What is the interval for replacing air filters. What about cabin air filters? Do I get extra power by replacing air filters?

 

Once a year is a good rule of thumb for both.
Exception would be if you live in a very dusty area.

 

During my 36 month initial maintenance period, my cabin air filter was changed under waranty at around 18K miles. I was informed that the air filter might not need changing until 50-60K miles; thus, no replacement air filter under the warranty period. However, I checked the filter myself at 20K and it most definitely needed changing. I did so at my own expense. IMO, there is a need to change out an air filter under the warranty period; that action is not a common one as I understand it by the dealer. Other comments?

 

I am at 70K miles and my filters have only been replaced once so far.

could you guys recommend some air filter and cabin air filter. I have been reading mixed views on K&N drop in filters.

 

I've got a NM CAI on mine so I don't use the drop in's anymore but I know
alot of owners get their filters from NAPA auto parts.
I don't personally think it matters but 70K to me is way too long a time frame. I'd stick with once a year.
There are filters out there that cost an arm and a leg and I just don't think you have to spend that much for a filter.
Also, I think K&N are fine.

 

I change the air filter every 10,000 miles and just use the Mini air filter from the dealer.

 

If you're looking for opinions on engine air filters, put me down in the "not K&N" camp. I think they filter worse than stock-type paper filters, and the oil on them can contaminate the air flow meter on the car.

I don't know yet what specific brand of filter I do like for the MINI (haven't gotten even near the first filter change yet), but a stock-type paper filter will almost certainly be what I get.