Why Should I Upgrade My Air Intake?

Originally published on Jun 12, 2019 | Updated on Aug 22, 2023

Written by

RealTruck Expert Team

When upgrading your vehicle's engine, the air intake is often first on the list for a number of reasons, but what are they exactly? From performance to sound and even money-saving advantages, we'll take a look at the benefits of upgrading your air intake and provide a list of top recommendations so you can rest easy and be confident in your upgrade.

BENEFITS OF UPGRADING MY AIR INTAKE

Better Performance

An air intake serves as your vehicle's lungs, taking in air and distributing it to the engine's intake manifold. Upgrading the intake will allow for increased air flow, helping your truck breathe better and more efficiently. You'll see a positive effect on horsepower, torque, and acceleration as well as improved fuel economy. The numbers will depend on your engine, but you can expect to see increases between five to 15 horsepower.

Better Performance

Amplified Sound

Increased air flow is what creates that sought-after engine roar, and upgrading the intake will certainly heighten your truck's sound. You can amplify the sound even more with additional performance upgrades, such as a muffler and wider exhaust pipes.

Reusable, Money-Saving Filters

Most aftermarket air intakes come with washable, reusable air filters. They're typically made of cotton and are designed for maximum filtration, trapping debris of all sizes before it gets sucked into your engine. Their reusable nature is environmentally friendly and economical, saving you from having to purchase new filters. Check out our how-to on cleaning these filters. They also last longer than standard dry filters, with most backed by lifetime or million-mile warranties.

Reusable, Money-Saving Filters

RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS

K&N 77 Series High Flow Performance Metal Air Intake

Available in chrome and gray metallic finishes, the K&N 77 Series High Flow Performance Metal Air Intake is mandrel bent for unrestricted air flow, increasing horsepower, torque, and acceleration. May not be legal in CARB-compliant states.

S&B Cold Air Intake

The S&B Cold Air Intake is designed with durable silicone seals and a reusable high-flow air filter that uses a custom-designed box to isolate it from engine heat. High-quality intake tube reduces air flow restriction.

K&N 63 Series AirCharger High Performance Air Intake

The non-metallic tubes of the K&N 63 SEries AirCharger High Performance Air Intake provide unrestricted air flow and reduced air temperature, translating to more efficient combustion. Not legal in CARB-compliant states.

aFe Magnum Force Stage 2 Cold Air Intake

Designed with horsepower increases in mind, the aFe Magnum Force Stage 2 Cold Air Intake also increases throttle response and acceleration. Three filter styles are available, including two types of cotton oiled filters and one dry replacement filter that is also reusable.

K&N FIPK Air Intake (Fuel Injection Kit)

The K&N FIPK Air Intake is guaranteed to boost horsepower and acceleration. It uses a high-density intake tube and a high-flow filter for unrestricted air flow. It's also CARB compliant and street legal in all 50 states.

Have questions about air intakes? Chat or call our product experts. We can guarantee fitment on your vehicle, and help with installation after your purchase. At RealTruck.com, we're here for you.