Hi
To all the 3.0d owners, here is a link to another site with pictures of how to replace the air filter.
xdrivers.co.uk • View topic - changing air filter E53 30d

I can't believe BMW are dumb enough to make it his hard. According to other posts it is common practice for the dealers to charge for air filter replacement but not actually do it.

Another reason why I do my own maintenance. Only way to know for sure what oil goes in and what really gets replaced.