The Intake Air Temp Sensor (IAT) for the E90, E92, and E93 M3 is one of the sensors used by the engine computer for setting fuel and timing tables. Therefore, it's integral to engine performance. The S65 V8 does not use a traditional air flow meter (HFM). Instead it relies on throttle position, camshaft position, air temp, and atmospheric pressure to set running conditions. A fault in any one of these systems can affect engine performance and power output. On the E9X M3 the IAT is located at the front of the intake plenum. This sensor is found on all M3 for model years 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013.
Generally, these sensors are very reliable. But if your M3 has misfires, rough running, loss of power, hesitation, or other running issues, and you have not already replaced the BMW fuel pressure sensor, you can start looking at the rest of the engine management sensors.
This is an S65 IAT sensor manufactured by Hella - an original supplier to BMW for many other sensors. As the OEM it meets all of BMW's original design, fitment, and performance requirements and is TUV approved. OEM parts are the best alternative to more expensive Original BMW parts because they are virtually identical without the inflated price tag. This part has a two year warranty.
BMW Fitments:
3 Series
E90 / E91 / E92 / E93 (06-13) > M3