DJ2Max

iTrader: (11)

can anyone tell me the beneffits of having a K&N filter (not drop in just replacement filter for stock box) performance wise?

spiromax

The K&N filter that fits in the stock air box and replaces the OEM filter is the same thing as a K&N "drop-in" filter.

You're probably confusing the "drop-in" filter with the K&N cone filters that people attach to their cold air intakes and short ram intakes to replace the entire stock intake and airbox assembly.

The benefits of using the OEM-replacement "drop-in" filter with the stock airbox are minimal. It really does flow better, so you might see some slight power gains, but since you're still using the restrictive stock intake/airbox assembly, you won't see huge gains. I guess that after a long time you might start saving money, since the K&N filter is washable and reusable, but the initial cost of a K&N filter is higher than the cost of a disposable paper filter, so I don't know if that's really a good argument.

I'm not saying it's a bad idea to get a K&N filter to replace your stock filter. Just don't expect to see much power gain from it.

Puppetmaster

iTrader: (48)

I think you're right, that's the only real benefit from a K&N drop-in....

Puppetmaster

iTrader: (48)

Actually, the K&Ns come with a word of caution for our Maximas with weak MAFs... when ya clean em and re-oil em, be careful not to over-oil the filter because apparently that could possibly lead to MAF problems when excess oil gets sucked in.... its never happened to me, but it seems that others have had this problem.... or at least, the filter oil is the suspected cause, although MAFs have been known to blow even with the OEM paper filters....

BLUEMAX01SE

i've always used a k&n drop-in filter since i bought my car in 01, but just recently earlier this yr, i had my maf meter (not the actual sensor) go out. of course the dealer/service writer seen it was not an oem air filter and totally put the blame on the k&n filter for my maf meter going out. not covered under warranty, and man i was so piaassed. i argued back and forth with these idiots and they were not havin it. i had to pay $300 for the repair and part. the max always felt better with the k&n in it, but there is really no huge power gain. good luck to all those with k&n drop ins and i hope u dont have to go thru the same thing i had to go thru at the dealer for using an aftermarket air filter. peace

Puppetmaster

iTrader: (48)

I know its already after the fact, but if it happens again, ya should put in the OEM filter before trying to get a warranty repair.... besides, the fact that the K&N filter caused it is debatable... (although probable)... anyways... sorry to hear about the repair costs and the hassle...