Prius v (lowercase v) cabin air filter choices

There are 2 variants, the OEM type with charcoal, and the plain cheapo paper type. The OEM type is a much better filter, if that's a concern.
I recommend checking this at 15K miles rather than 30K, I've seen them get too clogged at 30K to be efficient and flow well. I replace it at 15K just on spec.

As long as you're getting the better type with charcoal, get whatever is cheapest. Last time around I got this one.

 

Read your post as I'm in the market for my second cabin filter and wanted to see what you recommended but your link (to Amazon) brought up this......
Auto Dynasty 87139-YZZ10 Replacement High Performance Car Engine Air Filter...
Seems there's confusion between ICE air filters and cabin air filters...

 

Confusing maybe, but its the right part number, and it is in fact a cabin filter.

 

Confusing maybe, but its the right part number, and it is in fact a cabin filter.[/QUOTE]

I now see in the "reviews" of this filter that it is a cabin filter; will now order it, thanks.....

 

I went looking for the cabin air filter in my v this afternoon. Presumed it was behind the lower glove compartment. Where exactly is it?

 

Presumed it was behind the lower glove compartment. Where exactly is it?[/QUOTE]

Yes it is....instructions in "owners manual"

 

In prior gen Prius', the glove compartment had to be removed.
IIRC for the v(agon) you just open the glove compartment to reach the back. The filter is behind a cover that flips off.

 

Thanks SageBrush, I had been looking in a somewhat dark garage and didn't see the snap on cover that was back behind the removable panel. Didn't look too dirty.

 

Wow - these seem overpriced! But I guess I would want to avoid the VERY cheapest ones. In the past I've made my own out of high-quality furnace filters - if you buy the very nicest super-allergen pleated furnace filter at your local home store, it will probably be $30. But you can cut at least 4-6 cabin-sized filters out of one furnace filter, making them much cheaper than premium cabin filters. Just verify the thickness is the same (so it will fit into the slot), then cut carefully with heavy snips and tape the exposed edges.
If you prefer to get pre-made ones, here's a well-reviewed one on Amazon for $12.81 (free shipping if you have a Prime account, or free "Super Saver" shipping if you buy 3 or more).
You can get the same one on RockAuto for $9.45, not including shipping. If you buy four or more, it's cheaper through RockAuto, even with shipping.

 

I'm a convert to charcoal filters -- they really do absorb bad odors remarkably well.
The v(agon) has a button that runs interior circulation on high for a minute or two through the cabin filter. When used in conjunction with a charcoal filter the system works fantastic.

 

Just replaced my cabin filter yesterday with the Air flow arrows pointing up , I have seen some videos where it has the arrows pointing down. which way is the correct way? I looked inside and I see the "squirrel cage is at the bottom so I would guess it is a upflow...so I that is why I put mine with the arrow pointing up. any clues ?

 

Air flow is from the top....arrows should point DOWN

 

.......I just confirmed with the way I installed with arrows up is the correct way. So fan is on bottom arrows will face up. Now if anyone elses needs to know that is the correct way

 

I think you are correct, I asked the mechanic guy down the street from me this morning while putting out the trash, he said air flow should go up, but I think you are correct. now I have to get a third opinion from the dealer damn, lol

 

Then I find this.. lol, who knew there is so many different views of installing a filter.. Toyota Prius Cabin Air Filter Cleaning & Replacement Guide - 2010 To 2015 Model Years - Picture Illustrated Automotive Maintenance DIY Instructions

 

Air flow is top to bottom....
I stand corrected on arrow position.....you are correct...goes up..

 

Anyone know when the actually operate? Specifically, is air ever sent through them when the filter button isn't pushed? We almost never have that button turned on so I wonder how much use ours ever gets.

 

Best check the filter once a year or following the maintenance guide. It will get dirty over time even if you do not press the recirculate button, which is what I'm assuming you are referring to with "filter button". There are instructions in the owner's manual...

If you do not press the recirculate button outside air drawn in is default, which means the filter gets more dirty.

 

I'm not referring to the recirculate button. Our 2015 level 3 has another button that the manual calls the "micro dust and pollen filter". It is on the passenger side of the controls in the top row. The image on the button is rather vague- I think it is trying to show a filter taking particles out. We use recirculate a lot but rarely have this one turned on.