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Issues with using K&N air filters on the gen 3?

Discussion in 'Gen 3 Prius Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting' started by Priusguy78213, Sep 21, 2015.

  1. Priusguy78213

    Priusguy78213 Junior Member

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    I changed out the cheap, flimsy cabin air filter that the dealership installed with a much better quality carbon filter. I checked the engine air filter; ok as it was the OEM Toyota filter. Was thinking about upgrading to K&N for the filter though. Now I didn't see anything about issues here on the site but on Amazon.com I read the reviews. And someone with a 2011 said that apparently due to the configuration of the filter housing and the throttle body that some of the lubricating oil used on those K&N air filters found it's way into the throttle body and gummed things up. At least that's what they were told by the dealership. Resulting in a $600.00 repair.

    Now they had this done at the stealership so I'm not sure if the filter was to blame at all or not. Just thought I'd check to see if anyone had ever heard of issues using the K&N filters. Thanks.
     
  2. StarCaller

    StarCaller Senior Member

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    you have to be careful not to over-oil them, otherwise your maf sensor plays nuts/
     
  3. xliderider

    xliderider Senior Member

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    This looks like a good, washable, oil free air filter with a lifetime warranty:

     
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  4. Priusguy78213

    Priusguy78213 Junior Member

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    Thanks. Yeah I had the K&N on the old Honda Civic before I got this thing. Never any issues. But I figure this is a different car and when I read that one Amazon.com review, figured I'd check. Probably better safe than sorry; this looks like a good alternative to the K&N.
     
  5. Pakeha_Prius

    Pakeha_Prius Junior Member

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    Smells like BS to me
    It's possible it was over-oiled, but K&N call bullsh!t on that one:

    K&N Response to Mass Air Flow Sensor Concerns

    I've never had a problem in my previous 5 cars.
    On the off chance you actually have to clean and re-oil it, just follow the instructions - few drops on each pleat.
     
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