K&N Filter Question

[BMWZ4]

I'm considering replacing the stock air filter in my z, with this part #:

http://www.knfilters.com/search/prod...x?Prod=33-2963

Question is, has anyone tried this filter in their z, Turbo or NA? I've used k&n filters in the past, but they were 'dry' versions, whereas this one is pre-oiled (and good for 50k miles). I went so far as to email k&n support and I have in writing from them that they would back any issues that might arise and have guaranteed me that if ANY oil were to find its way further into the system AND caused any issue whatsoever, AND if BMW were to refuse any warranty work as a result, that they would cover it.

In any case, question is really whether or not any e89 drivers have used these filters. I'm driving the 3.0 NA, 6MT 2011 btw.

Dave

[rmorin49]

I have a similar car, s30i with the 6MT. My question is why do you want to use this filter? The power gain will be minimal, if any. While they say the filter is good for 50K miles, your OEM filter will go probably about 30K miles unless you drive in extremely dusty conditions. I, too, have used some K&N filters but found them a pain to reoil and not worth the cost or effort to maintain. Personally, I would keep the car perfectly stock. In addition if you were to have issues with the fuel system your dealer may well try to blame the air filter despite what K&N is telling you. Just my 2 cents.

[bmwmick]

Originally Posted by Dave Marien

I'm considering replacing the stock air filter in my z, with this part #:

Dave,
Is this a car you are leasing and unloading in 2 or 3 years? If so, the K&N
would be OK. If you are planning on keeping the car or you own it, I'd stay as
far away from K&N as I could. They do NOT filter and the fine particles that get through do nothing but wear the rings. Snake oil.

Mick

[persian54]

if leasing, do the KN to get a slight sound difference

if owning, stay oem as bmwmick stated

[David9962000]

More info: http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=540874

[BMWZ4]

Thanks for your input guys. Definitely didn't think there would be any hp gains, but thought I might get a 'sound improvement'.

To answer your question; car is owned and I expect to keep it for some time yet. I think I'll stick with the stock filter.

Thx again
Dave

[Horsedoc67]

I have had a K&N replacement filter in my 2010 35i since new(now have 6800 mi) with no problems. I have used K&N filters for the last 25 yrs in a variety of cars & trucks and have never had any engine trouble (ie >oil consumption or low compression) related to the K&N. I would say that an increase in HP is very subjective. I've always used K&N because I was under the impression that they had superior filtering qualities, maybe I am wrong?

[bmwmick]

Originally Posted by Horsedoc67

I have had a K&N replacement filter in my 2010 35i since new(now have 6800 mi) with no problems. I have used K&N filters for the last 25 yrs in a variety of cars & trucks and have never had any engine trouble (ie >oil consumption or low compression) related to the K&N. I would say that an increase in HP is very subjective. I've always used K&N because I was under the impression that they had superior filtering qualities, maybe I am wrong?

doc,
Read this report when you have some extra time:
http://home.roadrunner.com/~jbplock/ISO5011/SPICER.htm
I doubt you'd notice any difference with fewer than 100K miles on
a K&N equiped engine. I've see quite a few motorcycle cylinders that
have unusual wear attributed to poor filtering from K&N-type filters.

PS, I'll trade 92 degrees in Tucson for your 71 degrees in Ventura.

[al1]

I wouldnt change the bmws filter with any aftermarket ones.. However if there is a cold air intake with a good heat shield, go with that.. you ll earn more hp and you ll hear the engine breathing much better..

But heat shield is the crunch point, without a good one, the engine will be sucking the damn hot air around the engine bay ... no bueno ...

[al1]

Actually Ive released after reading some articles that intercooler cools down the air sucked right before getting into intake manifold.. So power loss doesnt seem to be an issue for bms intake or any other ones without a heat shield ..

Ive been thinking about getting one, so I think I will, it is 95dollars, cant go wrong...

[Horsedoc67]

Thanks Mick
I read the link. Today I will be replacing the K&N in the Zed and in myFord E-450.

Horsedoc67

[cdeslandes]

I'm keeping the OEM air box and filter, but plan on changing the filter after 12,000 to 15,000 miles. It's amazing how dirty it gets by that point, especially if one drives in/near a city or a place with lots of tree pollen.