where is the air filter of a BMW 318i located?

Answer 1

When you're facing the engine in front of the car, it's a black plastic box on the right side just behind the headlamp.

Depending on which model 318i you have, you may have a box where the filter element simply sits flat horizontal or you may have one that the filter slides in sideways.

You usually can open it by hand simply by flicking the clips. There usually are 2 clips on each side. (for the "flat" design).

Additonal notes for the "flat" design filter box:

It's generally also a good idea to use a small vacuum cleaner to clean out the loose leaves...etc from the air filter box (below the filter element) when you replace the filter.

Be sure to align the cover properly when closing the box and not to pinch/damage the rubber surround of the filter element.

Answer 2

you don't say which 318i, however, follow the thick corrugated rubber tube from the inlet manifold toward the front of the car, you will see a large box (about 30cm x 20cm) that is clamped together by spring-clips. pop the clips with a flat screwdriver and the filter is inside.