BMW E36 fresh air filter
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Where is the fresh air filter on an E36 with air conditioning?
In a car with air conditioning the filter is rectangular and sits in the blower housing behind the glovebox. Remove the glovebox and the cardboard panels under it, turn the filter cap open and pull the filter out.
Where is the fresh air filter without air conditioning?
In a car without air conditioning, and in the Compact, there are two round filters, at both ends of the blower on the engine bay side under the windscreen. Replacement requires removing the wipers and the plastic strip under them, and lifting the metal panel. Both types are not found in the same car.
What does a clogged filter cause?
A clogged round filter clearly weakens airflow even with the blower on full. A wet or clogged filter can also weaken heating and fog up the windows in winter.
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