09 non-s mini base model 1.6 n12
crankcase breather hose from the valve cover broke. Is this needed or can I put a regular breather filter like the small 2-3" diameter ones at the valve cover and where it connected at the other end?

 

If you add those “breather filters”, you’ll just be creating new issues.

Here is the part diagram:
https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/sho...diagId=11_3915

I would get used to navigating realoem.com for finding part numbers.

For the cost of replacement, I would get a new tube:
https://www.realoem.com/bmw/enUS/sho...diagId=11_3915