The K&N 69-2021TP is a short-ram Typhoon intake that replaces the factory air filter and intake tube with a polished, mandrel-bent aluminum tube and an oversized oiled cotton filter. The manufacturer's description says the tube is a mandrel-bent 6061 intake tube designed for smooth laminar flow, which suits the tight engine bay of the supercharged 1.6L four-cylinder. For a 1.6L supercharged Cooper S owner searching for a K&N Typhoon short ram, R53 cold air intake, or 2002-2006 Cooper S intake upgrade, this kit is a complete system rather than a loose filter. The stock box is replaced, and the kit includes 4 stainless clamps and 1 coupler. The filter is also reusable: it only requires cleaning every 100,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions, so the long-term cost is lower than a disposable replacement.
Fitment is the first thing to verify. This is a Cooper S part and does not fit the non-supercharged versions of these cars. Model-year coverage differs between sources; the manufacturer's own pages list the 2002 through 2007 range, while other listings show narrower R53 and R52 year breakdowns, so confirm your VIN against the manufacturer before ordering. For installation, the manufacturer's instruction sheet calls for pliers, a flat-blade screwdriver, a 10mm wrench, a 4mm Allen wrench, a ratchet with a 6-inch extension, and an 8mm socket. Disconnecting the negative battery cable erases pre-programmed electronic memories, and the instructions warn that some radios will need an anti-theft code afterward. The manufacturer quotes installation in 60 minutes or less with simple hand tools, while other sources cite up to 90 minutes.
No. The manufacturer's product title specifies that this kit is for the 02-06 Cooper S and will not fit the base model. Confirm your exact engine and model year with the manufacturer before ordering.
The manufacturer states the filter only requires cleaning every 100,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions. Harsher or dustier conditions will call for more frequent cleaning.
Per the manufacturer's installation sheet, disconnecting the battery erases stored electronic memory settings. Write down radio presets beforehand, and have the anti-theft code ready if your radio requires one.
Most owners who have installed this kit describe it as a manageable weekend job for someone comfortable with hand tools. The manufacturer's instruction sheet has you clip the stock hose clamps with pliers, remove the upper air cleaner assembly, and disconnect the throttle body electrical connection before fitting the new tube. The key gotcha is the crankcase vent line: one owner reported that, after assembling and fastening the filter and intake tube, the stock crank vent hose would not easily reconnect, so test-fit that hose before fully tightening the clamps. Also, owners on user forums warn that over-oiling the filter can let oil reach the mass airflow sensor, so apply only light oil and shake out the excess.
