Whenever you’re looking to save pennies at gas stations, the best cold air intake for fuel economy comes in handy. They are designed to offer high performance in cooling the air entering the engine system.
Replacing the factory original with a cold air intake system is a great way to improve your vehicle’s performance. Why is a cold air intake system preferred to improve fuel economy?
Cold air is denser than warm air and therefore contains more oxygen, which means better combustion and more efficient performance. Plus, oxygen burns well for high fuel economy.
You will find a lot of cold air intake systems, so how do you choose the best one and also the right one for your vehicle? We want to bring you clarity and give you all the information you need to make a good decision.
We first tested all cold air intakes on cars and selected the top air intakes which give the best fuel efficiency on different vehicles. After that, we prepared our expert guide for you.
We start with a simple guide to choosing and a list of our recommendations for the best cold air intake for fuel economy. Below, however, we go directly to the detailed evaluation and frequently asked questions about air intakes.
Discover Our Top Picks For The Best Cold Air Intake For Performance
If you want extra mileage without spending too much on engine mods, your best bet is to swap out the regular intake for a cold air intake. In fact, with just a small upgrade to your vehicle’s air intake system, you can achieve tremendous results in terms of the on-road performance of your car or truck.
Choosing a perfect cold air intake among hundreds is a big hurdle for everyone. We understand the frustrations because we were there. And that’s why we’re putting our 7 top picks for the best cold air intake for performance to highlight some of the best options out there.
K&N Cold Air Intake System
MOOSUN Cold Air Intake Black Kit & Heat Shield
Spectre SPE-9900 Air Intake Kit
Common Things You Should Know Before Buying The Best Cold Air Intake For Trucks
We are going to take a look at the best cold air intake for trucks you can buy to upgrade your car’s factory components. There are a few things to consider and check before you dive in and make a purchase.
A. Materials Quality
The quality of the materials used to build a cold air intake system is important. Look for systems made from high-quality materials such as aluminum or high-density polyethylene.
These materials are durable, heat resistant, and less likely to crack or deteriorate over time. Avoid systems made from poor-quality plastic as these are more likely to crack or break over time.
B. Fitting
Every car is different, so the intake that fits one car probably won’t fit another. There are a few things that affect CAI alignment. The biggest and most obvious is the length and shape of the tubes. So, shop for a cold air intake that easily fits your vehicle.
C. Emissions
Depending on where you live, you may need to assess whether your cold air intake system is affecting the emissions produced by your vehicle. Some places, like California, have strict rules about changes that affect vehicle emissions, so be sure to check where you live.
Suggestion: What Does a Cold Air Intake Do, And Is It Worth Buying For Your Vehicle?
D. Easy InstallationÂ
Some cold air intake systems are designed to be quick and easy to install, while others may require professional installation. Consider your mechanical experience and whether or not you plan to install the system yourself by following step by step guide of experts for cold air intake installations.
E. Cost
Everyone wants a complete engine intake upgrade. Few can afford that. Just be realistic about the costs. A cheap system will be of lower quality than a more expensive one to a point, but you may be paying for the label on the more expensive systems.
7 Best Cold Air Intake For Fuel Economy & Performance – Buying Guide In 2023
Installing a cold air intake system is a famous modification that every car enthusiast loves. Regardless of whether the CAI system provides additional power or not, it ensures high fuel consumption.
Standing out from the crowd, choosing the best cold air intake brand will be a challenge. Fortunately, after extensive research, our editorial team has selected the best aftermarket air intake systems.
Each of them is from the best cold air intake brand They are functional, easy to install, and easy to clean. To discover more impressive qualities of them, stay with us till the end.
1. K&N Cold Air Intake System
- Product Grade: Replacement Part
- Brand: K&N
- Fit Type: Vehicle-Specific Fit
- OEM Part Number: 63-3082
- Offer better towing
- Increase up to 11HP
- Improves acceleration and performance
- Enhance the airflow
- Lifetime Limited Warranty
- Made in USA
If you’re looking for a cold air intake kit that offers great mileage and a guaranteed performance boost, look no further than K&N’s cold air intake kit. With up to 50% more airflow into the engine compared to stock and factory intake systems, you’ll also notice several performance improvements, including more horsepower and torque.
You’ll even notice a difference in the sound of your engine and help achieve a louder, more aggressive sound. The K&N reusable oil-based filter is probably the most important part of the system. After all, that is what they are known for.
Related: Uncovering the Risks of Installing an Aftermarket Cold Air Intake System.
They use HDPE tubing instead of aluminum to keep costs down, and their kits include heat shields and gaskets to insulate the filter from the pod. The guards ensure that you don’t suck in hot, polluted air from the engine.
Plus, the kit is also easy to maintain with no filter cleaning required for up to 100,000 miles. Installation is a breeze, taking less than an hour with basic hand tools. K&N air intake systems are one of the easiest ways to get the most out of a vehicle. This set is no exception.
