why don't you check yours out, then come
back here and tell us what you think? ;-)