DIY - Cleaning the Smog Sensor
#1
Super Moderator
Thread Starter
Cleaning the air quality / smog sensor
Really not sure if this is an issue for anyone since I've been in plenty of dusty areas and my smog sensor for outside/recirc seems to be working fine.
I saw this on a Russian thread about cleaning one on a '05 LX.
Sensor is located in front of the radiator
The GX unit appears to look like this
EDIT: Thread from LS forum
I saw this on a Russian thread about cleaning one on a '05 LX.
Sensor is located in front of the radiator
The GX unit appears to look like this
EDIT: Thread from LS forum
Last edited by Acrad; 03-16-18 at 07:56 AM.
The following users liked this post:
KJ6IRM (03-18-18)
#2
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (1)
DIY - Cleaning the Smog Sensor
Something I have done on other Lexus vehicles. Mine was not super dirty but yours may be. Helps restore original like new performance. On my old LS it was pretty filthy vs the GX.
1: Remove the 12 or so clips on the large plastic cover over the radiator and remove cover.
2 : Unplug and remove sensor. I believe the 1 bolt was 10mm
3: Use a trim tool or flathead screwdriver to open the 3 clips and clean. The filter element I wash with degreaser or dish soap. Then dry with a clean cloth. It's gentle so handle appropriately.
4 : Reassemble and you are good to go.
*Do not clean the actual round electronic sensor element with anything but MAF or electronic cleaner. Maybe 90% rubbing alcohol but if not particularly dirty I would mainly clean the case and filter element.
1: Remove the 12 or so clips on the large plastic cover over the radiator and remove cover.
2 : Unplug and remove sensor. I believe the 1 bolt was 10mm
3: Use a trim tool or flathead screwdriver to open the 3 clips and clean. The filter element I wash with degreaser or dish soap. Then dry with a clean cloth. It's gentle so handle appropriately.
4 : Reassemble and you are good to go.
*Do not clean the actual round electronic sensor element with anything but MAF or electronic cleaner. Maybe 90% rubbing alcohol but if not particularly dirty I would mainly clean the case and filter element.
Last edited by Lavrishevo; 07-13-20 at 12:49 PM.
#3
Super Moderator
Thread Starter
I thought about doing that as well but haven't gotten around to it. Might check it out tomorrow.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gx-...og-sensor.html
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/gx-...og-sensor.html
The following users liked this post:
Lavrishevo (07-11-20)
The following users liked this post:
Acrad (07-11-20)
#5
Super Moderator
Thread Starter
I cleaned mine this morning as well. Dish soap cleaned filter up nicely.
PN: 013650-0040
This would be on the following models:
'10-'13 base w/Comfort Plus Package or w/standalone 3 zone HVAC option
'10-'13 premium
'14-'16 base w/Comfort Package
'14-'20 Premium and Luxury
PN: 013650-0040
This would be on the following models:
'10-'13 base w/Comfort Plus Package or w/standalone 3 zone HVAC option
'10-'13 premium
'14-'16 base w/Comfort Package
'14-'20 Premium and Luxury
Last edited by Acrad; 07-12-20 at 12:47 PM.
The following 3 users liked this post by Acrad:
The following users liked this post:
Acrad (07-12-20)
#7
Super Moderator
Thread Starter
A little over 8 years worth of dirt and dust.
Trending Topics
#8
Lead Lap
'14-'20 Premium and Luxury
I thought all `20s come with the smog sensor standard (at least v-specs have it listed)
I thought all `20s come with the smog sensor standard (at least v-specs have it listed)
#9
Super Moderator
Thread Starter
Just going off brochure right now. It mentions inclusion with 3-zone HVAC but not seeing that option available on a base since 2016.
https://www.lexus.com/documents/broc...X-Brochure.pdf
According to owner's manual looks like the AUTO button is missing from recirculation button as well.
https://www.lexus.com/documents/broc...X-Brochure.pdf
According to owner's manual looks like the AUTO button is missing from recirculation button as well.
Last edited by Acrad; 07-12-20 at 08:19 PM.
#10
Racer
Thanks for the post and pictures. I didn't know this is a serviceable thing and DIY too. I will be pulling mine out today and see.
The following users liked this post:
Lavrishevo (07-13-20)
#12
Racer
I pulled mine out and gave it a good cleaning with an air can. Lol. Not too dusty inside and the filter looks pretty good for 10 years of Northern CA air.
I only remembered that it switched from Refresh to Recir a couple of times but didn’t remember any difference between the air. Hope this helps a bit.
I only remembered that it switched from Refresh to Recir a couple of times but didn’t remember any difference between the air. Hope this helps a bit.
The following users liked this post:
nuclearn8 (07-14-20)
#13
Lexus Fanatic
iTrader: (1)
I think it's worth washing out the filter as well. If you off road or drive on dirt roads chances are it will collect a lot more dust. Personally, carbon monoxide / smog from other vehicles bothers me a lot so I have the sensitivity set to maximum under the settings via the head unit.
The following users liked this post:
bbqsoup (07-13-20)
#14
Racer
Yup. Gave it good wash with dish soap. I also have sensitivity set to max as well.
#15
Super Moderator
Thread Starter
I've had mine on lots of dusty roads and it's first 3 years were in Southern California as well.