I was using the K&N filter, but recently decided to go back to stock due to the risk of the oil coating over the MAF and the throttle butterfly (which looks like a pain to get to). I do miss the distinctive growl the K&N added though to the stock intake, plus the car was noticeably a little more responsive when hitting the gas from a dead stop.

 

how the hell can oil get deposited on the MAF and the throttle butteryfly i dont own a K&N filter but how could this happen by oiling the filter in excess? are you supposed to oil it inside and out?.

??????????

and electric motor cleaner? what is that like carb cleaner?

 

Your intake system is basically a big vaccum. Thus oil can get sucked out of the filter and through the MAF and into the throttle body's butterfly valve. I had mine for about 3000 miles and checked the MAF and it looked clean. But that doesn't mean oil can't get through. Likewise, you're trading off possible engine lifespan by going with aftermarket filters/intakes that bring in greater airflow and thus more dirt and dust. This is why I've been so hesitant to get an aftermarket intake for my 8. And I was very, very hesitant to buy the K&N filter but decided to just give it a try. Bottom line is, if you want to keep the engine at its cleanest, stick with the stock setup.

 

oh man i hope i dont get sucked up in there.

well then are there any good dry type aftermarket filters?

 

You should see no positive difference in fuel economy with a better flowing air filter on the account that the engine management system will only deliver as much fuel as the air volume demands. If you filter is dirty the fuel system will cut the amount of fuel that is delivered. A better flowing filter can increase house power by allowing more air and fuel to enter the engine but the stock system is pretty good so your not looking a a noticeable increase.

 

Wait! Dirty air filter = increased mileage?! Woot!

 

On a more serious note, is there any actual evidence that the K&N (or other aftermarket oiled filter) will cause the MAF or butterfly valve to accumulate more dirt than the stock filter?