Cold Air Intake Facts
A cold air intake is an aftermarket part that can add miles to an engine's life. Cold air intakes mix cold air, which is denser than hot air, with fuel. This combination produces better combustion of the fuel, which has a positive impact on the engine. There are many things to consider before purchasing and installing this part onto your vehicle.
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History
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The first commercially available cold air intake systems went on sale in the late 1980s. These models were manufactured by K&N Engineering.
Aesthetic Value
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Car enthusiasts and restorers sometimes add cold air intakes that match the engine bay components to add eye appeal to the car. These intakes are available in a varied selection of colors and styles, including chrome.
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Benefits
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Installing a cold air intake has numerous benefits, including better gas mileage, better throttle response and more horsepower. Another benefit is that cold air intakes utilize reusable filters, while factory air intakes use paper filters that must be replaced every 15,000 miles.
Considerations
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Generally, cold air intakes make the engine louder than factory installed intakes. Another complication comes when water gets into the intake, which can cause hydro-locking.
Legalities
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According to USC 50 § 2301 to 2312, a manufacturer's warranty is still valid even if the product has been modified unless the modification is the cause for the complications. This means that unless the vehicle manufacturer can prove that the cold air intake is the direct cause for problems with your vehicle, which is uncommon, your vehicle warranty will remain valid.
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