Upgrade Your Camaro Stock Intake With An Elite Carbon Cold Air Intake From CAI

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If you’re a fan of fast cars and big horsepower, you’ve probably considered swapping out your stock air intake system. Dyno tests show that installing a cold air intake system can boost horsepower, giving you more performance and a better intake sound.

The improved airflow to your engine can also benefit fuel economy. So why wait? You can install the ZL1 Elite Carbon Series yourself, and enjoy enhanced performance in minutes.

ZL1 Elite Carbon Series Intake System

The Elite Carbon Series is our flagship cold air intake. It is constructed almost completely out of carbon fiber. It includes:

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

The ZL1 Elite Carbon Series system uses carbon fiber construction. Benefits include light weight, strength, durability, and heat dissipation properties. The intake tube boasts a sleek design, and the air filter box includes a clear plexiglass window. This allows you to check the filter’s condition to know when it needs cleaning or replacing.

Stainless steel clamps ensure the system remains securely attached. While a flexible coupler facilitates easy connection to the throttle body. Additionally, it comes equipped with a high-performance air filter. This kit is compatible with the 2017-2021 Camaro ZL1. Check out our range of Elite Series cold air induction kits, too.

The Installation Process

Replacing an air intake system may seem scary if you don’t work on your car. But it’s quite straightforward, particularly with this kit. It includes all the necessary components and an excellent installation guide to help you along the way. Watch the video below to see how simple the process can be:

  1. Start by loosening the clamps and screws on your current air intake system. Carefully remove the mass air flow (MAF) sensor and detach the PCV tube. Once everything is disconnected, remove the entire assembly from the car.
  2. Next, begin the assembly process, which is straightforward. Connect the carbon fiber intake tube to the high-performance filter by screwing them together. Place the air filter inside the filter housing box and secure it. Wrap the foam gasket around the lower intake of the filter box.
  3. Attach the coupler boot to the throttle body tube, making sure to follow the directions indicated for proper orientation. Then, fit the intake tube into the other end of the coupler boot. It’s best to connect the intake tube side first, then pivot the air filter box into its final position.
  4. Secure the system by tightening the stainless-steel clamps around the coupler boot first to ensure a tight fit. Attach the air filter body to the car using the retainer clips that fit into the grommets on your vehicle.
  5. Lastly, reconnect the PCV tube and carefully reinsert the MAF sensor into its slot on the intake tube. As demonstrated in the video, it might be a snug fit, so proceed slowly to avoid any damage.

Cold Air Inductions Has The Perfect Kit For Your Camaro

It’s that simple to upgrade your Camaro’s performance and intake sound and enhance its fuel efficiency. As the video shows, installing our cold air intake system is easy. Every kit includes detailed instructions that are easy to follow. If you prefer a visual guide to the installation process, watch the video above.

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

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

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.

How To Find A Quality Silverado Intake For A Reasonable Price

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Experience the next level of performance with Cold Air Inductions Silverado Cold Air Intake. In this series of videos, Leaman Griffin dives into every detail of this affordable, must-have modification for truck enthusiasts. Check out his in-depth review, testimonial, and installation tips below!

Unboxing And First Impressions

“In a world where car and truck Cold Air Intake brands are a dime a dozen, it can be hard to stand out. Like many performance enthusiasts, my early days in the custom car and truck scene involved going to EBay and finding the cheapest parts I could, then waiting weeks if not months for them to arrive from overseas (usually China). It was all about spending the least amount of money, and having the most aftermarket parts on my ride. Fast forward to today and not much has changed, except one thing. I learned to understand the importance of quality aftermarket parts. My current vehicle is a 2019 Silverado RST. I purchased it back in March of 2019 and immediately I was looking for aftermarket parts to install. A Cold Air Intake System for my 2019 Silverado RST was one of the first items on my list, as it is for most enthusiasts. My search turned up very few results though, being that this is a new generation of Silverado in its first production year. Enter Cold Air Inductions Inc. They manufacture Cold Air Intakes for a wide variety of late model cars and trucks, and specifically several for GM and Chevy like Chevy Colorado intakes, Canyon intakes, and Camaro intakes. After researching the company and the product, I decided to try them out.”

