Cold Air Inductions Quick Takes

If you’re wondering exactly what you should expect when ordering, unboxing, or installing an intake from Cold Air Inductions, these quick takes from our favorite YouTuber installations will give you an idea.

If you’ve got 10 minutes and a little curiosity, check them out!

BlueCollarGarage Duramax Intake

Calling all Duramax owners! Watch BlueCollarGarage get familiar with our USA-made GM 6.6L Silverado/Sierra intake components:

“The best part about all this? It’s made here in the USA.”

– BlueCollarGarage

Easy Install By Whiplash TV

Step-by-step instructions with images are included with every kit we sell. The crew at Whiplash Motorsports was quick to realize how helpful this can be when installing an intake:

“So now it’s time to head over to the truck and start following our instructions.”

– Whiplash Motorsports

Pros And Cons From FonduPot’s Garage

Wondering if an intake from Cold Air Inductions would improve your TurboMax performance? Check out this quick rundown of benefits from FonduPot’s Garage:

“It definitely feels like the throttle is a little more responsive with this installed.”

– FonduPots Garage

Improved MPG For CFarmer

CAI intakes are one of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy. Especially if you put a lot of highway miles on your truck, or haul/tow often like CFarmer:

“I would buy this air box just for the fuel savings alone.”

– CFarmer

Impressive Thrust For FixedVaneDuramax

For many truck owners, more power is the point. FixedVaneDuramax noted an increase of 10-11lbs per minute more air going into the engine – translating to a more responsive thrust:

“I wasn’t sure what to think when I got it, but now that I’m looking at it I’m pretty impressed – it seems really heavy-duty.”

– FixedVaneDuramax

Cold Air Inductions has making high-quality sealed air box intake systems since 2004. We offer intakes for cars, SUV and trucks, all backed by a lifetime warranty. Have questions? Contact our team to find the perfect cold air intake kit for your ride.

Whiplash TV Installs A CAI Silverado Intake

Upgrading your Chevy Silverado’s performance has never been easier with Cold Air Inductions’ cold air intake system. As seen in this video from Whiplash TV, our CAI intake gets an unbiased review after it gets added to a 2012 Chevy Silverado LTZ. 

High-Quality Parts And Everything You Need For Easy Installation

To start with, the CAI kit comes with everything you need to bolt right into your Chevy Silverado’s engine bay. In addition to the parts list, every kit includes detailed, full-color instructions, which Whiplash TV notes are different from our competitor’s kits, which use black and white photos.

Whiplash TV is also impressed with the CAI intake, which “uses good quality parts like a Continental hose” and comes with everything you need to hook it up. They also point out how all of the parts are designed to fit right in and are engineered to shield the airflow from heat. In addition to the high-quality parts, they note that the tube diameter is similar to the factory intake by the mass airflow sensor, which maximizes the fuel-air mixture. Then, the tubing gets larger, which increases the airflow and adds more horsepower.

“This way you have the best of both worlds. You have a vehicle that is going to be right on the fueling but you get high flow.”

– Whiplash TV

Whiplash TV also likes the airbox with its clear plastic window so you can see your air filter. They also note that, unlike many other intake kits, our airbox is thoroughly insulated and sealed with a rubber gasket. This not only keeps the air charge cool but prevents hot air in the engine bay from entering the intake. 

More Power In About 30 Minutes

The instructions and quality parts make installing the CAI cold air intake a snap. In about 30 minutes with some basic tools, you can get a noticeable bump in power. Whiplash TV figures the cold air intake will add 12 to 14 horsepower right off the bat, which is on par with the numbers we’ve seen with our extensive testing.  

But it’s not just the horsepower gain that you’ll notice. It’s the more responsive throttle because the power gains show up all across the powerband, from low to high RPM. Whiplash TV believes the CAI intake kit is second to none:

“This is definitely the most thorough and best put together air intake that I have installed on any vehicle.”

