Air Intakes & Boxes

Where does your engine actually get its air from – cold air from outside or hot air from the engine bay? In this category we bring together air intakes, airboxes, turbo inlet pipes, heat shields and intake pipes for you who want to improve airflow to the engine in a street build or a more extensive conversion.

What an air intake does

An air intake typically replaces the stock airbox and the hoses that carry air from the filter to the throttle body or turbo. A cold air intake kit places the filter away from the heat of the engine bay, while a short ram intake has shorter pipes and sits closer to the engine. Cooler air is denser, which can give better combustion, but the gain depends on the engine, software and the rest of the build. On turbo engines, a turbo inlet pipe with a smoother path can reduce pressure loss before the compressor, which can matter at higher boost pressure.

How to choose an air intake

• Fitment: The kit must fit your exact model year and engine, e.g. AEM kits for Subaru WRX/STi 08-14 or Mini Cooper S 1.6L 07-10.
• MAF sensor: The pipe diameter and sensor position can affect the reading and therefore the engine management. Some intakes require adapted software.
• Heat: An open filter in the engine bay can draw in hot air. A heat shield or a closed airbox can limit this.
• Water and sound: Low-mounted filters can suck in water in deep puddles, and many intakes produce more induction noise.

In this category you will find, among others, aFe, Injen, K&N Engineering, Wehrli and Victor Reinz. When fitting, all clamps and joints must be tight so the engine does not draw in unfiltered air. Clean or replace the filter according to the manufacturer's instructions – new filter elements and wraps can be found in the sister category.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a cold air intake and a short ram intake?

A cold air intake typically draws cooler air from further away from the engine, but has longer pipes and can be more exposed to water. A short ram is shorter and easier to fit, but can draw warmer air from the engine bay.

Will the car pass inspection with a new air intake?

That depends on the product and the car. Changes to the intake can affect noise and emissions, so check the documentation for the specific part number, and feel free to ask the inspection centre before you fit it.

Does the engine management need adjusting after fitting?

Not always. Some intakes work with stock software, while others change the MAF sensor readings. If the check engine light comes on or the engine runs unevenly, it may be due to an incorrect air reading or a leaking joint.

How often should the filter in an air intake be cleaned?

That depends on the filter type and driving conditions. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and check the filter more often when driving on dusty roads. An oiled filter must not be over-oiled, as excess oil can settle on the MAF sensor.