Cold Air Intake Kits

Is your engine drawing in hot air from the engine bay? A cold air intake kit typically relocates the air filter to where the air is cooler and replaces the original intake tube. This category is for you if you want to improve the air supply to the engine in a passenger car, pickup or off-road vehicle.

What does a cold air intake kit do?

Cooler air is denser and contains more oxygen per litre, which can give the engine better combustion. How much you notice depends on the engine, the engine management and the specific kit. Here you will find both closed kits with an airbox, e.g. Volant Closed Box Air Intake System with DryTech or PowerCore filter, and solutions with an exposed filter under open intake kits. A closed box shields the filter from heat, while an open filter can draw in warmer air if it is not shielded with an intake heat shield.

How to choose the right kit

• Fitment: The kits are developed for specific models, model years and engines, e.g. Ford F-150 5.0L V8 or Toyota Tacoma 3.5L V6. Check the part number against your vehicle.
• Mass airflow sensor: If the kit changes the tube diameter at the sensor, the reading can be affected, and some builds require a custom tune.
• Placement: A low-mounted filter can ingest water when driving through deep water.
• Maintenance: Clean the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions. An oiled filter must not be over-oiled, as the oil can deposit on the mass airflow sensor.
• Space: If you need a shorter tube close to the engine, short ram kits can be an alternative.

Brands in this category include aFe, K&N Engineering, Injen, Weapon R, Wehrli and AEM.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a closed and an open cold air intake kit?

A closed kit has an airbox that shields the filter from the heat in the engine bay. An open kit has an exposed filter, which can draw in warmer air if it is not shielded. The choice depends on space, driving conditions and the specific kit.

Can a cold air intake kit cause problems at vehicle inspection?

It depends on the product and the vehicle, as a kit can affect noise and emissions. Check the documentation and any approval for the specific part number before you install the kit and take the car for inspection.

Can I install a cold air intake kit myself?

The kits typically replace original parts without modifying the engine itself. Follow the instructions, tighten hose clamps correctly and check afterwards for leaks and fault codes, as unmetered air after the mass airflow sensor can cause a rough idle.