– Whiplash TV

Take Your Silverado To The Next Level With A CAI Cold Air Intake

In addition to the Silverado, we make kits for other Chevrolet and GMC Trucks as well as SUVs. Or check out our selection of cold air intakes for other vehicles to find the perfect fit! With CAI, you’re not just upgrading your car or truck; you’re getting the following benefits that will enhance your driving experience:

  • Proven Performance: Our intakes are dyno-tested with results to support our claims.
  • Quality Materials: Only the highest quality materials are used to ensure durability and efficiency.
  • Easy Installation: Designed for a straightforward install, getting you back on the road faster.

For more information and to view our full range of products, visit Cold Air Inductions.

Pre-Oiled High-Performance Air Filters From CAI

Our owner and founder James Newsome didn’t stop at designing a whole new approach to the cold air intake air box – he went on to create his own design for high-performance air filters, which have features above and beyond the industry standard. Each air filter is designed for vehicle-specific systems. The shape, pleat count, and layers of filtration media are all engineered for optimum airflow with the least amount of turbulence, not just what will fit in the air box. Our air filters see extensive testing and validation on a chassis dyno to ensure maximum power gains.

But don’t just take our word for it – here’s what our customers have to say:

“Using this cold air intake has been nothing short of phenomenal! Instant visible power increases and it just makes my Camaro perform so much better! Excellent engine mod to use if you’re looking for instant power gain and no tune is required.”

– Kenroy B.

“Once ordered it took two days to arrive. It was cheaper even with shipping than the factory OEM filter for my 2019 Chevy Silverado LD 5.3 was. I’m so happy with my cold air kit I bought an extra filter when cleaning the other one.”

– Raymond G.

“Great quality! Really like my cold air intake and just bought another filter to trade out while I clean the original.”

– James W.

With every CAI high-performance air filter, you get:

  • Optimal Airflow: Count on our high-performance air filter to maximize airflow while minimizing power-robbing turbulence.
  • Improved Efficiency: Because our air filters are designed to work with vehicle-specific systems, they provide better efficiency and performance compared to OEM filters.
  • Lifetime Reusability: Our air filters are easy to clean and oil and will last a lifetime, unlike paper filters which have to be thrown away when they get dirty.

All of our high-performance air filters are made in the USA by local workers and come pre-oiled, so they are ready to install right out of the box. Follow the chart below to find the perfect filter for your intake – order today!

Cold Air Induction Filter Part NumberIntake System Part Number
CF-5000501-5000
 501-5001
CF-7350512-0104-B
CF-7437501-1100-B
CF-7540512-0105-B
 512-0106-B
 512-0109-B
CF-8350501-1036-10-B
 501-1036-12-B
CF-8385501-0956-B
CF-8400501-1099-10-B
 501-1099-10-UKM-B
 501-1099-10-UKSB
 501-1099-10-MB
 501-1099-10-SB
 701-3942-B
 101-0102-B
CF-8438512-1059-08-B
CF-8500501-1099-10-ZB
CF-9337501-0520-B
 501-0519-B
CF-9350501-0519-39-B
 501-0873-B
 501-0904-B
CF-9396512-0100-B
CF-9400512-0101-B
 512-0102-B
 512-0103-B
 512-0107-B
 512-0108-B
 512-0110-B
RK-0001Filter Recharge Kit

Shop All Air Filters

Blue Collar Garage Reviews Our Sierra/Silverado Intake

Upgrading your GMC Sierra’s performance is a snap with Cold Air Inductions’ cold air intake system. Whether your truck burns gas or diesel, our cold intake is a quick and easy way to add horsepower, torque, and better throttle response. 

Recently, the Blue Collar Garage installed a CAI kit in their beautiful 2018 GMC Sierra with a 6.6-liter Duramax Diesel. Let’s check out what they had to say!

Easy Step-By-Step Installation

The Blue Collar Garage chose the Elite Series CAI cold air intake for the 2017 to 2019 Silverado and Sierra with the Duramax Diesel. They appreciated the detailed instructions with color photos, which made the step-by-step installation process easy to follow. 

They were also impressed with the quality of the CAI intake’s components, all of which are made in the USA and come with a limited lifetime warranty.  Everything is made to fit in the Silverado or Sierra engine bay, bolting right up to the engine. Our cold air intake also lets you retain the stock mass airflow sensor and even reuse the stock clamps. 

