Just did the K&N charcoal delete

As the name suggests, I just did the K&N drop in filter with ram scoops and cut out the charcoal filter in the air box. I wanted to keep a closed box system and wanted to get a couple of ram air scoops, so in lieu of a $500 price tag, I went with the K&N and modded the air box. (Being an N52, my engine appreciates little things like this: an N54 owner probably wouldn’t notice a difference whatsoever.)

I have to admit, it did make a noticeable difference. If I wasn’t so accustomed to the car, it might be harder for me to notice, but the power delivery is much smoother and does feel just a little bit quicker. With the scoops, on the highway, there is a definite difference as it just feels a little bit more smooth and relentless under acceleration. The highway acceleration difference is definitely more noticeable than at lower speeds, but there certainly is a difference through the whole range.

The sound didn’t change much, other than that there is some now. I do like being able to hear the induction sound, but it’s still a stock closed air box and will contain a lot of that sound. Standing next to the car with the engine running, you can hear more a of a deep hum, which is nice. It does pair well with the golf tee mod, however, and creates more of a stereo effect from the driver’s seat.

If you’re thinking about doing this, I say go for it. It’s cheap, it makes a difference, and personally, having interacted with the dusty, brittle charcoal filter, I’m glad to have it out of my car and away from my engine. If you weren’t thinking about doing this and don’t have an intake yet, I highly recommend looking into it.