Personally, I don't think K&N's filtration is bad enough to where it affects the engine. I've got two vehicles in my family that have been running them since day one with over 200,000 miles.
yeah the oem ones arent (THAT) expensive and they work great.
I've used both Hengst and Mann over the years and never had a problem with either. Although I've noticed the Mann filters seem to look a little more "used" when the come out for some reason.
The Hengst filter is great.
That is the filter you need, and the only one you should use!
Pros - They have a real oil filter, the case is sturdier, they can handle more power and bigger displacements, they last forever without machining, the stock heads were pretty solid. Cons - They are harder to work on since there is more to assemble and disassemble, parts are slightly more expensive (not much though), they are harder to find, the different year engines had many variations so you have to know which one you've got.
I'd go for the Mahle or VW oil filter. Most aftermarket filters (Not sure about K&N) dont' have the check valve thingy in them...it's good for a few psi if I recall correctly...
amsoil makes a filter that filters better than stock
I have it, and the car is alot more smooth. Good filter.
Do NOT use a FRAM oil filter, whatever you do! Mahle, Mann, or VW OEM only.
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