If you’re looking to boost the performance and sound of your BMW F80 M3 or F82 M4, upgrading or replacing the air intake system is one of the most effective and rewarding DIY modifications you can do. Whether you’re installing a high-performance aftermarket intake system like Eventuri, Dinan, VSRF, or simply replacing your factory air filters with a high flow filter, a new air intake on your S55-powered M3 or M4 is an easy way to unlock improved throttle response, better airflow and a more aggressive engine tone. In this guide, we will guide you step-by-step through the entire process with clear instructions and essential tips to replace your intake air filters.
Tools Required
- Wrench
- 6mm socket
- 10mm socket
- 13mm socket
- T20 torx bit
- Flathead driver
- Socket extensions
45
Minutes
2/5
Difficulty
BMC Performance Air Filter – S55
For this install I will be going with BMC air filters from ECS Tuning. I prefer to use factory airbox for now to eliminate any heat soak but gain performance with higher flowing filters.
1. Preparation
- Park your car on a flat surface and gather all your tools.
2. Remove Factory Strut Brace
- Start by prying the push clips on the cowling covers. There are 4 total clips, 2 on driver side and 2 on passenger side. Circled in blue.
- Remove 6 10mm nuts on the cowling covers, 3 on each side. Circled in red.
Note: 10mm nuts only need to be turned 90 degrees to unlock the tabs. Further rotation can damage the tabs.
- Remove 8 13mm bolts on the strut brace. Circled in red.
- Remove 1 10mm bolt on the strut brace holding the reservoir. Circled in blue.
- Remove the carbon fiber strut brace out of the way.
3. Remove Intake Filters
- Unclip mass airflow sensor (MAF) on each of the 2 intake boxes.
- Use a 6mm socket to loosen the hose clamps connecting the pipes and intake housing box on the passenger side. The driver has enough clearance to lift the lid in place without loosening the hose clamp.
- Loosen 14 T20 torx screws that are holding the intake top lid.
- Remove the lids.
- Optional step: you can choose to remove the factory charcoal filters for improved airflow and louder sound.
- Use a flathead to pry apart the tab and discard the charcoal filter. Circled in red.
- Remove factory intake air filters and replace with the new filters.
4. Reinstall In Reverse Order
- Torque value for the F80 M3 F82 M4 13mm carbon fiber strut brace bolts are 28 Nm or 21 ft-lbs.
5. Final Checks
- Double-check all connections, hose clamps, and sensor plugs.
- Start the car and let it idle for a few minutes.
- Listen for unusual noises or air leaks.
- Take the car for a short test drive and check for CEL (Check Engine Light).
