2013 IS250C, purchased Dec 2013.

 

Where is the A/C filter located and how does one change it?

Thanks!

 

It's rather easy to do actually.

There is a horizontal thin plastic cover inside the back of the glove compartment.
You just remove the black exterior cover and it will expose a clear plastic housing.
You release the cover on that and you'll see the filter right behind it.

Just pull it out and put in the replacement.
The only caveat is to make sure the filter is orientated correctly.
There is an arrow printed on the edge of the filter which should be placed in the direction of the air flow.

In the past, I've used WIX replacement air filters in my ES.
They make 2 versions...one "regular" and one "charcoal". I usually use the "charcoal" one as it helps fight odors a bit better.
Definitely cheaper than the stock replacement.

Good luck !

 

Ah ok, so the 'a/c filter' is the cabin filter?
I've changed this before, hasn't seemed to do too much for the smell. I get that moldy smell too from the A/C if I don't turn it off and let the fan run for a bit before I shut off the car.

 

The filter certainly helps, but it doesn't usually make a "night & day" difference.

If the smell is bad, you really need to get the actual a/c cleaning kit.
I know you can get it through TOYOTA parts too.
It's a two part kit....
Once can shoots foam which you apply from underneath the car up the a/c drain tube (the short curved rubber tube
where the a/c water comes out).
The other can is an aerosol which you spray in from up top near the air intake at the base of the windshield.

Don't recall the part number though.
Think the kit cost around $20-25 dollars or so.