Cabin Filter Replacement with a surprise

Today’s project involved replacing the cabin filter in my Toyota FJ Cruiser. If you have not done this it is an easy task. The filter is located behind the glove box and is easily removed by squeezing the 2 tabs in.

When I pulled the filter out I got a big surprise. The area above the filter was packed with shredded insulation from what I guessed was the engine compartment. It appears that some small animal decided to try and make a nest. The photo shows the insulation stripped off the outer black cover. I think this must have happened during our last vacation.

The low cost way to replace this filter is to use a home AC filter which is then cut to size. Once the filter is cut and installed, the plastic holder is placed back in the holder in the FJ and the job is complete.

The dilemma at this point is how to prevent this from happening again…. Some suggest leaving the hood open when parked. I’m going to continue my research on this.