Although the K&N air filters are advertised as the best air filters everywhere, when i had my audi a6 everyone on audi forum recommened i dont use one, they said they let alot of dirt in and ruin the mass air flow sensor, is anyone having the same problems on the mazda3?

 

I had a panelin mine for about 20k. It had been oiled form the factory. i never had to clean it, though that wascoming up.
When I installed a Mazdaspeed/AEM CAI (dry synthetic filter) I suddenly started having problems w/CEL's. After cleaning the MAF several times, no problems. I can't say that it was due to the K&N, but it might've been. I also can't say that it was due to manufacturing dirt/dust left in the new filter as I did not check it before installation. It was in a sealed plastic bag and I "***-u-med" it was good to go. Silly me.

I think that as long as one doesn't make the age old mistake (and I have done it too in the past) and use too much oil after cleaningthe filter, everything would be OK.

Does that answer your question... or at least part of it?

 

I've used K&N filters for years on numerous Fuel Injected vehicles and have never had a problem...Like Virgin said, don't over-oil them and clean them regularly and you'll be fine.

 

i tihnk thats the main problem...
just the oil on the filter getting sucked up and gumming up the mass air flow sensor...

 

BUT, ifyou follow the instructions and not your eyes it works great.
Spray the center of the filter until it's just pink. Then wait an hour... two and it will be absorbed by the rest of the gauze and not be over oiled.

 

yes, but never under-estimate people tho.

 

thanks for the help everyone