is it necessary to remove anything from the air intake cover simply to change air filters or is there enough play ?

 

Cooper or S? On the S, you unclamp the intake duct and unscrew the two screws up front. The back is not screwed on so you don't have to worry about that. The only other thing you need to do is pop the positive battery lead off it's holder on the left side of the air box. Tilt the front of the airbox up and you should be able to get to the filter. You have enough play (not a lot, but enough) to get the filter in and out.