This is the main reason I like the Knecht/Mahle filters with rubber ends. They are so much easier to remove and install (compared to hard end like Mann) without the fear of breaking the centre tab (or actually doing so). Knecht used to be the OEM filter when these came to market.

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E39 530dA -02 M-Sport Messing metallic
E53 X5 3.0dA -06 Sport Stratus grey
E70 X5 40d -12 M-Sport Space grey