Was checking the oil, thought I would look at the airfilter for the first time (given some of you having oil pooling in the intake.

Anyway, I am having a hard time getting it to open more than an inch. It just seems to be stuck, and I am afraid to try to force it.

So, is there a trick I don't know about. According to the manual, it should open right up (after doing the clips and disconnecting the one wiring harness).

BTW: Looks like one of my engine cover grommets is missing (per the TSB). First time I noticed. (I'll probably wait for some other service reason before I get it fixed.)

Reeko-

I did just that this weekend. Like you I wanted to check the intake/filter for oil. Yes it is a PITA! I just removed the whole box. Undo the plug on the top of the MAF, Loosen up the screw on the rubber snorkle and then push back on the front edge of the box to remove it from the grommets. Then lift it up and out. Hell this thing is easy compared to the airbox on my old Passat W8!