Review on K&N Engine Air Filter: High Performance, Premium, Washable Replacement Filter for 2004-2019 Fiat/Citreon/Peugeot/Acura (Fiorino, Qubo, Nemo, Bipper, RL) - 33-2299 by Jim Martin

K&N used in 4Runner for 15 years. No complaints. When the first air filter change was due on my Acura, I naturally opted for K&N. Now I regret it and I'm a little worried. It was nice to see a product made in the USA. However, the molded rubber frame isn't very well made. Everywhere and in every crease where the filter material comes in contact with the frame, there are many jagged pieces of rubber sticking out. There was even bits of rubber left on the surface of the filter - I had to bang the filter very hard on the desk to pull it out. Unfortunately, this was not an isolated case. At the same time I bought a K&N cabin filter and the quality was the same. Now I'm worried that more pieces of rubber could come loose and end up in my engine. My 15 year old 4Runner filter was definitely much better. Also, there really isn't much filter material. See photos for comparison. The OEM has many folds. They are 2 inches tall and sit edge to edge between a rigid plastic frame. K&N pleats are only 1 inch high. There are fewer creases and they don't go all the way to the edge because the rubber molding material extends about a half inch into the filter area. After all, I'm going to have to clean this thing very often. maybe at every oil change There is a positive truth. The OEM filter has a 2 inch high rigid plastic frame. It was extremely difficult to remove. K&N has a thin, flexible rubber frame; I hope it's easier to remove. I'll let you know how it goes after my next oil change. Attached photos: 1) From the engine side - the OEM filter has yellow media. He was very clean. 2) Inlet Side - The OEM filter has a green surround. There were all sorts of little things on it. But they came off when I tapped on them. 3) Filters on the side showing the difference in thickness.