Description
The Mishimoto MMAI-E46-01BK is a purpose-built performance air intake engineered specifically for the BMW E46 chassis powered by the M54B30 engine. On the dyno, this cold air intake has shown peak gains of 7 whp and 9 wtq while running the stock tune, backing up its aggressive intake tone with real, measured results. It pairs a high-flow oiled cotton air filter with a black powder-coated steel heatshield to deliver a smooth, free-flowing path for cooler, denser air.
As a true bolt-on air intake system, this Mishimoto cold air intake filter setup is designed to be a drop-in upgrade rather than a project requiring tuning or fabrication. The multi-layered cotton filter element offers more filtration surface area than the factory paper filter it replaces, and because it’s a reusable intake filter, it can be cleaned and re-oiled rather than thrown away. The stock E46 intake duct is retained to continue feeding cool air to the filter, while the included silicone intake hose with integrated CNC pipe and the pre-assembled protective edging on the heatshield work together to seal out underhood heat. Whether you’re comparing this to other cold air intakes on the market or simply want an intake filter that improves airflow and sound without complicating ownership, this kit is built to run safely on the stock tune without upsetting air/fuel ratios under load.
Vehicle Applications
This Mishimoto air intake is designed for the E46-chassis BMW 3 Series equipped with the M54B30 engine. It fits the BMW 330Ci across 2001–2006, including the 2005 330Ci M, as well as the BMW 330i from 2001–2005 and the 2005 330i M. The BMW 330xi is also covered for the 2001–2005 model years. This targeted fitment keeps the kit a true direct-fit solution for E46 330-series owners rather than a generic universal intake.
Features
- Direct fit for the 2001-2006 BMW 330i and related E46 330-series trims
- Dyno proven peak gains of 7 whp and 9 wtq on the stock tune
- Highly aggressive intake tone under acceleration
- No tune required and safe for use with the stock tune
- Compatible with the stock intake duct or Mishimoto Silicone Intake Hoses
- Black powder-coated steel heatshield with pre-assembled rubber trim keeps hot engine air out
- Mishimoto High-Flow Oiled Air Filter receives maximum airflow from the front of the vehicle
- Smooth design eliminates restrictions and improves airflow
- Utilizes the stock air inlet duct
- Installs in about one hour using common hand tools
- Backed by the Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty
Specifications
- Filter Material: Multi-layered cotton
- Filter Color: Red
- Filter Diameter: 3.5 inches
- Air Filter Part Number: MMAF-3506
- Hose Material: Silicone
- Hose Color: Black
- Finish: Painted
- Grade Type: Performance
- Engine Code: M54B30
- Chassis Code: E46
- Kit Includes: (1) Silicone Intake Hose w/ Integrated CNC Pipe, (1) High-Flow Oiled Filter, (1) Heatshield w/ Pre-assembled Protective Edging Hardware, Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this Mishimoto air intake require a tune for the BMW E46 330i?
No. This intake is safe to use with the stock tune and will not hurt air/fuel ratios under load, so no tune is required.
Which BMW E46 vehicles does this air intake fit?
This intake fits the BMW 330Ci from 2001–2006 (including the 2005 330Ci M), the BMW 330i from 2001–2005 (including the 2005 330i M), and the BMW 330xi from 2001–2005.
What performance gains can I expect from this intake?
Mishimoto has dyno proven peak gains of 7 whp and 9 wtq on the stock tune with this intake.
Can the air filter be cleaned and reused?
Yes. The Mishimoto oiled air filter can be cleaned and reused, providing a lifetime of service. Mishimoto recommends cleaning and re-oiling the filter every 10,000–15,000 miles during normal driving, and servicing it more often in dusty or off-road conditions.
What is included with this Mishimoto intake kit?
The kit includes a silicone intake hose with integrated CNC pipe, a high-flow oiled filter, a heatshield with pre-assembled protective edging hardware, and the Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty.
How long does installation take?
This intake is a complete bolt-on kit that can be installed in about one hour using common hand tools.
âš WARNING (California Proposition 65): This product can expose you to chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and/or birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Not CARB approved. This item is not legal for sale or use on pollution-controlled motor vehicles in California or states that adopt California emissions standards. Intended for off-road / competition use where permitted by law.