Another thing the Blue Collar Garage liked was the clear window for the airbox. Not only does it add a cool custom touch, but it also makes it easy to check your air filter to see if it needs to be cleaned. 

This is a high-quality cold air intake that’s easy to install.

– Blue Collar Garage

More Power In About 30 Minutes

In practically no time, the Blue Collar Garage has installed the CAI cold air intake in their 2018 GMC Sierra Duramax Diesel. In most cases, the job takes about 30 minutes and can be completed with some basic tools and our easy-to-follow instruction guide. Once it’s hooked up, you’ll immediately notice the difference, which includes a more responsive throttle and a bump in horsepower. Our extensive testing shows that you can expect an increase of about 12 horsepower without any other modifications. 

But it’s not just the horsepower gain that you’ll notice. You’ll also like the fuller sound that comes with it and added benefits like better gas mileage. The Blue Collar Garage summed it up saying, “It’s a major upgrade from the factory OEM air intake that will provide more horsepower, MPGs, and actually sound a little bit better.”

Take Your Truck To The Next Level With A CAI Cold Air Intake!

In addition to the Silverado, we make kits for other Chevrolet and GMC Trucks as well as SUVs. Or check out our selection of cold air intakes for other vehicles to find the perfect fit! With CAI, you’re not just upgrading your car or truck; you’re getting the following benefits that will enhance your driving experience:

  • Proven Performance: Our intakes are dyno-tested with results to support our claims.
  • Quality Materials: Only the highest quality materials are used to ensure durability and efficiency.
  • Easy Installation: Designed for a straightforward install, getting you back on the road faster.

For more information and to view our full range of products, visit Cold Air Inductions.

How To Avoid Heat Soak

Heat soak is a common problem that affects many engines, especially those with forced induction. It occurs when heat from the engine and exhaust system is absorbed by surrounding components, which can reduce performance and efficiency. While it’s difficult to avoid heat soak completely, you can significantly reduce its impact.

In this post, we’ll cover what heat soak is and how to address it. 

What is Heat Soak?

Heat soak happens when the engine’s heat is absorbed by components like the intake manifold, throttle body, and intercooler. This heat transfer raises the temperature of the incoming air, which reduces its density and the engine’s power output. Over time, this can lead to decreased performance and could potentially damage engine components.

How Heat Soak Has Been Addressed Over the Years

Over the years, engineers and car enthusiasts have developed several methods to combat heat soak:

  • Heat Shields and Wraps: These products insulate hot components, preventing heat from spreading.
  • Intercoolers: Air-to-air or air-to-water intercoolers cool the intake air before it enters the engine.
  • Cold Air Intakes: These systems draw cooler air from outside the engine bay, increasing air density and performance.

Why CAI’s Metal Intakes Are The Best Solution

Cold Air Inductions (CAI) offers metal intakes that are particularly effective in reducing heat soak. Here’s why:

  1. Heat Resistance: Metal intakes are less prone to absorbing and retaining heat compared to plastic intakes.
  2. Durability: Metal is more durable and can withstand the high temperatures in the engine bay.
  3. Performance: Metal intakes help maintain cooler air temperatures, which increases air density and improves engine performance.

Want more info? Check out the following links! 

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed cold air intake systems since 2004. All our intake kits are designed and engineered for specific vehicles to deliver noticeable improvements over stock performance and come with a lifetime warranty. 

If you’re ready to make your vehicle stand out, contact us to order your CAI cold air intake kit today!

Cold Air Inductions Camaro Drag Strip Comparison

Are you curious about how a 6th Gen Camaro performs at the drag strip with a Cold Air induction intake? Check out the latest video for a detailed comparison and see the results for yourself!

The 6th Gen Camaro

The 6th Generation Camaro is a seriously fast car. With performance that puts its rivals in the barn, including cars costing twice as much, it offers just about the most bang for your buck.

That’s not to say its performance can’t be improved, and one of the easiest mods is to install a CAI cold air intake system. Our kits are easy to install, taking just about 30 minutes with a few hand tools. The high quality is immediately noticeable, adding a custom touch under the hood. But the thing that’s really noticeable is the performance.

