GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

Was replacing my cabin air filter for the first time since buying my Vibe a few weeks ago, when I noticed another charcoal type filter above the cabin air filter that is angled up vertically in the housing. Does that filter come out for replacement too? I tried pulling it out because it is filthy to, but it wouldn't budge.

Of course first thing that happened was the fragile plastic access door for the filter broke off on my hand. Stupid plastic parts!

Man I just changed my cabin filter too. Next time I get the chance I have to check this out.

This may be a dumb question, but which way does the air flow through the filter? The old filter was apparently the original filter and came out in pieces. Does the air flow down through the filter to the fan? If so the air would actually flow through that charcoal type filter first.

Sonders wrote:This may be a dumb question, but which way does the air flow through the filter? The old filter was apparently the original filter and came out in pieces. Does the air flow down through the filter to the fan? If so the air would actually flow through that charcoal type filter first.

Yes. The inlet is in the cowl under the windshield upwards from the fan housing.

Don't feel bad, most of the cars that came into the dealership for quick lube have the filter backwards and I honestly suspect it doesn't matter.

I figured thats how it cycled and got it right; still wondering about that other charcoal type filter though.

Sonders wrote:still wondering about that other charcoal type filter though.

When in doubt, toss it out!




No, not really, don't do that.

Haha, I can't even figure out how to remove it.

Dug up an old pic I remember I had laying around... This guy?



If so, the foam piece is part of the door used for fresh air or recirculation. When toggling recirculate or fresh air modes you'll see this piece move. It moves out of the shown 'closed' position when recirculating, IIRC.

So just replace the paper element and call it done.

Yep, thats it. Guess I could have took a picture of what I was talking about earlier haha. Ok, so it does not come out? Mine is filthy brown and it would be nice to atleast clean it.

Sonders wrote:Of course first thing that happened was the fragile plastic access door for the filter broke off on my hand. Stupid plastic parts!

Yeah mine has been held in place by tape for a long time haha

I even used camo duct tape to hold mine on, so atleast you can't see it because it's camouflage haha :0

hahaha, perfect.