[Rick4345]

Has anyone been brave enough to figure out how to change the air filter? I just ordered a K&N filter for my car and was wondering how difficult it is. Thanks in advance!!

[Rick4345]

I found out how to do it. I gave a call to Robert at K&N. I sent him a picture of the engine bay. First, unsnap the four silver clips on the left. Then you have to loosen up the intake tube from the mass air flow sensor. Give a gentle tug on the rubber mounts and you're in business. The mounts are pliable enough you can pinch them together and make the process a little easier.

[Dabaitu]

A drop in filter should be easy to do, are you trying to explain removing the air-box and fitting a cone setup?

[Rick4345]

No, Just the drop in filter. For some it's easy and obvious. For people like me, not so much.....

[jj970]

Originally Posted by Rick4345

No, Just the drop in filter. For some it's easy and obvious. For people like me, not so much.....

Why did you change the filter already?

[Rick4345]

I replaced the filter for hopefully a little better performance and mileage. I have them in everything from my work car to my motorcycle. It may just be my imagination, but I have used them for about fifteen years easy. They have a million mile guarantee and can go about 50,000 miles without cleaning. Plus, under the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act, it won't screw up your warranty.

[Dabaitu]

I was doing some searching on this a few days ago, as I'd like to put a K&N or BMC filter in my car when it arrives.

I believe the flat-panel replacement for the E9x will fit in the F30.

[TJF30]

Wonder if BMC already makes one that fits the 328i / F30?

[steadymoddn504]

afe makes replacement filters for the f30. there's the option of a wet and dry filter material.. haven't done this mod yet, but will soon. stock air filters always hinder a little performance (and overall sound imo)

[Mrcarcrazy]

Originally Posted by steadymoddn504

afe makes replacement filters for the f30. there's the option of a wet and dry filter material.. haven't done this mod yet, but will soon. stock air filters always hinder a little performance (and overall sound imo)

Dyno proof?

[legaleye3000]

So is it really worth it to put an aftermarket (K&N, etc.) air filter in? Thanks.

[ocso1606]

There cant be much diff in performance with a drop in filter..can there?

[schnell13]

Gentlemen and Ladies,

This guide is intended to help anyone install their new K&N, aFe, etc. replacement air filters. This is also intended for the 335 with a standard air box, or, NOT replaced with a CAI.

Reasons for getting a high-flow filter:
1. Our cars have a TURBO. This means that they'll run a bit hot over their NA cousins, along with needing more air for more proper combustion with the forced induction. I say let's give it to them!!
2. As others have said, it won't void your warranty, will give you (slightly) more hp, (slightly) better gas milege, and doesn't have to ever get replaced. So it pays for itself after 2-3 replacement filters. I've had a K&N in my Corvette, Mazda3, Altima SE-R and previous 328Ci, and have experienced noticeable gains in hp, torque, and fuel economy after their installation.
3. It's so easy (yes, if a caveman drove an F30, he could do it to!)

Steps:
1. Pop the hood
2. Locate the 4 silver tabs holding the top of the air cleaner box in place. If you are facing the vehicle looking into the engine bay, there will be two on the right side, one on the top left, and one on the left side.
3. Pry them loose using finger pressure. Be careful that they stay in place. I almost lost one into the depths of the engine bay!!
4. Gently lift up the top of the air cleaner box and remove the stock filter. I found that I had plenty of room to remove the old filter without disconnecting anything.
5. Place your replacement filter, drop the lid on top of it (it guides itself back into place with its tabs), lock it back in place with the tabs, and you're finished!
6. Place the accompanying sticker somewhere conspicuous on the car. You'll get 10 hp from that mod alone!!

Enjoy, and happy motoring!

[schnell13]

As an addendum to the previous install guide, here is the part number for the K&N filter: 33-2997. I used the configurator tool on K&N's website and had it shipped directly from them. The filter fit perfectly. Hope this helps!

[dipak]

I did a search on K&N website for my 328 and the number is K&N 33-2990

[shivaswrath]

I'll do it after the 50k service is up...why pay to replace a filter they'll replace for free?

[Jeff_in_Oviedo]

Note, The K&N 33-2997 Filter is available on amazon for ~$37, versus the ~$55 on the K&N website.

Amazon link below, for those interested.
http://www.amazon.com/33-2997-Replac...=K%26N+33-2997

[momo3605]

I know horsepower isn't a reason to get the filter, but can anyone who's installed an aftermarket filter comment on sound or fuel economy?

[Thrillbilly]

I put the K&N filter in my 335 (Amazon $37) when I did my oil change. much higher quality over the stock Mahle paper filter. Very easy, straight forward remove and replace air filter.