Air Filter Install
 

So I went and installed a new air filter tonight after an oil change this past weekend, and what do I find but the previous air filter was installed wrong. The fins were running vertical instead of horizontal! The "TOP" marker on the Mahle filter was pointed towards the front of the car, and that's definitely not right. Not only that, but the far lower side clip wasn't done, I guess in an effort to save a reach-around. At least the fins were pointed in the right direction.

This must have been from the tune-up I got as soon as I bought the car, about 10k miles and 1.5 years ago. Kinda sloppy, if you ask me. As the repair was done by a guy whose website isn't even around anymore, I guess I can't expect much. He seemed like a very honest guy at the time, but maybe honesty doesn't equal attention to detail.

Well, it does make me glad that I've started to do my own work on the car. It also makes ownership a bit more fun. :) Well, I just thought i'd blow off a little steam, especially if it helps any other newbies install their air filters correctly.

I doubt there was any damage done, but would love to hear any opinions or things I should check for at this point. Kinda makes me wonder what else might have been done without a lot of care.

The air box isn't square, how was it possible to install it wrong? At least I don't remeber it being square.

Hmm, the air filter I used was square. Maybe it's a different filter we're talking about?

Maybe, I'm also tired and not thinking straight and I have not looked at my filter for a few months. Now you have me thinking...

A lot of guys don´t bother with the rear lower clip - myself included - until my spider-armed brother managed to reach in and fasten it. :D

Your post highlights a good point - there are no guaranties the expected job will be done as ordered. Not even with specialists. Doing it myself (not to myself) mostly ensures a job fairly well done and above all a great feeling of accomplishment and saved money.

I'll second that!

87 Blk Coupe

You're correct in installing the mesh of the filter horizontally instead of vertically