TRD air filter Alternative
 

So after doing some research it appears that trd air filters are on contractial agreement with different air filter production companies such as AFE and k&n from one year to another depending on who gives them a better deal for production of the components. Depending on what company makes the air filter for trd that year, the part number would change. It also appears that the trd air filters for the twins are also the same trd filters used on the matrix from years 2003-2008 but sometime inbetween 04 and 05 the contract for the production of the filters went from afe to k&n. I managed to purchase a new 03 afe produced trd filter for the matrix today for $20. I am assuming the filter should be in very good condition and should work perfectly fine being as these filters are ment to last a lifetime. The part number i found it under is 00602-17801-010 . If you take a close look at this filter it looks exactly the same as the AFE filters currently on sale for the FRS regarding its shape design. Please correct me if any of the info i posted may be wrong but i just wanted to let people know in case they manage to find one than they can save some money on buying a new filter. Also any input would be appreciated just in case someone may think its not a good idea to use a filter that is over 10 years old but new in box. I am assuming it will work just fine as they are ment to last a lifetime. Also does anyone know if i could use k&n cleaner and oil on these filters or would i have to use thr trd products to be safe? Im also assuming the k&n products should work just fine as long as i do not over oil and let properly dry.

If it is an unused filter, I don't see why using a 10yo filter will make a difference. Question though: are all those filters oiled? I was thinking an AFE dry filter at a lower price would be very much welcomed in my car.

Keep us posted.

im running a afe dry filter in my brz right now

I'm also running an AFE filter i got it for like $55 shipped from autoanything.com. It's nice because you can clean it with light detergent and water.

So the filter seems to fit very tight inside the airbox i have read of other people encountering same issue with the afe filter. Any input on fitment? Also i had to re oil the filter as it was over 10 years old and seemed kinda dry. Just like the k&n filters it has tiny holes gaps that you can see through when holding up in the light. Doesnt seem too safe for the engine but this appears to be common issue with performance filters as well. Any thoughts?

I also have the AFe dry filter which I picked up at a local tuning shop. It does fit tight but I think that's the way it's designed (peace of mind that the box is sealed). If it's not in your budget maybe stick with the factory filter until you can afford an unused easier-breathing aftermarket element. No reason to take a chance to save a few $$.

Unused? I never mentioned anything about purchasing a used filter. Who would do such a thing? Thats how i feel, i think it fits very tight as well but i just want to be sure its ment to be that way. It is super tight compared to the stock filter