2. MOOSUN Cold Air Intake Black Kit & Heat Shield
- Product Grade: Performance Part
- Brand: MOOSUN
- Fit Type: Vehicle-Specific Fit
- OEM Part Number: ‎MS-99-06-BB
- Comes with a steel heat shield
- Long lasting & good looks
- High-Quality Silicone Coupler
- High Flow Air Filter
- Provide more horsepower and torque
- Made in USA
MOOSUN is one of the best cold air intakes for fuel economy in terms of affordability. Still, it can improve airflow by up to 64%, which improves fuel economy, improves throttle response, and increases engine performance, making engine operation much more effective.
Plus, the MooSun Cold Air Intake System has everything you need for a hassle-free installation. It includes a powder-coated steel heat shield, a washable and reusable air filter, and two high-quality 4-inch silicone domes that are built to last.
The clutches are made of high-density silicone that resists friction, tearing, and excessive heat. This allows you to be in line with quality cold air intake products. But that’s not all, this intake system also improves fuel economy and gives your vehicle a rich and deep sporty sound.
It’s an upgrade that improves performance and adds an aggressive touch to your ride. If you want to take your vehicle’s performance to the next level, don’t hesitate to try the MooSun 4″ Cold Air Intake System.
3. Injen Technology Polished Cold Air Intake Kit
- Product Grade: Performance Part
- Brand: Injen Technology
- Fit Type: Vehicle-Specific Fit
- OEM Part Number: ‎‎SP1121P
- Made for horsepower and torque gains
- Constructed from aerospace-quality aluminum
- Made with TIG welded hardware
- Maintain consistent airflow
- Offers limited lifetime warranty
- Improve corrosion resistant
Injen’s Cold Air Intake Kit is designed to provide the greatest horsepower and torque gains, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to increase their vehicle’s performance. The quality is on par with the other high-quality air intakes. It’s honestly better than K&N; Polished tubing provides a level of durability that molded plastic tubing cannot match.
The quality and simplicity also result in really easy installations. There just isn’t much to do and the parts are of such high quality that you won’t have to think twice about fitting them to your engine.
In addition, intake systems like this one are characterized by their smooth, polished surface. It is a visual treat and makes it highly resistant to wear and tear. You can count on this intake system to look good for years to come.
Don’t Miss To Checkout: Dodge Charger Owners Rejoice: Boost Power and Efficiency with a Cold Air Intake For Dodge Charger.
All in all, Injen Technology’s SP1121P Polished Intake System is a great choice for anyone looking to increase their vehicle’s performance. Its aerospace-grade aluminum construction, precise lubrication, and sleek finish make it a top-of-the-line product that will make your ride look great.
4. AEM 21-688P Cold Air Intake Kit
- Product Grade: Performance Part
- Brand: AEM
- Fit Type: Vehicle-Specific Fit
- OEM Part Number: 21-795C
- Horsepower increased upto 13 HP at 5800 RPM
- Synthetic washable air filter
- The mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube
- Reduce intake temperature
- Uses CAD design
- Not meets California emission standard
If you’re looking for high horsepower along with roaring sound, then the AEM Air 21-795C is the cold air intake for you. This system features mandrel-bent aircraft-grade aluminum tubing and TIG-welded fittings and brackets.
It also has a reusable, washable filter that can last up to 100,000 miles without cleaning. It’s designed to give you a massive boost in performance. You’ll see an additional 17.9 horsepower at 3750 rpm.
The tubes are available in chrome or carbon finishes and there is also a powder-coated heat shield built into the unit to protect the engine’s filter. Mandrel-bent aluminum intake pipes and powder-coated heat shields can also be found in this cold air.
There are a few installation disadvantages, such as B. the slightly offset screw holes, but they can be overcome quite easily. Oh, and despite being able to include all sensors, AEM listings are not legal in all 50 states. They don’t even ship to California through Amazon.
5. Airaid Cold Air Intake Kit
- Product Grade: Replacement Part
- Brand: Airaid
- Fit Type: Vehicle-Specific Fit
- OEM Part Number: 400-140-2
- Increase performance and mileage
- Washable and reusable air filter
- Replaces stock air box
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Assures superior filtration
- Increase airflow and filtration
Dynamometer tested and engineered for maximum power, the Airaid 400-140-2 provides optimal power and torque by promoting cool airflow and removing heat from the engine.
It features a large one-piece rotomolded air box, SynthaFlow performance air filter, and a cross-linked HDPE intake manifold. It features oil and paper filters; both of them are good quality. What you can’t get is the 50-state legal label.
Also Read: How Much HP Does A Cold Air Intake Add? – Find The Perfect Numbers & Solution.
