Description
The Mishimoto MMAI-E46-99BK is a performance air intake engineered specifically for the BMW E46 chassis, pairing a high-flow oiled cotton filter with a black powder-coated steel heatshield to reshape how these inline-six engines breathe. Designed to run safely on the stock tune without hurting air/fuel ratios under load, this kit is also known for delivering an aggressive, amplified induction tone that Mishimoto highlights in its own demo video.
As a bolt-on cold air intake, this system replaces the restrictive factory paper filter setup with a fully serviceable oiled air filter and a free-flowing design intended to reduce restriction and improve airflow into the engine. The stock intake duct is retained to continue feeding cool outside air to the filter, while the included heatshield with pre-assembled rubber trim helps block hot underhood air from reaching the filter element. Because the kit works with either the factory intake hose setup or Mishimoto’s own silicone intake hoses, owners have flexibility when building out their intake system, and the reusable, cleanable filter is built to provide long-term service life rather than routine replacement.
Vehicle Applications
This Mishimoto air intake is built for the BMW E46 chassis and covers a broad span of 3 Series trims and model years. Coverage includes the 1999–2001 323i and the 1999 323is, the 2000 323Ci, the 1999–2000 328i and 328is along with the 2000 328Ci, the 2001–2005 325i and 325xi, the 2001–2006 325Ci, and the 320i for the 2001 model year as well as 2003–2005. Listed engine codes for this application are M52, M54, and M56.
Features
- Direct fit for the applicable 1999-2005 BMW E46 chassis vehicles
- Black powder-coated steel heatshield keeps unwanted hot air from entering the air filter
- Compatible with the stock intake hose or Mishimoto silicone intake hoses
- Improves engine induction tone under load
- Utilizes the stock air inlet duct for cool airflow to the filter
- Fully serviceable, cleanable, and reusable Mishimoto oiled air filter offers an 84-percent increase in filter surface area versus the stock filter
- Air filter has a built-in velocity stack for crisp throttle response
- Smooth, free-flowing design reduces restriction and improves airflow
- Designed in Delaware, USA, with the filter made in the USA
- Complete bolt-on kit installable in about one hour with common hand tools
- Backed by the Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty
Specifications
- Filter Material: Multi-layered cotton
- Filter Color: Red
- Hose Material: Silicone
- Hose Color: Black
- Grade Type: Performance
- Heatshield Material: Steel
- Heatshield Finish: Powder-Coat
- Chassis Code: E46
- Engine Codes: M52, M54, M56
- Air Filter Part Number: MMAF-3006
- CARB EO Number: D-759-1
- Kit Includes: Silicone intake hose with integrated CNC pipe, high-flow oiled filter, heatshield with pre-assembled protective edging, hardware, and Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Which BMW E46 models does this Mishimoto air intake fit?
This intake fits the 1999–2001 323i, 1999 323is, 2000 323Ci, 1999–2000 328i and 328is, 2000 328Ci, 2001–2005 325i and 325xi, 2001–2006 325Ci, and the 320i for 2001 and 2003–2005.
Will this air intake work with my stock ECU tune?
Yes, this intake is safe to use with the stock tune and will not hurt air/fuel ratios under load.
What is the air filter made of, and can it be reused?
The filter uses a multi-layered cotton material and is fully serviceable, meaning it can be cleaned and reused for a lifetime of service. Filter re-oiling is not included in the Lifetime Warranty.
Does the kit include the intake hose and heatshield?
Yes, the kit includes a silicone intake hose with an 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 is a complete bolt-on kit that can be installed in about one hour using common hand tools.
What is the part number for the replacement air filter?
The air filter used in this kit is Mishimoto part number MMAF-3006.
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.
