Although it may often get overlooked or forgotten about, the air filter in your MINI is an essential component to enable your engine to operate at its best.
Not only will it help to block harmful dust, dirt and other debris from entering the engine, the filter will make sure that there’s an efficient air-to-fuel balance present in the engine.
As with most types of filters, they start to lose their effectiveness if they become too contaminated. For your MINI, if your air filter becomes too clogged up with dirt then less oxygen may be able to enter the engine. This could not only cause a noticeable drop in performance but can result in damage to spark plugs, misfires or other engine damage if it’s not rectified.
When should you change your air filter?
How often you should change your air filter depends on a few different factors, such as mileage, frequency of use and if your car is being used for track or race days.
As changing an air filter is a relatively inexpensive and simple bit of maintenance, usually it’s advisable that you replace it on an annual basis, although your handbook may provide more tailored suggestions.
If you’re using your car for more intense track or race days, it’s a good idea to change the filter at least every 10,000 miles to keep your MINI running at its best.
Aftermarket vs OEM air filters
As with many MINI parts, you are not bound by OEM parts if you’re replacing your air filter as there is a comprehensive range of aftermarket options available to purchase. These filters provide exceptional performance output and improved airflow capability.
At Lohen we stock 3 main brands of aftermarket air filters for MINI:
If you’re opting for an aftermarket part, it’s extremely important to check that your replacement will fit your MINI model before purchase and provides better protection from dust and debris than a paper OEM filter.
How to change a MINI air filter
Replacing your MINI’s air filter isn’t an overly difficult job and can be done on the driveway without a huge range of tools. It’s important to make sure that you’ve everything you need before you start though to avoid any damage.
Follow the steps below carefully and you’ll be able to carry out the job yourself. If you need any guidance or advice, feel free to contact our team on 01785 859999 or sales@lohen.co.uk
Equipment required
1x performance air filter (we recommend the ITG Foam Filter)
1x ITG Air Filter Cleaning Kit (optional)
1x flat-headed screwdriver or 8mm socket
1x Torx T20 screwdriver
Step by Step Guide
Step 1
Open and prop up the bonnet then locate the airbox, which is towards the rear of the engine.
Step 2
Using a flat-headed screwdriver, unscrew the jubilee clip which secures the intake pipe. Once it has been sufficiently loosened, remove the intake pipe by sliding it out.
Step 3
At the front of the airbox casing there are two fastening screws, which will need removing in order for you to gain access to the filter. Use a T20 Torx screwdriver for this, or an 8mm socket.
Step 4
Next, unclip the battery jumping point. To remove the airbox, simply lift up at the front and unclip at the back.
Step 5
Once the airbox is safely out of the way, remove the old air filter.
If you’re removing your filter to be cleaned, then you’ll need to apply another coat of oil. We recommend the ITG Air Filter Cleaning Kit, which removes grime and reapplies oil to catch additional dust particles.
Step 6
If you’re fitting a new performance filter, like one of ITG’s foam filters, they usually come pre oiled. Place the filter in the housing and ensure that it fits without any gaps.
Step 7
Once the filter is installed, follow these steps in reverse to rebuild the airbox, making sure that the filter cover and intake hose are both secure.
So there you have it, a simple yet effective maintenance task that can be carried out at home.
If you need any help or advice in choosing the best air filter for your MINI or would like to book in for a fitting, please contact our team on 01785 859999 or sales@lohen.co.uk