Performance Air Filter for Mercedes Benz SLK (R172) SLK 55 AMG (2011-2016)

Optimizing the M152 V8: High-Flow Filtration for the Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG (2 Required)

Who It’s For: Engineered for the Mercedes-Benz R172 SLK 55 AMG owner who understands that the M152 5.5L V8 is a masterpiece of naturally aspirated engineering that deserves better than restrictive, disposable paper filters.

The Symptom: The factory intake system on the SLK 55 AMG is designed to meet strict drive-by noise regulations and long-life service intervals. This means the OEM paper filters are dense and thick, creating a significant pressure drop across the intake tract. When you’re pushing that high-compression V8 toward its 7,000 RPM redline, the engine is fighting to pull air through a restrictive barrier, resulting in a delayed throttle response and a muted exhaust note that masks the true character of the hand-built AMG powerplant.

The Engineering Fix: BMC replaces the OEM paper media with a multi-layered cotton gauze saturated in low-viscosity oil. This creates a more sophisticated filtration matrix that captures impurities as small as 7 microns without the turbulence associated with thick paper pleats. By utilizing a "Full Moulding" system, the filter frame is created from a single cast with no welded joints, ensuring a perfect seal within the R172 airbox. This maximizes the effective surface area, allowing for a higher volume of laminar airflow to reach the cylinders, which improves volumetric efficiency and sharpens the engine’s reaction to mid-range acceleration.

Why Mechanics Choose This Kit

• Enhanced Volumetric Efficiency: By reducing the intake restriction, the M152 V8 can achieve a better air-fuel mixture under load, capitalizing on its 422 HP potential.
• Superior Filtration Geometry: BMC filters trap particles down to 7 microns, outperforming the 10-micron standard of most OEM paper elements while simultaneously increasing flow.
• AMG-Grade Durability: The epoxy-coated alloy mesh protects the cotton media from gasoline fumes and oxidation, ensuring the filter doesn’t degrade under the high-heat conditions found in the R172 engine bay.

Technical Specifications

Compatibility & OEM Reference

Fits the Following Vehicles:

• Mercedes-Benz SLK (R172) SLK 55 AMG (2011 - 2016) [Note: 2 Filters Required for this Vehicle]

Interchange Part Numbers:

FB809/20, 172475

The Performance Promise

Upgrade with confidence. These filters are pre-oiled and ready for immediate drop-in installation. Unlike disposable filters, these can be washed and regenerated using a BMC service kit, making them the last set of filters your R172 will ever need. Expect a crisper induction sound and a more responsive M152 powerband.