Replace A/c Filter Warning

[Robert Young]

I've started to get a "replace A/C filter" warning at engine start. However, the filter is essentially new and shows not even dust (OEM Toyota branded filter, not aftermarket). I've had filters before with significant dust and various bugs at replacement that did not generate that warning. Everything seems to work fine and even the lowest manual fan speed pushes a reasonable amount of air. I may have to get back on the Toyota Tech Info website, as the repair manuals I've downloaded earlier do not discuss the test. Any ideas would be welcome.

[ozone]

Have you tried resetting the computer that generates the message? Even if you replace the filter, the message will continue to show up. Here's how you do it: When starting the car, push and hold the A/C "OFF" button for 3 seconds. That should do it. If the message comes back, then there may actually something restricting flow. No suggestions for that.

Russ

('01 LS430, 235K miles and still going strong!)

[Robert Young]

Thanks for the suggestion, I thought there might be something like that and had not found it!!

[Robert Young]

Update, holding the A/C Off button did the trick and I did stumble on the instruction for that about 2/3 back in the owners manual section 4.3. I think this "test" is probably triggered more by miles / time driven on the computer (since A/C is almost always on) than any real measurement of air flow restriction, a bit like the oil change warning that has a similar reset function.