'05 LGT Ltd cabin filter - retrofit

[coarsegoldkid]

I read all that I found on this forum regarding the cabin filter and I can say this forum's members are great. With all the pictures available the PITA filter looks manageable. I intend to get to it. Yesterday I was at my Sub dealer and asked the service writer about the kit and install cost just to hear his response. When I got home I wrote the following email to Subaru.
I own a '05 Legacy Sedan GT Limited vin number 4S3BL676354218768. I inquired at my local dealer about changing the cabin filter and if any retro fit kits exist for it. The service writer said No kits. He also told me for $50 for the filter and $85 for labor they will change it. Wow for an air filter.
I have read on the Legacy Forum where many owners have replaced the filter but it was unclear as to which '05 Legacys had retro fit kits and which did not. Can you help me figure this out by the VIN number.

Oh, why did Subaru make a cabin filter so difficult to change?

joe harvey

Subaru response

Thank you for taking the time to contact us. I am sorry for this experience at Herwaldt Subaru. We do appreciate that you brought this situation to our attention.

We do offer retrofit kits for the air filtration system (cabin air filter) for our 2005 Legacy and Outback models. Some of our 2005 Legacy and Outback models are equipped to just accept the air filtration system. Those that were manufactured early in the production year, such as your 2005 Legacy Sedan, there is a retrofit kit. The part number is SOA342L500. This part is available at our Parts Warehouses and can be purchased through any authorized Subaru dealership.

With this message, I have attached the installation instructions for this retrofit kit, so that you can see how it is installed.

I am sorry, as I cannot advise of why this filter was designed and is installed as it is.

Thank you for the opportunity to be of assistance. If you need any future assistance, please let us know. So there we have from the horses mouth. But writers on this fourm that tread the waters before me didn't you discover that the retro fit kit of the part number given in Subaru's response was discontinued.
Guess I'll just follow what the adventurous among you did for the rest of us.

[deneb]

Interesting! Would you be able to attach the instructions for this? Out of curiousity, where in CA is Corsegold?

[Scotty]

Even with the retrofit kit, it's still PITA to change the filter, about 15 minutes. Being a mechanical engineer, my best guess would be something got messed up during the design phase and the air filter had to be relocated. If the entire assembly was about 5" to the left, the filter would come right out when you pull out the cubby that the owners manual sits in.

As far as the filter, some of us just take household HVAC air filter and cut to fit.

[coarsegoldkid]

Coarsegold, CA is about 30 miles due north of Fresno in a wide spot on Hwy 41. Roughly one hour from Yosemite National Park.
Attached is the document sent by Subaru. Sorry I'm doing something wrong because the attachement will not attach.

[zmarko]

Attached is the document sent by Subaru. Sorry I'm doing something wrong because the attachement will not attach.
I don't believe you can attatch a document file. Just copy and paste.

[coarsegoldkid]

The only parts of the document I could copy and paste are below. None of the diagrams could be c & p. Not much help.
PART NUMBER: SOA342L500
DESCRIPTION: 2005MY LEGACY
AIR FILTRATION CONVERSION KIT

KIT CONTENTS:

1) Installation Instructions
2) Filter Carrier (PN: 73553AG02B)
3) Glove Box Trim Panel (PN: 66208AG02B)
4) Air Filter Element Including Service Label and Caution Label (PN: G3210AG000)

TOOLS REQUIRED:

1) Slotted Screwdriver
2) Phillips Screwdriver

[Spinjockey]

I thought the conversion kit was discussed a while back...

You probably don't need the conversion kit, likely just the filter. You MAY have the Filter Holder/Carrier and the Glove Box Trim Panel won't make it any easier/faster to change the filter. I ended up doing it and found that I already had the updated (later build date - 373xxx than yours).

If you have any section of cloth in the back the glove box you most likely have the updated parts. Even w/o it you likely have the filter carrier in there. If you don't have the carrier I've got an extra I could ship you.

Also there is an article on how to install the Filter which was better than the write up that Subaru provided...

[Montana]

I posted a write up while following the Subie directions and I posted photos from this change and I looked at the difference between our '05 and '06. The black cloth piece covers a hole on the plastic firewall panel that runs from behind the glove box to the floor. If you have this cloth piece, you do not need to disassemble the dash or console at all, you go in from the right edge of the glove box. It's still PITA because the hole doesn't align with the carrier. The engineering concept was obviously to have it slide out but they missed.

http://www.legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18263

[Opie]

If you want a better fitting and better looking solution to the air filtration difficulty for your early 2005 (and 2006-2007 with the silly cloth cover) you can update all models to the new 2008 style. The 2008 style has an all new molded rear glove box section and a molded plastic door that covers the filter tray area that is held in place with 5 pop-its. Much cleaner looking and more solidly put together. It still takes about 10 minutes to change the filter but is a huge improvement over the 2005 non-design and the '06-'07 hacked-cloth design.

