Hey all,

It has been a few years since I've been on here (4 to be exact!), but I'd like to gather some advice from you experts nonetheless.

I still have my old R53 05' Mini Cooper S and it is due for a smog check later this year (barely passing the last one). I will need to replace my CAI to pass smog in California. I currently have an Alta in there and after the last cleaning (I might have messed it up) it has been giving me some grief. It doesn't give my engine enough air so the engine starts to choke up when I give it a lot of throttle, and it also starts to choke up in the low RPMs.

So I've decided to kill two birds with one stone and get it replaced. What recommendations are out there for a good performance CAI that can pass smog in California?

Thanks in advance!
Avery

 

Hi Avery, How've you been?

I still have my Madness CAI, but I don't think it meets California rules. I'm not in California.

You might consider the JCW or going back to stock to get past the inspection.

 

A JCW will pass...
i believe if you can find a Dinian it also has a CARB sticker with it...they might still have a few left, but out of production for a few years....both are pretty quiet...too quiet for many.
If you messed up you filter, reclean it...an over oiled filter can mess up sensors quick....

 

Thanks for the responses guys. I've been pretty well! So it looks like my only options are JCW or Dinian then? Is there a place I can pick up a stock intake for cheap to pass smog with then?

Also, I am pretty sure my CAI is overoiled. I'll give cleaning it another shot. Thanks for the tip!

-Avery

 

Just remember, gauze (fabric) filters and Foam us different oil and cleaning kits....
if the car has been run with an over oiled filter, you might need to clean up a few sensors....the MAF sensors, if covered in oil can cause issues.....some makes/models of cars have a selfcleaning MAF where it is heated to burn crap off...the MINI, does not.

As for buying an OEM, check or post an add on the market....90% folks just toss them..so you might be able to get a used on on the cheap.

 

The JCW airbox is considered factory so you don't even need a sticker for it.

but I've also had many people get by with the black DDMworks airbox since it looks fairly stock to the untrained emission tester.

 

K&n typhoon has a carb sticker.

 

I don't get the emission issue with the intake but that's a discussion that's been had I'm sure... I can't add to helping you find an approved intake, but pulling the CAI off and reinstalling the factory one is an easy thing to do every couple of years..

 

AVERY!!!

Long time buddy! How have you been? I have no idea on stickered CAI, but I think I have my stocker I could send over to you.

For the over oiling issue you could clean it again, or just get a new filter.

Nik