You can get additional parts to make it legal and some kits include those parts, but the standard kits don’t include that all-important tag. Instead, Airaid focuses on easy installation. Just stop by here. You won’t find an easier change to install.
The molded plastic is lightweight so it’s even easy to position and hold. The filter used with this system is also washable and reusable, which is a plus for longevity.
It has some loopholes. One of them is that it can create a kind of light rattling in your engine. But overall this product is good for any vehicle.
6. Spectre SPE-9900 Air Intake Kit
- Product Grade: Performance Part
- Brand: Spectre
- Fit Type: Vehicle-Specific Fit
- OEM Part Number: 9900
- Comes with Spectre reusable air filter
- Top-quality polished aluminum tubes
- Deliver better towing
- Offer great engine protection
- Improves throttle response
The Specter Performance Air Intake Kit is a great option to increase your gas mileage. It features mandrel-bent, polished T6 aluminum tubing combined with a premium air filter for efficient combustion.
One of the best things about this kit is that it offers top-notch protection for your engine by shielding it from harmful contaminants and debris. It is built with high-quality materials that ensure maximum durability and longevity.
And make it a great investment for anyone looking to improve their vehicle’s performance. The kit comes with a powder-coated steel heat shield to prevent the engine from heat. You have the option to choose a black, red, blue, or white air filter.
Another great feature is that the kit is designed for a specific vehicle fit and comes with an OEM part number 9900. This means you can be sure that the kit will fit your vehicle perfectly and give it the best possible performance.
7. BBK Cold Air Intake KitÂ
- Product Grade: Performance Part
- Brand: BBK
- Fit Type: Vehicle-Specific Fit
- OEM Part Number: 1557
- Provide maximum airflow to the motor
- Long lasting & good looks
- Packages included all required hardware
- Has a polished chrome finish
The BBK Cold Air Intake Kit aims to provide a significant increase in performance along with an increase in mileage. It is an extremely durable product that offers plenty of airflow.
But the best selling point is the combination of price and performance you get with this cold air intake system. It’s not the cheapest option out there, but it’s not the most expensive either.
Similar Post: Upgrade Your Ride with the Best Cold Air Intake for Mustang GT.
That’s what makes it so impressive you get top-level results despite not paying a high price. The polished heat shield is a bit unique and pairs well with polished hoses. BBK also chose blue as a color, probably to contrast with K&N’s dominant red and orange, so you’re in luck if you like blue.
The quality and fit are fantastic. The benefit of BBK’s philosophy of only building parts for big American engines means they have a lot of experience building things to fit big American engines.
Top FAQs About The Best Brand For Cold Air Intake
Do cold air intakes increase fuel economy?
Yes, cold air intakes are used to increase fuel efficiency to some extent, this improvement is more than the standard air intake system. It also depends on the vehicle and cold air intake type
In addition to improving fuel economy, a cold air intake also increases your performance. Combining the system with a new exhaust further improves efficiency.
How do cold air intakes increase fuel economy?
Cold air intakes are designed to increase air volume in the engine over the stock air intake system. This increased airflow can improve the engine’s combustion efficiency, resulting in better fuel economy.
When the engine gets more air, it can burn more fuel, increasing horsepower and torque. As a result, the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain speed or accelerate, which can save fuel.
What is the best brand for cold air intake?
K&N is the best and most famous brand in the manufacture of cold air intakes for vehicles. Tailored to your specific vehicle, a K&N Cold Air Intake is known to increase pulling power, pulling torque, throttle response, and mpg.
And it works with K&N’s famous Filtercharger reusable cotton gauze air filter. Additionally, K&N makes cold air intakes that are emissions-legal in all 50 states.
Can you install a cold air intake yourself?
Yes, the cold air intake kit comes with easy-to-follow installation instructions. It helps if you already have experience with mechanics or installing new parts on your car.
According to automotive experts, you can install a cold air intake system using simple tools with a little bit of knowledge.
Is a short or long cold air intake better?
Cold air intakes tend to be more attractive than short tappet intakes, as they offer more power and better throttle response. They also provided better throttle response and less turbo lag.
On the other hand, Short Ram Intake is easy to maintain and looks better than cold air intakes. They are also less expensive and therefore easier to install.
Does modifying a car void the warranty?
While some dealerships would have you think otherwise, simply having an aftermarket part or modifying your vehicle cannot void your warranty. However, if this part has caused the vehicle to break, the dealer may deny your warranty claim.
So you should properly install any aftermarket part so it can not void the warranty of the vehicle.
Final Thought
By upgrading your vehicle with a cold air intake, you will not only see an increase in fuel economy but also an increase in performance. Cold air intakes also give a nice and pretty look to your engine bay with a variety of colors, designs, and styles of the air intake hose you connect it to.
So put one of the proven cold air intakes in your shopping cart to give your vehicle a great gift. In short, the cold air intakes are worth it considering you timed your upgrade correctly.
