Aftermarket paper air filter?

I have not heard of a better paper filter than the OEM. I believe the cost is still around $11 from most dealers. I have not shopped this item because I have had K & N in my car since I added the AA CAI three years ago. I have not had any issues with the oil coming off of the filters and harming the MAFs as others here have. I may switch back to OEM because I hear that they flow just as well as K & N and there is no MAF issues to deal with.

Mark

The OEM filter has been taken apart - the amount of filtering media and pleats is pretty much second to none - so your likelihood of finding a filter appreciably better than OEM is minimal.

MAH said:

I may switch back to OEM because I hear that they flow just as well as K & N and there is no MAF issues to deal with.

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What I've also heard is that a good paper filter absolutely gives the best combination of filtering and flow...until it starts to clog. Under "normal" conditions I understand it to be around the 7K mile point where flow begins to be significantly affected. YMMV. So that's when I change mine, around 7K. MAH, how are you? I'll be driving down the coast again for the sixth time in five years shortly.

Stick with the OEM filters. If it is a price issue you can either order them from Pacific BMW for dirt cheap $$$ and/or become a BMW CCA member and save 20% on ALL parts purchases from BMW including parts used for service by the techs in house. The $35 a year annual fee is well worth it!

BKH said:

What I've also heard is that a good paper filter absolutely gives the best combination of filtering and flow...until it starts to clog. Under "normal" conditions I understand it to be around the 7K mile point where flow begins to be significantly affected. YMMV. So that's when I change mine, around 7K. MAH, how are you? I'll be driving down the coast again for the sixth time in five years shortly.

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I am doing well in humid Houston. Please don't rub it in about your drive down the coast. How many miles have you accumulated?

Mark

MAH, still under 40K miles. Definitely want to pile on the miles this year!

BMW filters are usually made by Mahle, MANN or KNECHT

BKH said:

MAH, still under 40K miles. Definitely want to pile on the miles this year!

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You should catch the Bay Area meet coming up. 50+ M5's would be great to see.

Mark