Originally Posted by
onehundred80
The strange thing is it is on both ides of the filter and where the filter gasket sits. So presumably it was there back in 2012 when I changed the filter the first time. But I do not think I would have put it back if it looked like that.
I could find no trace of it on the filter or inside the housing.
So if this was discovered during the latest filter change, and the updated procedure you posted reflects that filter change, then the fact that the cabin filter separated from its frame would explain the debris on both sides of the filter. Whatever or wherever the source, the debris was able to bypass the filter element. Curious you didn't detect any debris coming from the HVAC ducting if debris bypassed the filter.
I tend to lean towards a label of some kind breaking up after all the years. But having changed the cabin filter in my car 2x since I've owned it, I can't recall seeing some type of label in the housing. Your updated write-up showed a lot of debris in & around the blower. Wonder if the source is within that section? Blower motor might have labeling that is starting to breakdown after years of exposure to various environmental conditions.
Let us know when & if you find the source of the debris.
Later,