2015–2024 BMW M4

2015-2024 BMW M4 — Engine Air Filter Replacement

By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 21, 2026 · Updated Oct 22, 2026

🔧 Easy 15–20 minutes $35 DIY

Save $75 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $110

Quick answer: Engine Air Filter Replacement on a 2015–2024 BMW M4 is rated Easy and takes about 15–20 minutes. You'll need 2 tools for this job, and parts cost about $35. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.

Quick Video Tutorial

Parts You Need

Total Cost

$35.00

Part Name	Part Number	Price	Buy
Engine air filter for 2015-2024 BMW M4; verify engine, housing shape, and VIN fitment	—	$35.00	Amazon

About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.

💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully

Identify which M4 you're working on

The critical difference is filter count — the S55 intake uses TWO panel elements, while the S58 uses a single, uniquely shaped panel. Buy the right quantity before you open anything.

Find the airbox and its screws

On the F82 the airbox sits on the driver's side of the bay — a large black housing with the intake ducting running to the twin turbos. The lid is held by Torx screws around its edge plus one larger center screw.

🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado

For engine filters, I inspect the lid clips. Weak clips let the lid lift at speed, sucking in unfiltered air.

Back out the lid screws

Back out the Torx screws around the lid, keeping the larger center screw separate so it goes back in the right hole. If the lid still hangs on one corner, a screw is still in; don't force it.

Lift the lid carefully

Lift the lid straight up. On the F82, you'll now see the two panel elements sitting side by side — note which way each one faces before removing them.

Remove the elements

Lift out both panels on the F82 (or the single panel on the G82). Compare old to new before tossing anything.

Seat the new elements and close the lid

Lower the lid squarely onto the box and run the Torx screws back in, working around the rim so the lid pulls down evenly, and snug them only until they stop. They thread into plastic; cranking them strips the threads.

Verify with a careful test start

Start the engine and let it idle. Turbo BMWs are sensitive to intake leaks, so listen closely around the airbox for any hiss or whistle and watch for warning lights. Take a short drive and confirm throttle response feels normal.

All Done!

Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Replacing only one of the two S55 filter elements — the F82 needs both.
• Using the wrong Torx bit and rounding off a lid screw.
• Dropping a screw into the deep engine bay and leaving it there.
• Overtightening the lid screws and stripping the plastic threads.

Tools You'll Need

Torx bit set (check the lid screws' sizes first; the F82 has one larger center screw) Shop vacuum or clean rag Small tray for screws

Related Trouble Codes

P0171 System Too Lean (Bank 1) P0101 Mass Airflow Sensor Range/Performance P0174 System Too Lean (Bank 2)

⚠️ Safety First!

• Engine off and cool — the twin turbos and exhaust plumbing hold serious heat.
• Keep all debris out of the open intake; anything ingested goes straight to the turbos.
• Don't let the lid hang by sensor wiring — support it while you work.