Paper thin factory Toyota cabin filter?

[KevinMalone]

I was surprised how thin and flimsy the factory installed cabin filter was on a 2021 Corolla (assembled in Japan). Here it is held up to the sun after cleaning:

I'm curious if they just threw in whatever was available during COVID. No manufacturer, branding or part numbers printed on the filter, but it does have the same markings as the genuine Toyota replacement filter, which has proper looking filter media:

Here's how it compares to its TYC Taiwan replacement:

Very pleased with the TYC filter for only $5

 

[The Critic]

"Flimsy" is a good thing. Otherwise, you'll be battling air flow issues.

 

[Dave Hess]

"Flimsy" is a good thing. Otherwise, you'll be battling air flow issues.

Yep, just like a home A/C filter.

 

[fantastic]

Have you priced a re-usable K&N cabin filter? Air filters you don't want to be restricted & "paper thin" is better at month 12. However, it all depends on the media type. K&N was still able to see light through but maybe just a bit thicker than what you show here. They are made with cotton.

 

[KevinMalone]

"Flimsy" is a good thing. Otherwise, you'll be battling air flow issues.

Seems like Toyota favors flow over filter efficiency in all of their filters!

 

[eljefino]

Those filters are to keep bugs out of the AC evaporator. Seem to be doing the job.

 

[RAVL]

I use a Mann Hummel ( Wix branded) that has carbon as well. Where I commute into the city it has become common for folks to walk around smoking weed and I cannot stand the smell. This filters it out. I find I have to change them all about once a year as they get very dirty.

 

[Dave Hess]

"Flimsy" is a good thing. Otherwise, you'll be battling air flow issues.

I change the cabin filter every 6 months.

Air flow is a good thing.

 

[Geekhead]

Seems like Toyota favors flow over filter efficiency in all of their filters!

And if flow is a bad thing in a Toy filter I have never had any engine wear issues on many high mileage (180,000 miles+) Toys I have had that use OEM filters only. I do use Mobil 1 or Pennzoil exclusively that prob is the main reason for long engine life.