The Stock 2016 Camaro SS Runs A 12-Second Quarter Mile

In the video, CAI tests a 2016 Camaro at the drag strip. The only modification planned was to add a CAI intake system. Before adding the intake, the Camaro ran a 12.03-second quarter mile on its first pass, topping out at 116 mph. Over the next several passes, it averages just over 12 seconds at 117 mph. Then it’s time to install the CAI intake.

Running The CAI Intake

To test the CAI intake using the exact same conditions, we parked the car for an hour. Using basic tools, the intake was swapped out in 15 minutes in the parking lot. Then we immediately took the car back to the track without giving the car time to learn the intake.

Immediately, the 2016 Camaro puts down an 11.91-second time, running at 117 mph. Subsequent passes were also in that range; on average, the Camaro improved 0.82 seconds at the strip. The performance improvement backs up our claim that adding a CAI intake provides a 10-15 horsepower gain without any other mods.

Boost Your Camaro’s Performance With A CAI Intake

Ready to boost the performance of your Camaro? A CAI intake system is one of the easiest ways to get real performance gains. With our kits, you can be sure you’ll get:

  • Superior Design and Quality: Our kits are made with the highest quality components for durability and performance.
  • Performance Boost: CAI intakes provide better throttle response and noticeable performance gains, all backed by real-world testing.
  • Easy Installation: On average, it takes about 30 minutes to install

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed cold air intake systems since 2004. All our intake kits are designed and engineered for specific vehicles to deliver noticeable improvements over stock performance and come with a lifetime warranty. In addition to the Elite Carbon Cold Air Intakes, we also offer other Cold Air Intakes for the Camaro.

If you’re ready to make your Camaro stand out, contact us to order your CAI cold air intake kit today!

Why You Need A Chevy Tahoe Cold Air Intake System

The Chevy Tahoe is a great SUV. It’s quick, comfortable, and comes packed with practical features. If you have the 5.3-liter V8, we have the perfect upgrade to make your Tahoe even better.

Our Cold Air Intake systems will enhance the intake sound of your V8, improve its performance, and lower fuel consumption. The best part is that it’s quick and easy to install. And it will even enhance the look of your engine bay.

Why Install A Cold Air Intake System?

  • More Power
  • Improved Fuel Economy
  • Better Intake Sound

The Chevy Tahoe V8 makes 355 horsepower stock. Installing a CAI cold air intake can add between 12 and 14 horsepower. This is dyno-tested real-world power, not an estimate based on a generic intake design.

Our CAI Cold Air Intakes are designed to suck in cold air and keep it cold. Cold air is dense, which means the engine has more oxygen to mix the fuel with. One of the benefits of this is enhanced fuel economy.

The freer flowing air tracts and colder air also enhance the intake sound whenever you put your foot down. The great thing is that your SUV still sounds completely stock when you’re just cruising around.

Installing A Cold Air Intake System On A Chevy Tahoe

Fitting a cold air intake to your Tahoe is simple. Our custom-designed Elite Series intake fits the 2021 – 2024 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban models with the 5.3-liter V8 motor. We also offer this system for 2019 – 2024 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 5.3-liter V8s as well. The kit includes:

  • Aluminum Air Box with Clear Inspection Window
  • Thermal-Coated Intake Tube
  • High-Performance Air Filter
  • Inlet/Duct
  • Installation Instructions

The entire installation process can take as little as 15 minutes. We sent an Elite Series cold air intake to Youtuber Leaman Griffin to see what he thought of it. Watch his video below:

As you can see from the installation video, upgrading to a CAI Cold Air Intake is quick and easy. That’s thanks to our custom-designed products and simple installation procedure. Our intakes are built to last, and the reusable air filter element will save you money over a stock system.

Fits like a glove. Perfect fitment.

– Leaman Griffin

Every one of our products is built to the highest standards, ensuring that they perform as promised and look as good or better than the OE intake system.

