I purchased a replacement K&N air filter for my 2012 535i and just got it and noticed it doesn't have a cabin air filter like the factory one. Is it really not needed? Should I not install it? Thoughts?

 

cabin air filters are housed in their own filter housings, they are located against the firewall and are accessible using a 10mm socket and a screwdriver to unlock the retainer. there are 2 per car. they have nothing to do with the engine air filter.

I live in FL also, and I haven't installed an aftermarket filter due to the amount of sand we have in the air around here. I stuck with an OE air filter, but that's just my opinion.

cheers.

 

Got it. So that white felt-like material on top of the original filter is what I'm referring to. See photo above for reference. I assumed that was some type of cabin filter, but whatever it is, do I not need it when I install a K&N filter?

Thank you.