From the start, Leaman Griffin was impressed with how thoroughly the Cold Air Intake was packed and with the quality of the components. He was expecting sheet metal parts and was surprised at the quality of the air box with its plexiglass window and the other components.

Overall, Griffin thought it was a nice quality kit with some unexpected details, like high-quality rubber gaskets and solid cast components. He also found the instruction guide easy to read, providing clear instructions on how to install all of the components, including the hose to the PCV valve.

“I received a tracking number for my order the very next day, which came as a nice surprise since usually with other manufacturers you have to wait days before your order shows as shipped. I ordered the Elite Series Cold Air Intake System for the 2019-2020 Silverado 1500 equipped with the 5.3L V8 engine. After a few days of checking tracking every couple of hours, the intake system arrived!  The packaging was neat and well thought out. Everything was wrapped and protected so as not to scratch any of the parts during transit. Upon initial inspection, the quality of this Cold Air Intake System was outstanding.  All of the welds looked neat and even. The intake tube was coated both inside and out, and all of the rubber connectors and clamps were high quality. I was expecting the Cold Air box to be sheet metal and I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was actually thick cast metal. The cast metal is still lightweight, but the extra thickness acts as a barrier keeping hot air out of the intake box.  They even went as far as to key the MAF port so that you can’t install the MAF sensor backwards. All hardware was included, as well as very detailed instructions with photos.”

Detailed Silverado Installation Guide

Installation was a breeze, thanks to the clear instructions and the labeling on all of the components. Griffin discovered that you actually need very few tools for installation – just a ratchet wrench with a few different size sockets and a couple of screwdrivers. He also found that the CAI kit was easy to install and bolted together in very little time. In fact, with the right tools, it can take as little as 30 minutes to swap out your airbox and install a CAI Cold Air Intake system.

“This Cold Air Intake System was very well engineered, and that showed during installation. After skimming over the instructions to get a general sense of the task at hand, I collected my tools and began. I only needed a few sockets, a few screwdrivers, and an allen wrench to complete the installation. In true gearhead fashion, I installed the Cold Air Intake System in my driveway, mere feet from a nice shaded garage.  I was too eager to spend the extra 30 seconds pulling my truck inside. Pulling off the factory air intake was probably the most difficult part of the entire process. Once it was all removed, there were only a few bolts and clamps to tighten and I was done! The fit is that of a factory setup. Everything looks in its home and all of the components are showcased in the engine bay.”

Performance Review And Road Test

“Typically, a Cold Air Intake System won’t net you any performance gains without an ECM tune. This prompted me to head straight to the Dyno and see for myself. These trucks are still ECM locked from the factory, so any performance gains I see would surely be from the intake system. After establishing a baseline run of a whopping 277 horsepower to the rear wheels with the stock intake setup (and heavy 26” wheels ), it was time to reinstall the Cold Air Inductions unit and let her rip once more! I was surprised to see much smoother power delivery across the RPMs, especially in the higher range. Overall I saw a gain of 5 horsepower to the wheels, and 6.5 foot pounds of torque with the peak horsepower hitting at 5300 RPM and the max torque at 4900 RPM. All of this running on 87 octane pump gas. The real fun with this Cold Air Intake System comes in the day to day driving. Punch the throttle and you can hear the intake sucking air with force. I’m used to hearing the engine revving as I accelerate through the RPMs, but the addition of this intake has deepened the sound drastically. Trucks are not sporty by any means, but the more aggressive sound has me giving the throttle a little more foot than normal! As I am writing this I have had the Cold Air Inductions Inc. Cold Air Intake System on my truck for about a week, and around 1000 miles (I drive a lot).  The one thing I was the most pleased with was the additional gas mileage. One of the great features of modern cars and trucks is the onboard computer systems. I can see my average MPG over the last 50 miles, or 400 miles. I keep a watch on the 400 mile average because it is the most accurate depiction of how I drive. The 50 mile average is too affected by the occasional run up to 5k RPMs as well as sitting in traffic. Only one of which I enjoy. After a week of driving, my 400 mile average has gone up about .7 MPG. While this is great, I’m sure it would have gone up more had I not enjoyed the throttle as much. Rest assured, I will never know!”