I installed all the '08 parts in my early '05 today, took about 40 minutes total (I was taking my time). Didn't get any pic's because I wasn't sure it would work, but since it did I will also be ordering the same parts for my wife Legacy and will photo document the install at that time.

2008 Parts needed:
Glove box back panel - 66208AG07A
Air filtration access cover - 66241AG29A
5 Clip's (pop-its) - 909140037
Pocket cushion - 66153GA000
2 Tapping Scews - 904500025
and of course a replacement cabin filter - G3210AG000

Total cost (including the filter) was about $100, about the same price as the "Retro" kit from Subaru.

[outahere]

Opie, thanks for this information. Do you have any photos?

[NutBucket]

Ttiwop!!!

[CarlJN@gmail.com]

Wait, would I still have to rip apart my car to get to the filter?

[outahere]

[QUOTE=Opie;1221564................

2008 Parts needed:
Glove box back panel - 66208AG07A
Air filtration access cover - 66241AG29A
5 Clip's (pop-its) - 909140037
Pocket cushion - 66153GA000
2 Tapping Scews - 904500025
and of course a replacement cabin filter - G3210AG000

Total cost (including the filter) was about $100, about the same price as the "Retro" kit from Subaru.[/QUOTE]



In addition to the above parts listed by Opie, I also needed:

2pc: 902510011 nut

[eyeillini]

My dealer is quoting $80 to replace the filter. I'm thinking it might not be worth it to replace this thing each year. Are there any negative consequences of removing the filter for good? I mean I don't live in a plastic bubble. Do I really care if I ingest some dust in the car?

[eldiablo]

You will see more dust / dirt in the cabin if you remove it. I noticed a considerable reduction in dust once I finally installed a filter in my early build 05 model. Replace it yourself - it's not hard to do.

[Scotty]

Considering how dirty the filter gets over 6 months, I replace mine on a regular basis. Not difficult to DIY and to use your own filter.

[puzzled]

I bought all the parts needed (minus the subaru filter) and did the swap today.

I think it was worth the effort putting all the pieces in. I should be able to swap the filter in about 5 minutes now, compared to 25 before.

For the filter media I am using 3M Filtrete Ultra Allergen 1250. A 20x25x1 sheet ($15) makes six filters for the Subaru.

[Wooderson]

So, What I got out of that email is that some 05 LGTs (earlier production) need the retrofit kit to install the cabin filter. But the later production 05s need just a filter installed? Am I missing something here?

Also, how can I tell by my VIN # whether or not my 05 LGT was produced early or late?

[gregnauman]

How often is everyone changing this filter?

[puzzled]

How often is everyone changing this filter?


I used to change them every six months, but now I am aiming for every three.

[itsme]

Can someone post a how-to on the walkthourgh section?

[caramall2]

The "search" function is your friend...

Here's a walk-thru I did on one I modded myself....but you get the idea (scroll about half-way down the page...pics included).

http://www.legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=34389&highlight=filter&page=2

[gregnauman]

If you want a better fitting and better looking solution to the air filtration difficulty for your early 2005 (and 2006-2007 with the silly cloth cover) you can update all models to the new 2008 style. The 2008 style has an all new molded rear glove box section and a molded plastic door that covers the filter tray area that is held in place with 5 pop-its. Much cleaner looking and more solidly put together. It still takes about 10 minutes to change the filter but is a huge improvement over the 2005 non-design and the '06-'07 hacked-cloth design.

I installed all the '08 parts in my early '05 today, took about 40 minutes total (I was taking my time). Didn't get any pic's because I wasn't sure it would work, but since it did I will also be ordering the same parts for my wife Legacy and will photo document the install at that time.

2008 Parts needed:
Glove box back panel - 66208AG07A
Air filtration access cover - 66241AG29A
5 Clip's (pop-its) - 909140037
Pocket cushion - 66153GA000
2 Tapping Scews - 904500025
and of course a replacement cabin filter - G3210AG000

Total cost (including the filter) was about $100, about the same price as the "Retro" kit from Subaru.

Opie did you ever do the write up of the 2008 conversion when you did your wife's legacy?

[Qship]

^
+1

[coarsegoldkid]

Didn't get any pic's because I wasn't sure it would work, but since it did I will also be ordering the same parts for my wife Legacy and will photo document the install at that time.


Opie, I was wondering if you ever got around to photo documenting your wife's Legacy glove box conversion?

