I want to install a CAI in my MINI but I read somewhere that it is illegal to do so in CA. Is there a workaround? Will I still be able to pass smog checks?

TIA.

 

How about keeping your stock airbox so you can swap it when you need to get the smog cert?

JCW intake is also an option if you don't want to go through that "hassle". Good luck!

 

I guess that's an option. My problem is, I'm not a DIY guy so swapping it can be a bit of a problem for me.

 

Although not as sexy as say, a DoS or DDM intake, the JCW intake isn't a bad product. Intakes for our cars are mostly for sound. Jan @ RMW has suggested the JCW intake makes the best performance gains, at least with his tune. Since you have a new car, and don't really want to install stuff on your own, I think the JCW intake makes the most sense. I got the JCW exhaust (for looks and sound) over the Invidia Q300 (my first choice) purely for the warranty factor. It's not for everyone, but if you like that "big company insurance" thing then it's an option. Good luck!

 

As far as DIY goes, it doesn't get much easier than a CAI. Two torx screws, pop the oem clamp and replace with a standard screw clamp.
If nothing else, contact SDMC or other local club, odds are the install will cost you a beer.

That said, I got mine smogged last year. Can't remember if I had the Madness intake or the Dinan (the latter, I think) and they didn't look twice.

 

Dinan is Smog certified, if you can find one. It is also a very good intake to combat heatsoak, as it is quite thick plastic.

 

NM intakes are CARB exempt...

http://www.nm-eng.com/news/26/carb-e...-is-final.html

 

K & N (Typhoon) is certified ...

I really think that so many of the CAIs look stock (as long as it isnt Bright Red or something) that the tester wouldn't look twice.

 

Thanks for the replies.

I am actually looking at K&N Typhoon only because my service advisor told me aftermarket intakes will void my warranty except for anything K&N. I almost settled for a drop-in filter!

 

Legally they cannot void your warranty. Just a heads up they just tell customers that it will because they do not want you to bring in the car for warranty work if you royally screw something up (which IF they can prove that your mod/install flubbed up your engine then they can "void" that part of your warranty. IE: your intake filter fell off and it sucked in dirt and clogged your valves and engine" Then they are not liable.

 

Is that true? Thanks for the information!

 

Go with an NM intake.

 

I suggest either the JCW or the NM intake. Both will be legal for you.

 

I'll look into it. How is it better than K&N?

 

I read somewhere that you have an installer somewhere here in San Diego. If I buy from you, do you know how much he'll charge for installation?

 

Absolutely true. Google for Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act for some terrific light reading.

 

nics.sd
Just want to give you a little encouragement, if you can change a tire you can change your intake yourself. They all come with good instructions, and you need some basic tools. Save some $ and learn to DIY, might even find out it's fun. Take care and good luck.

 

Thanks, Maugre. I think I can do it, I'm just worried I might break something. But everyone's been telling me that an intake should be easy. I'll give it a shot!

 

If you bought an intake from us he would prob do it for the price of lunch.

 

wow ... got to give it to Way Motor Works , for always getting their name out there

The OP is in San Diego and Way is in Atlanta ... ohhh .. yes but they will install for free just a 4000+ mile round trip ...

 

So I think I've made my decision. I think I want to go with the DoS CAI. I figured I can just swap the OEM intake come smog check time.

What do you guys think? I'm still a little bit worried about the warranty though.

 

hey "nic.sd"

Really the swap is easy . and most smog techs wouldn't look.
If your sig tells me you have a '11 you have years till that is a worry.

As far as warrantee goes ...search for more info here and also search "magnuson moss warranty act aftermarket" your aftermarket BOV that you already have will raise more eyelids than a CAI

 

Dos intake is awesome! I wouldn't worry about voiding a warranty... Keep us updated

 

Why would a CAI be illegal? I did a quick search and all I read are laws against modifying the emissions system. The intake just filters the air entering the engine, so why would that be a problem? (I just want to understand the logic behind the law.)

 

DoS CAI it is! After doing lots of research, I believe this is the right way to go.

I already emailed Clint. Now all I have to do is wait!