Installing the wrong cold air intake can be worse than sticking with a stock unit because it can actually reduce your vehicle’s performance. That’s why CAI kits include:

  • Inspection window on certain kits – great to check the reusable air filters
  • Powder-coated aluminum components to reduce intake temps
  • Perfectly insulated air boxes to maximize cold airflow
  • OEM-spec fasteners and connectors

As Griffin’s dyno runs show, the CAI Cold Air Intake provided a noticeable gain at the rear wheels right off the bat with no other modifications. This goes to show that while every vehicle is different, choosing a CAI Cold Air Intake system will provide you with:

  • A noticeable horsepower (HP) boost
  • Enhanced engine efficiency

“In conclusion, I am very pleased with this addition to my 2019 Silverado. The Cold Air Intake System again earned it’s spot as one of the first items that should be purchased when beginning to mod your car or truck, and Cold Air Inductions Inc. knocked it out of the park with this system. The increase in horsepower is not just noticeable, it’s thrilling. Now it’s time to get back to the Internet and search for the next mod to my truck!”

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

Ready to experience these benefits on your Chevy Silverado or other GM vehicle? Check out our selection of cold air intakes and 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.

Gain Horsepower With A CAI Chevy Camaro Cold Air Intake

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Do you own a 2016-2024 Chevy Camaro V6 and want to increase your horsepower? Then a Cold Air Intake is the perfect upgrade for you.

Our high-performance intake has been custom designed for the 3.6-liter Chevy Camaro and offers OEM levels of fit and finish. Install it in minutes and enhance the sound and power of your Camaro without needing to modify the ECU.

Real Power Gains And Enhanced Sound

At CAI, we don’t just make power claims, we do real power testing on each specific model. We use a state-of-the-art flow bench, computer simulations and a chassis dyno for our power tests. You get an intake that been through proper dyno power tests for your specific model.

We have seen gains of up to 13 horsepower, with an 11-horsepower average improvement. That means an additional 36.9 horsepower and enhanced intake sound in just a few minutes.

Installation Is Easy

The 2016-2024 Chevy Camaro intake system comes with everything you need. Each kit is precision engineered and tested to deliver results. Detailed instructions allow you to replace your stock intake with our system in minutes. The reusable high-performance air filter can be cleaned periodically using our cleaning kit.

2016-24 Camaro 3.6L V6 Intake System Components

  • Insulated Aluminum Air Box with Clear Inspection Window
  • High-Performance Air Filter (CF-7322)
  • Thermal-Coated Intake Tube
  • Black Silicone Coupler and Stainless Clamps
  • Comprehensive Installation Instructions

Our intakes are easy to install, and they’re even easier with our included instructions (with photos) and the many installation videos we provide. Check out this comprehensive video on how to install your CAI Camaro cold air intake:

Tools Required

  • Ratchet and 10mm Socket
  • T30 Torx
  • T20 Torx
  • 8mm Nut Driver
  • 3mm Allen Wrench
  • 2.5mm Allen Wrench

Installation Steps

  1. Turn off engine and allow the engine bay to cool down. Then remove oil fill cap
  2. Disconnect negative battery terminal (10mm socket)
  3. Remove plastic engine cover (T30 torx) and loosen hose clamps (8mm nut driver)
  4. Disconnect PCV fitting, hose and sound enhancer tube then remove inlet duct
  5. Remove air induction housing clip and disconnect MAF sensor
  6. Remove stock air induction housing assembly (retain 3 OEM grommets)
  7. Remove MAF sensor from stock housing (T20 Torx) and install on CAI MAF tube (2.5mm Allen Wrench)
  8. Install performance air induction housing and air filter element
  9. Install CAI MAF tube (8mm nut driver. Dot must be facing filter)
  10. Reconnect inlet duct to performance air induction housing
  11. Reconnect PCV and sound enhancer tube and MAF sensor
  12. Install housing cover over air box (3mm Allen Wrench)
  13. Reinstall engine cover, engine oil fill cap and battery cable

The entire process can take as little as 20 minutes, and you should already have most of these tools in your garage.

Order Your Camaro Cold Air Induction System Today

Cold Air Inductions is the leading manufacturer of sealed air box intake systems. We offer a lifetime warranty. And we use real-world dyno testing procedures to deliver real-world benefits. Our systems fit without any changes to the OEM sensors or connections. Check out our range of high-quality Camaro intakes here. Then contact our team to order the cold air induction kit that delivers on its promises.

