Replacing an engine air filter DIY?
 

I'd at least like to be able to replace the engine air filter myself but I'm not sure if removing the screws with a t25 torx driver is everything there is to it. My research tells me, depending on a model, I may need to fiddle with the air mass flow meter connector and a 10mm socket. How should I go about it?

http://www.realoem.com/bmw/diagrams/h/u/239.png
I unclipped the six metal clips holding the cover of the intake muffler. Unfastened the hose clamp(10) and got stuck. The intake muffler(1) and the rubber boot with resonator(11) seem like they are connected and soldered together. So I couldn't take the cover off.

When I fastened the hose clamp back on, the extra bit that comes from tightening the metal band didn't align with the rest, so I unscrewed it and tried it again. While doing that I dropped the flat screwdriver in the engine compartment and I had to go under the car, partially open the metal cover that protects the front mid section of the underbody and use a long stick to get it. It was a freakily scary experience.

Maybe your is a lot different from mine, but after unclipping the cover why are you trying to go any farther? Can't you slide out the old filter at this point?

When I read your post, it sound like you are trying to replace the air filter by removing the entire air filter box. LOL

I haven't changed the air filter in the X5 myself yet, but for all the other BMWs I own, you just unclip the the clips and open the top cover and replace the filters. No tools needed (maybe a flat head screw driver if your hand can't reach some of the clips)

The top cover doesn't come completely off, it flexes a bit, just enough to get the old filter out and put a new filter in.

BTW, on mine, when I unclipped one of the clips on the rear of the box, it popped off - luckily not to some place where I could not find it. So, be sure to hold them firm when unclipping them.

Thanks guys! I'll try that way. I thought I'd have to remove the whole top in order to replace the air filter. After unclipping the six metal clips, it felt like something was still holding on to the cover even to slightly open and slide the old air filter out. Also I didn't want to force the cover up and open since I didn't want to break off the link(10 on the pic) between the muffler and the rubber boot. They look fragile.

How can I align the hose clip? I tried more than ten times releasing and screwing again and again, but it just won't line up with the rest. I thought unclipping it would allow me to free the air intake muffler cover, but shouldn't have touched it.

Also is it possible for me to tighten the metal hose too hard? I tightened the screw as hard as it would allow me. I wouldn't restrict the air flow would I?