Lost seal on airbox, how bad?

[DFDubM]

Noticed that my airbox cover has several stripped out bolts so only about half are actually securing it. I'm assuming that means it isn't sealed any longer, if it ever was. Looks like previous owner stripped out the base of the box where the self threading screws won't bite any longer.

My question is whether this affects the performance of the airbox or not. Is it meant to pressurize? Any help would be appreciated.

[Chriskm3]

All is happening is that hot engine bay air is getting sucked Im sure it's very minimal so you should not hinder performance. But if you are like the rest of us you will go and fix it right away.

[MilehighM3]

Given the ample supply of fresh air via the bumper inlet, I seriously doubt any air is being drawn in. There's still a lip around the airbox where the lid installs. It would be very tough to get hot air in there. You should be fine

[M3takesNYC]

I had the same issue only almost all of them were stripped. I was annoyed so replaced the whole box but costly.

What I did for awhile was use black electrical tape to essentially keep the box "together" and more sealed in the places that it was a bit loose. Seemed to work well

[Sully1Time]

The air intake side that comes from the hood has a slit at the bottom to allow water that enters there to run right out, so the box is far from sealed.

Think you'll be fine!

Those bolts strip right out if not careful, someone stripped 1 on my box before i bought my car

[BPMSport]

Dealer stripped mine. Still closes well though, just one or two screws don't tighten all the way. I'll replace it one of these days.

[DFDubM]

Thanks for the responses, very much appreciated. Maybe I can get some sleep now.