Installing A CAI Carbon Fiber Chevy Camaro Cold Air Intake

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Discover how you can unlock the true potential of your Camaro with Cold Air Inductions’ Carbon Fiber Cold Air Intake system. In this detailed video summary, we’ll look into the performance enhancements and sleek design of one of the most recommended upgrades for any Camaro enthusiast.

A Closer Look at Performance and Installation

Key Highlights

“You get the peace of mind that comes with a beautiful colored manual with step-by-step instructions, really, anybody can do this install.”

Lucas, IDriveFast

In the video, Lucas with IDriveFast installs a carbon fiber cold air intake for his 2018 Camaro LZ1 1LE. Right off the bat, he notices two things about the Elite Carbon Series Intake that make it stand out from other air intake systems:

  • Stylish, Innovative Design: The intake is crafted from high-quality carbon fiber, ensuring durability while adding a custom edge to your engine bay.
  • Ease of Installation: Like all Cold Air Induction intakes, the Elite Carbon Series is easy to install. It bolts right into the factory location using factory hardware and clamps.

Real Performance Gains

“Cold Air Inductions is the #1 air intake out there for the Camaro…and a lot of other vehicles. I will say the carbon fiber on it is immaculate…beautiful.”

Lucas, IDriveFast

Like every CAI intake, the Elite Carbon Series is one of the most extensively developed intake systems on the market. That way, you can be sure you’re not only getting a great-looking intake but also getting real performance gains, including:

  • Enhanced Engine Performance: The system is designed to significantly improve airflow to your engine, which can increase horsepower and torque. That optimized airflow also allows your engine to perform better under various conditions.
  • Heat Reduction: The carbon fiber material acts as a natural heat barrier, keeping incoming air cooler than stock intakes or plastic intakes from other brands.
  • Sound Enhancement: Not only does the intake system improve performance, but it also enhances the sound of your engine, giving you a more satisfying driving experience.

Explore how Cold Air Inductions utilizes state-of-the-art technology to craft intakes that offer superior performance. Check out the Elite Series Technology page to learn more about the research and development behind these advanced systems.

Why Choose Cold Air Inductions?

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!

Upgrade Your Silverado/Sierra Intake With A CAI System

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If you’re a Silverado or Sierra truck enthusiast who is chasing more horsepower, Cold Air Inductions now offers a cold air intake system for your turbocharged engine. This intake is a full-blown transformation for your truck’s performance, sound, and throttle response. This Cold Air Inductions intake is a must-have for your 2.7L turbo or TurboMax™ engine.

Enhanced Power And Aggressive Sound

When you hit the gas, you want to feel an immediate surge of power and hear an aggressive engine note. This Cold Air Inductions intake kit reduces heat soak with  thermal coated tubes, so your engine breathes in cooler air. This translates to noticeable gains in horsepower and torque. You can learn more about the intricate design of our intakes here.

Filter Window Allows You To Peek Under the Hood

This Cold Air Inductions intake integrates a clear air box window that allows you to check the system’s filter status with ease. You no longer need to disassemble your intake to check the air filter. A quick glance lets you gauge filter cleanliness, and a simple cleaning and oiling with the CAI recharge kit will bring the system back to optimal performance. It’s the kind of thoughtful design that truck owners appreciate.

USA Made Quality

Our intakes have a solid reputation for high-quality construction. That is due, in part, to our proudly USA-made design and production. Every component is premium and is manufactured in the USA.

Easy Installation

Some basic mechanical knowledge is all that’s needed for the install. The complete system includes:

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

This intake fits the 2019-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 or GMC Sierra 1500 with a 2.7L turbocharged engine. Should you hit a snag or have a question about installation, our customer service team is just a click or call away.

If you’re after a blend of performance enhancement, ease of maintenance, and an undeniable cool factor, this cold air intake system is the upgrade you’ve been waiting for. Upgrade your truck today!

Do All Air Intake Systems Provide Performance Gains?

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Ever wondered how much of a difference a high-quality cold air intake can make on your Pontiac GTO? This video from DiabloFormula Racing dives into the transformative power of CAI’s Cold Air Intake system, showcasing noticeable performance gains.

Let’s break down the key highlights and takeaways from the test.

The Power Of Cold Air: A Closer Look

Installing the wrong cold air intake may be even worse than sticking with a stock unit. Many aftermarket intake systems are made from injection-molded plastic and are not sealed or insulated, which can actually reduce your car’s performance. At Cold Air Inductions, our kits include:

  • Inspection window on certain kits – great to check the reusable air filters
  • Powder-coated aluminum components to reduce intake temps
  • Perfectly insulated air boxes to maximize cold airflow
  • OEM-spec fasteners and connectors

We also retain the stock OEM sensors, making our kits easy to install in just about 30 minutes. Every cold air intake system is built to the highest quality – that’s why we’re a Tier 1 OEM supplier. Our intakes are tested to ensure they deliver real performance gains, including:

  • Immediate HP Increase: You get a noticeable horsepower (HP) boost provided by CAI’s Cold Air Intake system.
  • Enhanced Engine Efficiency: Cooler air can not only improve performance but enhance your GTO’s engine efficiency.

Seeing Is Believing: The Video Breakdown

In this video, DiabloFormula Racing takes us through the journey of upgrading a 2005-2006 Pontiac 6.0L V8 GTO with a CAI Cold Air Intake. The GTO was tuned and dyno-tested before the CAI intake installation. After installation, the GTO saw an increase of 5hp and 3ft-lbs of torque without ANY additional tuning. From unboxing to the final roar of the engine, it’s a testament to the tangible benefits of quality aftermarket parts.

Take Your GTO To The Next Level

“With CAI’s intake, we’re not just talking about numbers; we’re talking about a driving experience transformed.”

–DiableFormula Racing

Ready to experience these benefits on your Pontiac GTO or other performance vehicle? Check out our selection of cold air intakes and find the perfect fit. With CAI, you’re not just upgrading your car; you’re getting the following benefits that will enhance your driving experience:

  • Proven Performance: Our intakes are dyno-tested with results to back up 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 or click the button below.

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The First Mods You Should Make On A Chevy Camaro

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If you own a fifth- or sixth-generation Camaro, there are plenty of great mods you can do to enhance its performance and looks. Even a base Camaro is a potent vehicle, the 3.6-liter V6 pumps out between 304 and 335hp depending on the model year, and the 6.2-liter V8 makes up to 455hp in stock form. The supercharged V8, meanwhile, delivers a sledgehammer 650hp.

But more is always better, and Motor Fire put together a great video showing five of the best mods that will give you the extra power and visual edge to let your Camaro stand out from the crowd.

1.) A Cold Air Inductions Intake System

There’s simply no better or quicker way to enhance the intake sound and performance of your Camaro than with a CAI Cold Air Induction System. Thanks to precision engineering and comprehensive installation instructions, our CAI intakes can be installed in minutes and show gains of 11 rear wheel horsepower on average. We stock intakes for a wide variety of 5th and 6th Gen Camaro models:

Check out this video by Motor Fire, demonstrating the benefits of our CAI cold air intake in 6th Gen V8 Camaro:

For a stock look that takes just minutes to install, the CAI cold air intake is your only choice. Motor Fire mentions that you get better throttle response, more power, and improved fuel economy. All without needing to tune the ECU.

2.) Oil Catch Can

The second-best upgrade is also under the hood. It is an oil catch can that reduces carbon build-up on the intake valves and increases air turbulence to improve oil separation. It’s one of the cheapest and best mods you can do to extend the life of your engine. Installation time is just 20 minutes.

3.) Aftermarket Exhaust

Replacing your restrictive stock exhaust with a free-flowing aftermarket system will improve your car’s exhaust sound and unleash a few more horses in the process. Doing a full cat-back exhaust isn’t a cheap upgrade, but it is the most comprehensive way to add power and unleash your Camaro’s sound. After all, you get what you pay for.

A more cost-effective route is to do an axle-back muffler replacement. This will enhance the exhaust sound and the upgraded tailpipe tips will look great, too. There are plenty of different systems out there, so pick the one that works best for you.

4.) New Wheels

Replacement wheels aren’t going to enhance your Camaro’s acceleration, but they will definitely improve its looks. Motor Fire recommends Z28 wheels because they look great on any Camaro, but if your budget is tight, powder coating factory wheels is also an option.