Cold Air Inductions Has The Perfect Kit For Your Chevy Tahoe

We develop cold air intakes for specific vehicles and test our systems in real-world conditions to deliver results you can feel and hear.

All of my vehicles have had a CAI cold air intake system, and I’ve had zero problems with any of them.

– Leaman Griffin

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed air box intake systems since 2004. We offer a lifetime warranty. Check out our range of high-quality intakes here. Then contact our team to order a Cold Air Inductions kit that sounds as good as it performs.

How To Install A CAI Elite Carbon Intake On Your Camaro

Cold air intakes are one of the best and quickest ways to enhance the power output and intake sound of your Camaro. As long as you choose the right intake, you can improve your car’s performance within minutes.

For the best results, pick a product specially designed for your Camaro that offers:

  • Improved Engine Efficiency, Boosted Fuel Economy
  • An Easy Install – OEM Fit, No Modifications Necessary
  • Cooler Intake Temperatures That Will Increase Engine Power
  • A Clear Viewing Window That Allows For Easy Filter Inspection
  • More Responsive Throttle During Acceleration

It should be made from the highest-quality materials, offer an excellent warranty, and be proven to increase your vehicle’s performance. The CAI Elite Carbon Intake meets all these requirements, and you can install it yourself within minutes:

The CAI Elite Carbon Series Intake System

If you are serious about performance, our Elite Carbon Series cold air intake is perfect for your Camaro. It is constructed of top-quality materials, including carbon fiber. It also meets or exceeds OEM manufacturer requirements. This kit includes:

  • Carbon Fiber Air Box with Clear Inspection Window
  • Carbon Fiber Intake Tube + High-Performance Air Filter
  • Flex Coupler/Stainless Clamps
  • Comprehensive Installation Instructions

Installation Process For 2016-2022 Camaro SS

Every CAI cold air intake is designed to fit as if it were an OEM part. Installation is easy and can be done in your garage using simple tools:

  • 8mm nut driver or slotted screwdriver
  • T20 torx driver
  • Pliers
  • 2.5mm and 3mm Allen wrench
  • 10mm socket and ratchet

The Step-By-Step Install Process

Watch our helpful video above to see just how easy it is to install the CAI Elite Carbon Series cold air intake in a 6th-generation Camaro SS. Every kit comes with comprehensive installation instructions and all the required hardware. We detail the steps below to make the process as easy as possible, even if you have never worked on your car before.

  1. Ensure that the engine is off and has cooled down. Disconnect the negative battery cable, which is located in the trunk on the right side behind an access panel.
  2. Loosen the clamps and screws on your current air intake system. You will need to unclip and remove the sound enhancer tube, loosen the PCV tube, and remove the throttle body intake tube. Once everything is disconnected, remove the entire airbox assembly from the car. Do not remove the wiring harness from the MAF sensor -this will cause the check engine light to come on.
  3. Next, begin the assembly process; you can reuse the factory grommets. Connect the carbon fiber intake tube to the air filter by screwing them together. Connect the coupler to the throttle body and tighten the clamp closest to it.
  4. Install the foam seal on the air box and place the air filter inside. Then, insert the MAF tube into the throttle coupler. The airbox should be aligned with the three mounting grommets simultaneously.
  5. Secure the system by tightening the stainless-steel clamps around the coupler boot. Reattach the PCV tube, MAF sensor, and any other tubes or wiring that was disconnected during the removal process.
  6. Reattach the negative battery cable and make sure that everything has been tightened. Then, head out for a test drive and enjoy the benefits of your new CAI intake.

Cold Air Inductions Has The Perfect Kit For Your Camaro

We offer bespoke cold air induction kits for a variety of Camaro models. Our Elite Carbon Series range has been designed for 2016-2024 6.2-liter Camaro SS models and fits like an OEM part. Benefits of the Elite Carbon Series kit include:

  • Dyno tested power increase
  • Enhanced performance and fuel economy
  • Improved intake noise

Upgrading to a CAI Cold Air Intake is quick and easy thanks to our custom designed products and simple installation procedure. Our intakes are built to last, and the reusable air filter element will save you money over a stock system.

