anyone using K&N Air Filters?
 

Are they really better than OEM?


http://www.knfilters.com/facts.htm

Not to stir up a big controversey, but there have been problems with K&N filters and Mass Air Flow sensors, particularly on BMWs. I know some folks say its because of over-oiling the filter (the filter is reusable by cleaning and re-oiling it) but I still wouldn't take the risk (have you priced a MAF sensor? If the dealer sees that you have a K&N they will void coverage for the MAF).

Just my $.02 but I would not do it. I'm sure others will disagree...

I disagree with you for no other reason than to disagree. ;)

I have heard the same thing and while I have used K&N's in other cars, including BMW's, I haven't bothered in the X5. I just don't see any benefit given the cost, the lack of any performance boost, and the potential MAF problems.

Several who have the 4.4 in their 5 series Bimmers tell me while you might see numbers go up on the dyno, and up just marginally, a K&N filter doesn't equate to a boost in performance. The X has a damn fine stock intake system, IMHO. On the other hand, a K&N is reusable, and about $35 at your local auto parts store, but as Chris pointed out, the oiling of the filter is kinda suspect. Somewhere on the MB forum I once lurked on was a post about some maroon putting olive oil on the K&N on his 500 SEC. The result was a car-b-q as you might imagine.

I run K&N on both my bimmers. As with anything, one should RTFM and use a little common sense and you shouldn't have any problems.

Don't expect any power gains with just the K&N filter. I noticed the engine revs a little easier (and louder) in my 330xi 5sp but the auto in the X5 masks any affect that might be there. I did notice a slight improvment in mileage on the X5 but I'm still breaking it in so it might not be attributed to the K&N at all.

I figure that I at least break even on the cost since they are reusable at least 3 times and filtering performance is as good if not better than stock.

I have had them in all my BMW's and my Porsche. The MAF issue is only a problem in over oiled filters. I have seen people soak them in oil. Use the oil sparingly and I have always wrapped the filet in newspaper overnight prior to install to get any excess off, just in case.

have any1 heard of bmc air filters
this wat am using for my car

I've got one in my Jeep and I've noticed no major changes to the mileage or the power. However, the mileage has stayed a consistent 15-16mpg for 109,000 miles so far. Also - I kinda enjoy cleaning and re-oiling the filter every 40,000 miles :dunno: :thumbup: and knowing I'll never have to buy a new filter for the Jeep every again.