Cone filters

[Nick]

Question: If these K&N / pipercross etc aftermarket air filters are so good, why don't the manufacturers fit them as standard when the car is new?

[Dr Dave]

One word - noise!

Most new car buyers don't want noise.

[SteveChilds]

Not to mention that they would be too loud for regulations, hence why the MGF Trophy 160 exhausts were a dealer fit option!

[Dr Dave]

Which is exactly what killed off the Escort Cosworth...8)

[TheNom]

Dr Dave wrote:
Which is exactly what killed off the Escort Cosworth...8)

I thought it was the insurance situation which killed off the Escort Cosworth , a small
car with outrageous power output as standard.
Q o replacement panel air filters that give
a bit more power, invalidate the vehicles warranty ?

[Dr Dave]

Failure to meet drive-by noise regulations are what killed off the Escort Cosworth...

Any modification to the vehicles standard specification [unless approved by the manufacturer] would invalidate the warranty.

Subaru seem to have this wrapped up well with their range of tuning mods..

[TheNom]

According to the instructions supplied with my K & N panel air filter. Legal precedents have been set in the UK and USA where rulings were made that in the case of consumables ie tyres /plugs/ air filters,
providing the items were designed to be fitted to the specific vehicle - warranties would apply ! Hence the existence of pattern parts suppliers.

[Dr Dave]

Well, if an engine failed during the manufacturers warranty period [say from lubrication failure] and a pattern oil filter was fitted, I think questions would be asked.....the same goes for a spark plug if a piston had failed :evilgrin: