K&N filter

[BmR]

I'm sure this is an old question, but searching did not return anything. I have a 2003 M45 and was told by the dealership not to use a K&N air filter in my car as it will damage the engine. Any truth to this? Thanks.

[Ilya]

Yes. STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM K&N. Nissan motors use SUPER sensitive Mass Airflow Sensors (MAF) which get covered in the oil used by K&N and can lead to issues. For my car, the sensor is $210. It's not a guarantee you'll screw up your MAF, but I had it happen to me on my 1999 Nissan Maxima and I learned my lesson.

Get a good ol panel air filter and call it a day.

Also, welcome to the forum.

[Larz]

I could not agree more. Tests proved that the K&N, like CAI'sa and most intake modifications only provide minimal benefits at best, and the fibers / oil in the K&N filters cause trouble on our cars.
I buy OEM filters from Infiniti dealers on Ebay (Circle Infiniti in NJ) for a great price - higher than the bargain brands at parts store, but it's much less costly than buying form a dealer parts dept.

[BmR]

@Ilya and Larz. Thank you both very much for the feedback. No K&N. I look forward to addl input on my car. Great forum.

[cfrankling]

Have one on my 2006 M3 since 3 months ago, haven't had any issues with airflow sensor but I ain't waiting for it to happen, so I will get me a new original filter today.

Great info, great forum, thanks guys for keeping us in check with our beloved M's