Residue near Air Cabin Filter

[Bobw4email]

Went searching and verified my new-to-me 2017 1500 Big Horn (30k miles) did indeed have the Air Cabin Filter door, but no filter. I ordered and installed with no problems.

But I noticed some residue spots of something I couldn't identify. Wasn't oily or particularly wet, and had no odor.
The vehicle is 'Certified PreOwned' so I have a 90 day warranty before my longer Power Train warranty kicks in.
Anyone have any idea what this might be? Is is a normal part of the manufacturing process? I can't imagine anything in this area failed (heater hose?).

 

[bhonshell37]

Could be residue from a previous K&N cabin filter. Some require oil to be applied.

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[crash68]

If I had to take a guess I would say either a cleaner or detailing spray used when the vehicle was cleaned before you bought it.
The K&N cabin filters don't use an oil on them, the engine air filter does. The cabin filters have an air freshener spray that helps the electrostatic abilities of the filter.

 

[KeepRight]

Is there a smell, sweet? Might be antifreeze, heater core... typically not that high up but possible.

 

[KeepRight]

Could be residue from a previous K&N cabin filter. Some require oil to be applied.

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Does the KN cabin filter need oil like the air filters?

 

[bhonshell37]

I was mistaken about the K&N cabin air filter needing oil.

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[Bobw4email]

If I had to take a guess I would say either a cleaner or detailing spray used when the vehicle was cleaned before you bought it.
The K&N cabin filters don't use an oil on them, the engine air filter does. The cabin filters have an air freshener spray that helps the electrostatic abilities of the filter.

Thanks! the truck really stunk with some kind of 'Freshener' when I bought it, so that is probably what it is. They went crazy with that stuff, so must have gotten everywhere.


And thank you too, bhonshell37. I have made a mess with that K & N oil in the past, so could see how that might happen