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed air box intake systems since 2004. We offer a lifetime warranty. Check out our range of high-quality intakes here. Then contact our team to order the cold air induction kit that sounds as good as it performs.

Cold Air Inductions Turns 20!

We’re proud to announce that we’re celebrating two decades of intake innovation this year! Since 2004, we’ve been creating some of the best cold air intakes around, and have earned the title of Tier-1 OEM supplier.

Back in the early 2000’s, our founder, owner and president, James Newsome, made it his mission to find a way to make more horsepower and torque. He decided to engineer an intake system that could deliver truly colder air and boost both the power and quality of performance. He engineered and built a superior intake himself, and Cold Air Inductions was born.

The journey began with the creation of a well-built durable, lightweight, and thermal coated aluminum intake system. Our full catalog of intakes has, over the last 20 years, expanded to include state-of-the-art filter designs, CAD engineered carbon fiber intakes, and more.

We’ve Come A Long Way

Today, our CAD engineering uses the same development tools employed by automotive manufacturers. Our R&D process is among some of the most advanced in the intake industry. We know what works, and what doesn’t – we’ve done the testing to prove it!

Our vehicle-specific intake systems also come with specially designed filters. The shape, pleat-count and layers of the filtration media in our air filters are all engineered for optimum airflow with the least amount of turbulence, not just what will fit in the air box.

We’re excited to celebrate the amazing progress we’ve seen in just 2 short decades – and we look forward to continually expanding and improving our product line. Our passion for power never fades – cheers to 20 years!

Power, Performance, and Efficiency – The Best Chevy Silverado Cold Air Intake

Upgrading your Chevy Silverado’s performance has never been easier with a Cold Air Inductions cold air intake system. In this video, the Lone Star Hawaiian installs a CAI intake on his 2020 Chevy Silverado and talks about the performance benefits.

Quick And Easy Installation

According to Lone Star Hawaiian, installing the CAI intake on his 2020 Silverado Trail Boss not only adds a few horsepower but helps it “make some amazing sounds.” Combined with a muffler delete, the truck is transformed into something “truly epic” that he enjoys driving.

As shown in the video, the CAI kit is a high-quality cold air intake system designed to fit specific models, like the 2019 to 2024 Chevy Silverado with the 5.3-liter or 6.2-liter V8 engine. Unlike many plastic intake systems, our kit includes an aluminum air box with a clear inspection window and a thermal-coated intake tube, which insulates the air flowing into your engine, keeping it cool.

Lone Star Hawaiian is clearly impressed by the quality of the kit, including the “really well thought-out and executed instructions.” Not only do they include, clear, detailed step-by-step photos, but make it a cinch to install the CAI intake. Using only a few hand tools, you can install the kit in less than an hour, even if you’re not a seasoned mechanic.

Adding Power And Better Sound

Taking the Silverado for a test drive, Lone Star Hawaiian immediately notices a difference. Not only does his 2020 Trail Boss Silverado sound better, but it’s “lighter on her feet.” The sound is throatier with a “wisp of intake charge noise.” Coupled with the muffler delete, the Silverado sounds transformed and may be the perfect combo for his vehicle.

From our own extensive testing, we know that the CAI cold air intake will add up to 11 horsepower at the wheels and provide better fuel economy. It also wakes up your engine, making it more responsive. All while improving engine sound and adding a stylish, custom look to your truck’s engine.

Take Your Truck To The Next Level With A CAI Cold Air Intake

In addition to the Silverado, we make kits for other Chevrolet and GMC Trucks as well as SUVs. Or check out our selection of cold air intakes for other vehicles to find the perfect fit! With CAI, you’re not just upgrading your car or truck; you’re getting the following benefits that will enhance your driving experience:

  • Proven Performance: Our intakes are dyno-tested with results to support our claims.
  • Quality Materials: Only the highest quality materials are used to ensure durability and efficiency.
  • Easy Installation: Designed for a straightforward install, getting you back on the road faster.

