Changing the Air Filter on BMW 3 Series E46

Remove the cabin filter by unscrewing the 3 small plastic screws by hand 1/4 turn.

Pull the cover towards you.

Remove the filtre habitacle

Unclip the small plastic connector at the bottom, remove the 2 cables inside.

Remove the 4 top screws then remove the bracket.

Access the small screw at the very back of the case. filtre à air

Unscrew the 5 screws from the engine cover

Remove the staples

Locate the location of the box then remove the air sleeve by unscrewing the small red screw.

Remove the 4 screws from the case including the one at the back (almost invisible to the naked eye).

Remove the case.

Remove the filter from its location by first pulling it towards the back and then lifting the front

Blow the filter holder with a blower.

Place the new filter by inserting the hollow part (right side) in the intended location. To know the direction of installation there is a small nipple at the back of the filter which will point downwards (there is a location provided on the support).

Reassemble the case (be careful, the screw on the bottom is difficult to replace),

Go back up in the opposite direction