Your BMW’s engine, just like you, needs to breathe. And just like you, it doesn’t really like dirty air. That’s why air filters are one of the most crucial components in your vehicle. They play a vital role in keeping the engine clean and healthy. In this guide, we will explain why air filters are so important, how to choose the right air filter for your BMW, and how to troubleshoot a dirty filter.
Why Air Filters are So Important
The air filter is responsible for preventing dirt, dust, and debris from entering your engine. Without a clean air filter, these particles can build up in your engine and cause damage over time. A dirty air filter can also reduce your car’s performance and fuel efficiency, as it restricts airflow to the engine. In short, a clean air filter is essential for maintaining the health and longevity of your BMW.
How to Choose the Right Air Filter for Your BMW
When it comes to choosing an air filter for your BMW, there are two main options: the OEM filter or an aftermarket filter. The OEM filter is the original equipment manufacturer’s filter that was installed in your BMW at the factory. It is designed specifically for your vehicle and is the safest option for ensuring the best performance and longevity of your BMW.
Aftermarket filters, on the other hand, are made by third-party manufacturers and are often less expensive than OEM filters. However, not all aftermarket filters are created equal. Some may be less effective at filtering out particles, while others may not fit as well as OEM filters, which can lead to issues such as air leaks. That said, some of the best air filters out there are aftermarket. Brands such as Mann-Filter and others are known for delivering filtration performance that often surpass OEM.
When choosing an air filter for your BMW, it’s important to consider the driving conditions and environment. For example, if you frequently drive on dusty roads or in heavy traffic, you may want to choose a filter with a higher filtration rating to prevent more particles from entering your engine.
Use a Quality Filter — Know Your Brands
Just like with anything else, your choice of brand makes all the difference when it comes to air filters. Some drivers figure that air filter is just that — a filter, which is why they get whatever is closest on the shelf at their local parts store. However, there’s a lot more to air filters than that. Different brands use different kind of filtration media, which directly impacts their filters’ ability to stop prevent debris from entering the engine. Here are some of the brands you can trust to keep your BMW breathing clean air.
Mann-Filter
Mann-Filter is a well-known brand in the automotive industry that specializes in producing high-quality air filters for a wide range of vehicles, including BMWs. Mann-Filter air filters are designed using advanced filtration technology that sets them apart from other air filter brands.
Mann-Filter air filters are made using multi-layer filter media that includes a synthetic non-woven fabric, activated carbon, and a reinforced metal mesh. This multi-layered design helps to remove dust, dirt, and other particles from the air that enters the engine. The activated carbon layer also helps to eliminate unpleasant odors and harmful pollutants from the air.
One of the key features of Mann-Filter air filters is their high filtration efficiency. The multi-layer filter media can remove up to 99.9% of all contaminants from the air, including pollen, bacteria, and other harmful particles. This high level of filtration ensures that the engine is protected from damage and runs smoothly.
Another benefit of Mann-Filter air filters is their long service life. The multi-layer filter media is highly durable and can last up to 30,000 miles before needing to be replaced. This means that drivers can enjoy longer intervals between air filter changes, reducing maintenance costs and saving time.
Mann-Filter air filters for specific BMW models:
Mann-Filter air filter for BMW 325i E46
Mann-Filter air filter for BMW 330i E46
Mann-Filter air filter for BMW 328i E90
Mann-Filter air filter for BMW 335i E90
Mann-Filter air filter for BMW 330e F30
Mann-Filter air filter for BMW 535i E60
Get Mann-Filter air filters for your specific BMW!
Wix
Wix is a popular brand that has been producing air filters for BMWs and other vehicles for over decades. Wix air filters are designed using innovative filtration technology that ensures high performance and maximum engine protection.
One of the key features of Wix air filters is their high dirt-holding capacity. The filter media used in Wix air filters is a blend of cellulose fibers and synthetic materials, which allows them to capture and hold more dirt and debris than other filters. This means that Wix air filters can protect your BMW’s engine for longer periods of time before needing to be replaced.
Another advantage of Wix air filters is their efficiency in filtering out harmful particles from the air. The filter media used in Wix air filters is designed to remove up to 99.5% of dirt, dust, pollen, and other contaminants from the air that enters your BMW’s engine. This level of filtration ensures that your engine runs smoothly and efficiently, even in harsh driving conditions.
Wix air filters are also known for their durability and long service life. They are designed to withstand high temperatures and exposure to moisture and chemicals, ensuring that they provide reliable performance for the lifetime of the filter.
Wix air filters for specific BMW models:
Wix air filter for BMW 325i E46
Wix air filter for BMW 330i E46
Wix air filter for BMW 328i E90
Wix air filter for BMW 335i E90
Wix air filter for BMW 330e F30
Wix air filter for BMW 535i E60
Get Wix air filters for your specific BMW!
Mahle
Mahle is a renowned brand that produces air filters for BMWs using advanced filtration technology. Mahle air filters are made with a blend of synthetic materials and activated carbon to capture contaminants such as dirt, pollen, and even odors, providing superior filtration compared to standard air filters.
Mahle air filters are designed to provide maximum engine protection and optimal performance for your BMW. Their unique filter media has a higher dust holding capacity, which means they can trap more dirt and debris, and last longer than many other filters. This ensures that your engine stays protected and runs smoothly for longer periods of time, reducing maintenance costs.
Mahle air filters also feature an innovative sealing technology that creates a tight seal around the filter housing to prevent unfiltered air from entering the engine. This ensures that only clean air enters the engine, providing optimal performance and efficiency.
Furthermore, Mahle air filters are easy to install and come in various sizes and shapes to fit different BMW models. They are also designed to be environmentally friendly and can be recycled, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Mahle air filters for specific BMW models:
Mahle air filter for BMW 330i E46
Mahle air filter for BMW 328i E90
Mahle air filter for BMW 335i E90
Mahle air filter for BMW 535i E60
Get Mahle air filters for your specific BMW!
How to Troubleshoot a Dirty Filter
If you notice a decrease in your BMW’s performance or fuel efficiency, it may be due to a dirty air filter. Fortunately, checking and replacing your air filter is a relatively easy and inexpensive task.
To check your air filter, locate the air filter housing under the hood of your BMW. The housing is usually a black plastic box with clips or screws that hold the cover in place. Once you remove the cover, you should see the air filter inside. If the filter is dirty or clogged with debris, it’s time to replace it.
To replace the air filter, simply remove the old filter and insert the new one. Make sure the new filter is installed properly and that the cover is securely fastened. It’s a good idea to check your air filter regularly and replace it as needed, as a dirty filter can cause long-term damage to your engine.
Types of Air Filters
There are two main types of air filters for BMWs: paper filters and performance filters. Paper filters are the most common type and are made of pleated paper or other fibers. They are designed to trap dirt and debris while allowing air to flow freely through the engine.
Performance filters, also known as high-flow filters, are designed to provide better airflow to the engine. They are made of synthetic materials and are often washable and reusable. Performance filters can improve your BMW’s performance and increase its horsepower, but they may also allow more dirt and debris to enter the engine.
