ivanj

(I seen this sort of thing from the factory, although it was a washable foam surrounding the regular air filter, in a MB V8 motor, to supplement/house the regular air filters. I think many were installed and then thrown away by the techs on the clock who did not want to take the time to wash and dry it.)

VVTiBob can be depended on. However, yours pictured almost looks like a cabin air filter (CAF)? I just replaced my SC CAF - in the proper place - so the config is reminiscent. I'll have to check my housing out to see if there is one there....

If it is a CAF there must be a story behind it!

okievision

Google search for those numbers on that filter brought up

TOYOTA 17812-31040 FILTER, AIR CLEANER,

and

Lexus Part No.: 17812-31040

FILTER AIR CLEANER


Part DescriptionFilter

ManufacturerLexus. This genuine Lexus part is guaranteed by Lexus's factory warranty.

Manufacturer's NotesThis part is discontinued. It is no longer available for purchase.

Lavrishevo

iTrader: (1)

It's interesting. The filter was rivited into the housing, much thinner then a cabin filter, and mounted into the housing pictured. As mentioned I snapped / broke it out which made me believe it was not serviceable filter. There is a sticker mentioning the car is CA certified or something like that but was originally sold out of FL.

As far as techron, it does work not but as well may other products. I fill up at Costco as often as I can and choose to use my own additives. There is a forum called bobs the oil guy that is excellent. People have done oil analysis on MMO. It contains an excellent blend of friction modifiers and cleansing agents and is highly regarded. I don't use MMO with every oil change. I am using it to gently clean the engine for about 500 to 1000 miles before my first oil change.

Also on my list -
Power steering fluid
Transmission fluid
Rear end fluid

Already have my LBJ's, tie rod ends, front and rear sway bar bushes, as well as steering rack bushes. I have a business trip to DC this week and looking forward to getting back and installing my new parts. Oh yeah, new engine temp sensor too. Kind of a rinse and repeat of what I did on my LS. 👍

Coleroad

That filter is a carbon filter. It absorbs gas fumes that.come back up through the intake upon shutting the car off. These are becoming more and more prevalent.

About the techron: not talking about good or bad here. When manufacturers recommend castrol, Techron, shell, etc. these are paid agreements with the automakers. Advertisement for the product makers, and extra money in the pockets of the automakers.