BMW Repair: Removing air filter cover z3 1996, engine intakes, cyl engine


Question
I've unsnapped 3 clips but it still is stuck/attached to the area more at the
center of the car.   I want to replace my air filter but can't get in there!
BTW - was it worthwhile to have bought the never replace K&N filter?

Answer
I am assuming you have the 4 cyl engine.

There are four clips.

I am not a believer in the K&N filters.  You never need to replace, but you must use their cleaning system to keep them usable.

Your engine intakes a tremendous amount of air in a year.  It must be extremely clean of debris to protect the engine and clear of restrictions to optimize the performance.  To get this balance right, I trust BMW Engineers a lot more than K&N.