The journey to upgraded turbo inlets on my E90 has been a challenging one. Initially, I opted for VRSF relocated inlets, enticed by their promise of improved airflow and compatibility with any chargepipe. Their website specifically stated, “This kit works with any chargepipe available without restriction.” This proved to be inaccurate.
After weeks of installation attempts and numerous exchanges with VRSF, it became clear that their kit was incompatible with my Active Autowerke Chargepipe. The suggestion to replace my perfectly functional chargepipe was unacceptable. Ultimately, the VRSF inlets were returned, initiating what I anticipate will be a protracted refund process.
Returning to square one, I chose MMP OEM location inlets. This decision allowed for a significantly smoother installation. The rear inlet was fitted with minimal effort, requiring only the removal of the O2 sensor. The front inlet required some modification, as detailed in the image below. This setup has proven to be highly effective and is a strong recommendation for anyone considering inlet upgrades.
This revised approach offers several advantages: 2-inch piping from turbo to filter maintains a direct path for increased airflow. Crucially, it retains the OEM locations for the coolant tank, power steering, and coolant lines, simplifying the installation process. By modifying the OEM rear pipe, installation time is considerably reduced.
While the relocated inlets boast 2.5-inch piping, the practical benefit is debatable. Considering the turbo inlet itself is only 1.75 inches, the impact of the larger diameter piping on overall flow is questionable. Furthermore, the vacuum canisters are not yet installed with this setup. This modified OEM location approach provides a balance of performance and ease of installation, proving a viable alternative for E90 owners seeking improved turbo inlet performance. It avoids the compatibility issues encountered with relocated inlets and offers a more straightforward modification process.