For more information and to view our full range of products, visit Cold Air Inductions. You can also check out the full review as written by Lone Star Hawaiian below:

There’s no doubt that Cold Air Intake systems are incredibly popular. Typically, the first thing “enthusiasts” do when they buy a car if it doesn’t already have one, is pull out the stock intake system and replace it with a “Cold Air Intake System.” Part of the reason they are so popular is 1) they are easy to install, and 2) they work well. And how they work is surprisingly elementary. Here is a recap of the install of a Cold Air Induction Elite Series cold air intake for my 2020 Silverado Trail Boss:

Shortly after purchasing my brand-new 2020 Silverado Trail Boss, I quickly noticed two things that needed to be changed, immediately. The first was the lack of “noise” a typical truck should make. Without an exhaust tone that was audible from the cab, it is near impossible to hear or feel your truck’s RPM. Without literally looking down at your tach, the amount of effort you’re asking from your tried-and-true V8 is a complete mystery. This was easily solved with a muffler delete kit from AFE, which quickly livened the truck up for a low cost and easy install. The truck is still equipped with a restrictive exhaust with cats and multiple resonators, so my neighbors don’t hate me…yet.

The next issue I needed to tackle was the hideous and extremely restrictive stock air intake system. When Chevrolet redesigned what is the “new and improved” Silverado for 2019, they redesigned the entire engine bay. The airbox moved from the passenger-side, where it lived for generations, to the driver-side of the engine bay. Also with the redesign came an extremely aggressive front end. Additional brackets were added at the front corners of the engine bay causing the stock air-box to be mounted much closer to the engine than the previous generations. When you move the stock plastic air box right next to the 8-cylinder furnace (also known as your engine), it’s easy to believe the air being fed through the stock filter and box is hotter than it needs to be. This is where a Cold Air Intake becomes a huge advantage.

So why don’t manufacturers do this from the factory? The cylinders in internal combustion engines generate power through controlled explosions with fuel and air. Typically, your stock engine does not receive as much air as it should for an optimal combustion cycle. Stock air intakes are designed to keep engine noise level to a minimum by using restrictive bends and a disposable filter usually at the expense of horsepower and efficiency. Surprising, right? If you are buying a truck, especially a Trail Boss, chances are you don’t expect the noise level to be kept to that of a Rolls-Royce. By freeing up the restrictive flow, you allow your engine to intake air more efficiently, and in a related benefit, it sounds dang good. But that’s only part of the advantage. 

The “Cold Air” portion of Cold Air Intakes provide both increased performance and better fuel efficiency, and how this works is pretty simple. If you think back to your 7th-grade chemistry class, you’ll remember that when you compare hot air to cold air, the air molecules of hot air are spread much further apart than cold air. As air is cooled it becomes much denser, which means more oxygen. If you have a charge of cold air into a confined area, like an engine cylinder, you have much more oxygen molecules in that cylinder than you would have with hot air. And more oxygen equals more powerful and efficient combustion. This results not only in increased horsepower (upwards of +14 hp with Cold Air Inductions system), but increased fuel efficiency. So, more power and you save money at the pump. Does it get any better?

The Cold Air Inductions intake system is constructed of high-quality heat-shielding material that prevents any heat soak. As you drive on hot summer days, you have confidence that the high flow filament filter and streamlined MAF tube will allow cold air to be sucked in through the shielded intake box to be converted into horsepower and big smiles. The combination of AFE’s muffler delete and Cold Air Inductions intake system creates an intoxicating sound that will most certainly lead to a very heavy right foot.

As an easy power-adding-gas-saving modification, the Cold Air Inductions intake system for the 2019–2020 Silverado is an absolute no-brainer. The truck feels lighter on its feet, and the throttle is crispy as a potato chip. The combination of sound and throttle response typically leads to feelings of horsepower gains, but this cannot be verified without a before/after dyno test. Even though I cannot verify the claimed +12 / +14 hp, I can claim an immediate increase in fuel efficiency. After several hundred miles driving, my highway mileage has increased from 19.5 mpg to 22 mpg. Cold Air Inductions’ intake on my Silverado is going to pay for itself in no time with these increases. But as for the smiles it puts on my face at wide-open throttle, it’s priceless.