[vanib]

I replace the cabin filter every 2 years. In my case that would mean evey 10k miles.
Even if it looks clean, I just toss it out.

BTW, does the FRAM FRESH BREEZE have a smell to it?

I think some people might not know the direction of air flow; to me, UP is more intuitive.

 

[vanib]

I bought the same filter, I put it with the arrow UP (opposite way)... Oops .

If you plan on reversing your filter, vaccum it well first, Optionally, bang it on your head a few times and you will also remember better for next time

 

[vanib]

I think that for regular cabin filters both side are the same. Just remember to put same way in if pulling it just to check.

 

[vanib]

May be a dead animal or rotten leaves in the cabin filter region. Check it out. Buy / "MacGyver" a cabin filter with carbon as discussed in this thread.
I never had any smell in my 2008 Rav4.

 

[vanib]

Is this stink also happening for those who have the Base models?
I never had this stink in any car (Acura, Toyota, Mazda)

I usually put the ac off 2 min before I reach my destination with the air still circulating from the inside. I figured that the coils are already cool enough so that it don't have to uselessly power if for 2 min.

 

[vanib]

I buy a white furnace filter when on sale for $2-$3 and use it to make my own cabin filters for RAV and Avalon. Cut and scotch tape to filter frame and works good for me. Amazing how much dirt in just one year is caught by the filter.:shrug:

I know that there is more space in the elements of a fibreglass furnace filter. I hope that you are NOT using these ones as it would let through a lot of dust into the RAV.

 

[vanib]

The cabin filter is just behin the glove compartment. If your pollen filter is at the same location, then I would say it's the same.