Cabin Air filters for $18

[mfisher1967]

I was at my local Advance Auto parts and asked about a Cabin Air filter for my wife's 2006 LX. The guy working behind the counter told me that the Purolator filter was in stock and would be $18. They also carry the Bosch filter for $19, but did not have one in stock. I looked at the Purolator filter and it looked identical to the Honda OEM part, which my dealer sells for $50. Needless to say, I picked up a filter for the Pilot.

I then went to Pep Boys and bought a can of A/C duct cleaner for $10. I have used this stuff before and it eliminates the musty smell that originates from the Evaporator and ducts for months.

[A6Pilot]

Only one problem with aftermarket cabin air filters (including the Honda over the counter part): it isn't the same spec as the cabin air filter installed at the factory. The factory cabin air filter is impregnated with activated carbon (hence the grey color of the filter media), and the aftermarket parts are not - with one exception: Look for the Fram 'Fresh Breeze' cabin air filters (part number CF8813A).

The Fram Fresh Breeze filter media contains both activated carbon and baking soda. BTW- The Fram part number CF8813 does not contain either the activated carbon or baking soda. The Fresh Breeze line is just starting to show up on parts dealers shelves. At most places it is still a special order part.

Again, it's interesting to note that the Honda cabin air filter is not the same part installed at the factory. For $50 you should expect more.

[jcantanixon]

What about the Bosch?

[normkol]

I installed the Bosch yesterday. It is a MicronAir filter, packed in the Bosch box.

It is an exact copy of the Honda, except for the Honda name in the plastic molding.

I'm pretty sure MicronAir is the supplier to Honda, so the Bosch is basically an OEM part. And, it was only $12.50 at Rock Auto.

[A6Pilot]

Again, the Bosch part is not impregnated with activated carbon, as is the factory cabin air filter. Bosch makes a cabin air filter that is impregnated (5 layers), but not in a size for the Honda/Acura. The Honda filter is the original 3 layer type.

[mfisher1967]

What's the need to use a carbon impregnated filter? Fram sells one for $44, but I can use the Purolator and change it twice for less than one Fram filter.

The bottom line is to use a can of A/C duct cleaner before changing out the filter. I then spray the duct cleaner directly on the Evaporator once the used filter has been removed. This takes care of the musty smells and only costs $10.