[gregnauman]

That would be great. My 2005 already had the Subaru Chop Shop done to it when I got it and would prefer to fix it with the newer style.

When you take pics show us how much easier it is to change the filter.

[Bimmer]

I used to change them every six months, but now I am aiming for every three.

I follow Subaru's recommendations... BTW, AFAIK the OEM filter is activated charcoal, so it not only filters out pollen and dust, but actually cleans out nasty air pollutants as well.
A German car magazine did a test several years ago on these things, and they actually work...

That said, now that I live in the boondocks, maybe I'll switch over to something cheaper.

Ben

[4wheeling]

I know this is old but did anyone post a picture write up of the 08 retro fit for the cabin filter mentioned above?

[coarsegoldkid]

I know this is old but did anyone post a picture write up of the 08 retro fit for the cabin filter mentioned above?
Well I did the 08 retro fit. I also tried to photo document the work but the pictures were not helpful in my opinion.
Yes you have to tear the car apart but it really isn't to bad. There is a short instruction sheet that comes with the kit. The filter itself was a disappointment. Make your own with high quality filters from air conditioner filters(thin ones) from the hardware store. You'll see what I mean with kit in hand. Once the kit is installed replacement will be much easier but not as simple as changing the engine air filter. You still must wiggle into position, loosen a few fasteners and have a go at it. I think the kit is worth it, just make your own filter by using the tray as a template for size. I hope that helps.

[4wheeling]

Thanks for the reply. Two questions:

1) Is there a kit part number or do I order them individually?

2) If I am going to buy a better filter then do I need to order the OEM filter?

Thank you.

[coarsegoldkid]

Use the numbers posted by Opie. You can skip the filter. Don't be in a rush and all dismantling comes easy. No forcing.

[4wheeling]

Thanks.:)

[jim1969]

In addition to the above parts listed by Opie, I also needed:

2pc: 902510011 nut

were do these go?

[jim1969]

If you want a better fitting and better looking solution to the air filtration difficulty for your early 2005 (and 2006-2007 with the silly cloth cover) you can update all models to the new 2008 style. The 2008 style has an all new molded rear glove box section and a molded plastic door that covers the filter tray area that is held in place with 5 pop-its. Much cleaner looking and more solidly put together. It still takes about 10 minutes to change the filter but is a huge improvement over the 2005 non-design and the '06-'07 hacked-cloth design.

I installed all the '08 parts in my early '05 today, took about 40 minutes total (I was taking my time). Didn't get any pic's because I wasn't sure it would work, but since it did I will also be ordering the same parts for my wife Legacy and will photo document the install at that time.

2008 Parts needed:
Glove box back panel - 66208AG07A
Air filtration access cover - 66241AG29A
5 Clip's (pop-its) - 909140037
Pocket cushion - 66153GA000
2 Tapping Scews - 904500025
and of course a replacement cabin filter - G3210AG000

Total cost (including the filter) was about $100, about the same price as the "Retro" kit from Subaru.

Did you ever document you wife's legacy install? Just recieved all of the above parts.

[Subietonic]

Did you ever document you wife's legacy install? Just recieved all of the above parts.

Was wondering this myself.

[gregnauman]

If you want a better fitting and better looking solution to the air filtration difficulty for your early 2005 (and 2006-2007 with the silly cloth cover) you can update all models to the new 2008 style. The 2008 style has an all new molded rear glove box section and a molded plastic door that covers the filter tray area that is held in place with 5 pop-its. Much cleaner looking and more solidly put together. It still takes about 10 minutes to change the filter but is a huge improvement over the 2005 non-design and the '06-'07 hacked-cloth design.

I installed all the '08 parts in my early '05 today, took about 40 minutes total (I was taking my time). Didn't get any pic's because I wasn't sure it would work, but since it did I will also be ordering the same parts for my wife Legacy and will photo document the install at that time.

2008 Parts needed:
Glove box back panel - 66208AG07A
Air filtration access cover - 66241AG29A
5 Clip's (pop-its) - 909140037
Pocket cushion - 66153GA000
2 Tapping Scews - 904500025
and of course a replacement cabin filter - G3210AG000

Total cost (including the filter) was about $100, about the same price as the "Retro" kit from Subaru.

Anybody have any pics of the 2008 parts just to see how much easier it is to change over the 2005-2006 silly cloth cover?

I was thinking about doing this update but wanted to see if it is any easier

[jim1969]

I have all this stuff in my trunk. Hoping for a write up here.

[Bimmer]

Anybody have any pics of the 2008 parts just to see how much easier it is to change over the 2005-2006 silly cloth cover?


