Looks to me like some type of cleaner has stained it/took the color out of it. I've seen where you can apply heat to it and it usually will make it look new.
I do like to browse there for ideas and customizations cause it does seem to be a larger forum, but I haven't created a profile cause there's way too many asshats and I'd end up banned.
I'll preface this by saying - I have no idea what I'm talking about.
From what I've seen with other CAI intakes is that they mess with your MAF sensor, so more than likely you're running slightly lean, thus why you're seeing an increase.
First off, WTF lol
I would be immediately finding a new dealer/shop to go to. And I'm assuming they want you to install a Fumoto valve just because they're lazy?
I usually have to cross reference sites a lot. Find a part on one site and then have to search the general part number on Google and find a site that has the diagram with a notation ("listed as part #4 in diagram") etc.
Coming from an IT guy (software), have you tried turning it on and off again??
In other words, have you tried doing it after unhooking the battery for a few minutes? Wonder if it's something that is stored in memory or not.
I ran mine with a completely broken shutter (multiple slats broken and/or dislodged) and still plugged in for over a month. Got the entire Christmas tree of CELs, but no actual issues.
Like above, they are pretty comfortable to sit on as they do add a little extra padding. Drove cross country about 2 months ago and didn't notice any comfort-ability issues.
I opted for the neoprene covers because I knew that I would be moving back to Florida and didn't want the faux leather...