How do I reset the change AC filter message

[Jim Henderson]

I am one of those tinkers who likes to repair, clean, rebuild a component before I will replace it with a new one. Or, maybe I am just cheap.

Anyway, my "Change AC Filter" message has been dinging me every time I start up. And since I don't have time to get to the dealer for something minor like that, I decided to pull the filter and clean it. Takes maybe 10 minutes all told including cleaning the filter with compressed air.

I am not sure how to reset the message. Can anyone tell me the method? the message says press reset for new. I am not sure that worked since the status button still results in a "change filter" message, but then maybe I have to drive around first.

BTW, the filter is a plain paper(or some synthetic) filter, very similar to generic engine air filters and is very easy to remove and replace. The cowl plugs/pins/whatever just need the center pushed down and then the plugs come up. The filter is in a box that has two locking tabs, one on left and right, that push in and pull up, then the filter slides right out.

Is there an aftermarket air filter? I would like to have the convenience of buying at my favorite parts store, and maybe save a few bucks.

Thanks, for any experienced guidence.

Jim Henderson

 

[NickLS]

Jim.. Here's what I do, I don't know if you have a message center or not.. But when I hit the status button it goes through the oil life, filter life, etc.... and it gives the percentage of the "life" left.. when it gets to the filter life.. HIT RESET.. then it'll prompt you to HOLD RESET... if you hold it for 2+ seconds, the center will flash back to 100%

Cabin filters are filters are filters are filters... It's all preference.. Some like purualtor (sp?), some like motorcraft, wix, fram, etc.... it's all what you like.. I personally looked at every filter myself and picked the one that looked the best.. some are paper thin, while some others are alittle thicker and made out of synthetic material.

To each his own... Aftermarket Cabin Filtes aren't going to give you a new 0-60 time or clean the air to 99.9% any better than the other... (well maybe alittle )

 

[Jim Henderson]

That's the trick. Thanks.

I interpreted the manual as saying go thru status till you got to the filter and then press and hold down the reset. It didn't look like press and release then press and hold.

Now it works fine. I can already feel the increased horse power and maybe even 2 more mpg ;^)

It will be interesting to see if this is just a filter cuckoo clock which will go off again at 15,000 miles or if it actually measures the air flow thru the filter and figures out the life. I think it will be just a cuckoo clock.

I will look around the stores for the ac filter now that it looks like there are some according to your post.

Thanks,

Jim Henderson

 

[jpslim]

I just bought an 01 LS and I have the same message. I'm just sure I can change it myself...I just can't find it. What do I need to look for? Also, I went to Auto Zone to pick one up and they weren't sure what it was. The guy behind the counter thought it might be a cabin filter and those were $20 and he would have to order it. Thanks

 

[TaraLS]

I just bought an 01 LS and I have the same message. I'm just sure I can change it myself...I just can't find it. What do I need to look for? Also, I went to Auto Zone to pick one up and they weren't sure what it was. The guy behind the counter thought it might be a cabin filter and those were $20 and he would have to order it. Thanks

Yeah that is what it is. I think I got mine from O'Reilly's for around $20. My dad changed mine for me, so I don't know how. All I know is that there are some little plastic clips that you have to watch out for or they will break. I found out where the AC filter was in my manual. :waving:

 

[luckieleo]

Yeah that is what it is. I think I got mine from O'Reilly's for around $20. My dad changed mine for me, so I don't know how. All I know is that there are some little plastic clips that you have to watch out for or they will break. I found out where the AC filter was in my manual. :waving:

http://www.lincolnsonline.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=9&t=000265

this should help too: http://www.lincolnsonline.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=9&t=000377

check out this link. its really quite simple. i just dont feel like re-typing it again. and yes, its the CABIN AIR FILTER. around $20. i got mine off fordpartsnetwork.com for $16.99, but the shipping is $7.99. if your ordering other stuff too, it would be worth it.

 

[DLS8K]

Just a note on those little plastic clips everyone seems to be breaking. They are really easy to use. Simply press the center down and pull up. To install, put the clips in the holes and then push the center pins in. Easy as that. Not that its that big of a deal but at about 1.50 a piece for those clips, I could find something else to buy (like gas)