I don't have pictures, but here's the 2008 process:

1. Pry off the side cover from the dash board (where the dash meets the door). No screws.

2. Unscrew the glovebox hinge (one screw). Remove the glove box.

3. Tug out the owner's manual holder above the main glovebox compartment. No screws.

4. Remove the back of the glove box. Five screws.

5. Pop off the cover, and pull out the air filter element.

The first time I did it, it took 15 minutes. Now I'm sure I could do it in less than five.

Ben

[gregnauman]

Sounds like it is pretty much the same process as the 2006 retro version with the paper and velcro cover, i wonder what is actually different here.

I take the side cover off, I take the glove box off, pull the manual holder out, remove 3 screws holding bracket above paper cover, flip the paper cover up and pull out filter element.


Is the only difference the it actually has a cover that you unscrew instead of a paper velcro door?

If you could take some pictures of what it looks like with the glove box removed that would be great.

[outahere]

were do these go?

sorry, I don't remember. I did the conversion a year ago.

[jim1969]

I don't have pictures, but here's the 2008 process:

1. Pry off the side cover from the dash board (where the dash meets the door). No screws.

2. Unscrew the glovebox hinge (one screw). Remove the glove box.

3. Tug out the owner's manual holder above the main glovebox compartment. No screws.

4. Remove the back of the glove box. Five screws.

5. Pop off the cover, and pull out the air filter element.

The first time I did it, it took 15 minutes. Now I'm sure I could do it in less than five.

Ben

could you post a pic of the 5 screws in the back of the glove box?

[jim1969]

I am so pissed. I have all the necessary parts to convert my 05 to the 08 glove box. I got everything apart today. There is NO WAY the filter tray is coming out. It hits the right support bracket for the glove box where the screw goes in. The alignment is way off from the slot in the back of the 08 glove box. I had to reassemble my orignal setup.

[Subietonic]

I am so pissed. I have all the necessary parts to convert my 05 to the 08 glove box. I got everything apart today. There is NO WAY the filter tray is coming out. It hits the right support bracket for the glove box where the screw goes in. The alignment is way off from the slot in the back of the 08 glove box. I had to reassemble my orignal setup.

So you bought Subaru's updated/upgraded filter "kit" and it won't fit the 05s?

[jim1969]

No. I bought all the pieces Opie listed when he converted his 05 glove box to the 08 glove box so that he could use the cabin filter.
Now that I think of it, the retrofit kit was for certain VIN numbers. I have a very early build 05 ( I pre-ordered the car before it came out). Maybe they realized part way into 05 how far off the filter tray and air box were and adjusted them. There is no way my filter tray can come out of the air box. It's off to the right and higher than the slot it's supposed to come through on the back of the 08 glove box.

[Subietonic]

OIC. That's likely the reason and makes sense from an engineering/execution standpoint.

[jim1969]

now that I've got all the parts in my trunk...............

[gregnauman]

No. I bought all the pieces Opie listed when he converted his 05 glove box to the 08 glove box so that he could use the cabin filter.
Now that I think of it, the retrofit kit was for certain VIN numbers. I have a very early build 05 ( I pre-ordered the car before it came out). Maybe they realized part way into 05 how far off the filter tray and air box were and adjusted them. There is no way my filter tray can come out of the air box. It's off to the right and higher than the slot it's supposed to come through on the back of the 08 glove box.

Jim if you dont get it to work and need your money back let me know Ill buy the parts from you. I was getting ready to do the same thing and my car is an 05 with the hackjob conversion from the factory. I was going to remove the Subaru hackjob and get these parts.

Let me know if you have any luck if not email me at gregnauman@comcast.net.

Ill wait to order my parts until I hear from you, that way you wont be out the cash. ;)

[Subietonic]

GN - There are others in line ahead of you on this one.

[gregnauman]

Really I didnt see any posts to that affect. No problem though anyway

I just thought I would help him out if he didnt want to be out the money.

Ill just get them from www.thekingofparts.com (http://www.thekingofparts.com) then

[j255c]

I've had my car now for 2.5 years, and used to smoke in it a lot. You think i should do this? :lol:

[puzzled]

I have a very early build 05 ( I pre-ordered the car before it came out). Maybe they realized part way into 05 how far off the filter tray and air box were and adjusted them. There is no way my filter tray can come out of the air box. It's off to the right and higher than the slot it's supposed to come through on the back of the 08 glove box.

I also have an early build date for my car, but I was able to get the 08 parts to work.

No alignment issues. Just take the glove box out, remove the 4 pop-its to take off the little hatch door, and slide out the filter tray.

Just out of curiosity what is the build date (listed on the white sticker on the wall of the drivers door) on your car?