My climate control had been unable to hold a constant temperature, so along with replacing the flap actuator Servo I gave the cabin air temperature sensor a clean, and it's now working as it should.

I thought I would post a couple of pictures as I couldn't find any when I was searching. The sensor has a tube which sucks air (and dust) in, and as you can see it was well clogged up.

Good call - I have just done the same based on your finding. My aircon was working fine, at the front at least.

I needed a flat screwdriver on one side and a trim removal tool on the other to undo the clips

Mine was almost as fluffed up.

The plastic air tube just needs pulling off after a twist to break the decades old 'seal' that had built up.

The electricval connector was the expected 'press tab' type.

I would add that I unclipped the sides to open the unit (Denso 077500-5250 / Toyota 88625-58020) up and found the circuit board was still fluffy so cleaned that also.

Next job will be the rear one, which I believe is this object:

I just need to empty the boot to get at it :-)

It looks like it should be removable easily enough - has anyone tried this?

I hope this helps.

Edited April 5Apr 5 by Gamith
Added Toyota part number.

I think the rear one with a pipe that sucks air through it is here, and looks a bit more complicated to access.

That sounds right

the rear cabin temp sensor is often tucked well away on the HVAC casing, usually behind the glovebox or down the centre console, so it can be fiddlier to get at. Practical approach that has worked for others: remove the relevant lower trim or glovebox panel using a trim tool and a small flat screwdriver for the clips, follow the small air tube to the sensor, then twist and pull the tube off rather than yanking it.

Take photos as you go so you can refit everything the same way. For cleaning, use a soft brush, a vacuum or a short blast of compressed air to clear the fluff from the tube and sensor housing. If you need to wipe anything, use a barely damp cotton bud with isopropyl alcohol and be careful not to soak the sensor. Avoid forcing electrical clips; depress the tab and ease the connector off.

Refit in reverse, test the climate control before fully reassembling and let us know if that sorts it pictures of the mounting and the tube help others who want to follow your steps.

Good luck!!