I've had my 04' 530 (no mods) for 5 years now and have about 130K miles on it. I've kept it well maintained and it still looks great but I noticed that sometimes the power is a little lacking. Granted I do realize that after that many miles this can happen but I wanted to know if there was someting I could to give a little boost? Something not too expensive and easy to install. One person recommended a cold air intake, would this work by itself with no other mods? And are there negative long term effects? Any help would greatly appriciated.

 

I have the same car. I would not suggest CAI, it has been proven here that it doesn't work. Instead maybe look into a RPI scoop and bmc filter. As for other stuff, you may consider replacing the spark plugs if you haven't done so already. I personally have also went with a sprint booster to change throttle response. Recently I also removed my cats and went with SS headers, although this is not for everyone. Unfortunately I have come to terms with the fact that there just isn't much I can do to significantly increase performance on the m54 engines our cars have. I'm trying really hard to just be happy with what I have...

 

Any N/A power mods will not really be worth the $/hp ratio. And unless you get a tune, replace the airflow system, etc., you won't really notice any change in gains.

I did switch back to my stock exhaust and my car "feels" slower but I know it really isn't since it just doesn't have the deep growl it used to have. Try adding an exhaust and rpi scoop and bmc air filter and if anything, the sound of the exhaust will make your car feel faster. Good luck!

 

Thanks for the responses! I will definitely look into the RPI scoop with BMC air filter. Cleung, I have changed the spark plugs and I was afraid someone was gonna tell me the same thing you said about the M54 engine. I love my car but I just wanted a little more boost. How much of a difference did the sprint booster have the throttle response?

 

the sprint booster took away that initial lag when you step on the gas pedal.