Panel Filters

[spedracer9923]

Hi folks, looking at replacing the intake air filter on my S4.

Rather than go for the Porsche standard item, is it worth looking at aftermarket options?

Any recommendations on which ones to buy or ones to specifically avoid from experience?

I've always used Apexi kits on previous cars but without running 2 separate enclosed cones on each side i can't see it being worth anything over a good panel filter in the standard box

[Correyyt]

On the S4 you’ll get the best results sticking with the factory airbox and just dropping in a quality panel filter.
The stock setup flows really well for the power these cars make, and it keeps intake temps down compared to open-cone kits. Most aftermarket cone setups tend to add noise more than performance, and unless they’re properly shielded, they can actually hurt you with heat soak.

[stepson]

Stick with factory filter. It keeps road grit out of the engine superior to most aftermarket set-ups

[NeoAura]

Stick with a high-flow panel filter (like BMC, ITG, or K&N) in the stock airbox, it's efficient, easy to install, and avoids heat soak issues common with aftermarket cone setups. Only consider a full intake upgrade if you're doing major engine mods.

[Opelotus]

I think the general consensus is to avoid K&N here, as the oil on the filter can apparently harm the hot wire MAF. From my limited experience with 928s that had K&N filters installed, they didn't fit and seal in the airbox as well as a stock filter either.

[NeoAura]

Hey! If you're mainly looking for better airflow or a bit more sound, a high-quality aftermarket panel filter like BMC or K&N in the stock airbox is usually the way to go, simple and effective. Full intake kits are cool, but unless you're going for serious performance gains or tuning, the stock setup with a performance filter does the job just fine. Sounds like you know your way around Apexi, but yeah, unless it’s a full custom setup, panel filters are usually the smarter route on the S4.

[Linderpat]

Stay away from any filter that requires oiling. You will foul the MAF and degrade performance. Not worth it. Plus non-OEM filters do not do as well of a job as the stock orange panel filter. There is lots of data on this.