Fitting larger diameter or wider wheels will really enhance your car’s looks and can also improve handling and grip levels. Just remember that fitting very low profile tires can make the ride much harder over bumps.

5.) Body Kits and Ground Effects

Some Camaros come with aero components from the factory. If yours didn’t, adding them to a stock car can instantly enhance the aesthetics of even a base V6 Camaro.

Adding splitters, side skirts and a rear wing can give your car a very racy and aggressive look, and unless you go for a pure carbon-fiber option, it can also be reasonably cost effective.

Get The Best Cold Air Intake On The Market For Your Camaro

Whatever upgrade you plan for your Camaro, make sure to install a cold air intake first. Cold Air Inductions is the leading manufacturer of sealed air box intake systems, and we offer a lifetime warranty. We use real-world dyno testing procedures to deliver real-world benefits. Our systems fit without any changes to the OEM sensors or connections.

Check out our range of high-quality Camaro intakes here. Then contact our team to order the cold air induction kit that delivers on its promises.

What Does It Mean To Be A Tier 1 OEM Supplier?

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When it comes to aftermarket cold air intakes, performance enthusiasts are spoiled for choice. However, not all cold air intakes are created equal. Some air intakes are made by companies that supply parts to OEMs (like we do).

Our journey from an aftermarket innovator to a tier 1 OEM supplier is a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation. In this blog post, we’ll explore what it means to be a tier 1 OEM supplier, why we don’t make our cold air intake kits out of plastic, and how these things make our products different.

What It Means To Be A Tier 1 OEM Supplier

First, let’s clarify what a Tier 1 OEM supplier is:

  • If you make parts or assemblies that are used to build or modify a new vehicle, then you’re an OEM supplier
  • If you make parts or assembles that are used to build or modify a new vehicle – and you sell them directly to the automaker – then you’re a Tier 1 OEM supplier

Being an OEM supplier is great, as it means you make a quality product. But being a Tier 1 supplier is better: Not only are you making a high quality product, you’re also certifying that every one of your products will meet the automaker’s very high standards.

A typical OEM supplier will send parts to someone else, and then that party will do the testing and the quality control. Typical OEM suppliers have a little bit of latitude to make mistakes. Tier 1 suppliers (like our company) have no latitude. The buck stops with us.

It’s hard to become a Tier 1 supplier, and even harder to maintain that status. Most companies don’t bother, and we think that says something about their commitment to quality.

Here’s Why The Quality Of Every Intake Really Matters

A lot of people think about air intake kits the same way they think about plumbing: A bigger air intake tube can flow more air, so a bigger intake is better.

However, the size of the air intake tube is basically determined by engine displacement: At wide open throttle (WOT), your engine can only use a specific volume of air. Bigger engines need bigger intake tubes, and smaller engines need smaller intake tubes. Any inconsistency in the size of the tubing is bad:

  • Too much air flow from an oversize tube means the engine runs lean, reducing power and risking engine damage
  • Too little air flow from an undersize tube means the engine runs rich, wasting fuel and losing power

In other words, what you really really want from your air intake tube is precision. The air intake tube needs to flow a very specific volume of air. That means the tube needs to have a uniform thickness and cross-sectional area from one end to the other. Any variations or inconsistencies will change air flow and impact performance.

And Here’s Why We Don’t Make Our Intakes From Plastic

So we told you all of that business about being a tier 1 supplier and air intake tubing to tell you this: It’s very very difficult to make a quality air intake tube out of plastic without spending a lot of money.

1. Factory Air Intakes Are Almost Always Injection Molded Plastic

Most OEM air intakes are injection molded plastic for a couple of reasons:

  • Injection molding is fairly precise – definitely good enough for an air intake
  • Injection molding is very consistent from piece to piece, which is also really important (as explained above)

The trouble is that injection molds are extremely costly – $1 million+ per mold. If you’re an automaker manufacturing hundreds of thousands of parts with the same mold, the cost per piece is pretty good. But if you’re a small aftermarket air intake manufacturer? You can’t afford to spend millions on molds.

2. Most Aftermarket Air Intakes Are Roto-molded Plastic

Rotational molded plastic (aka roto-molded plastic) is what most companies use for their air intake tubing because roto-molding is a very affordable. A roto-mold costs 1/20th as much as an injection mold. This means that, instead of spending $1 million on an injection mold like an automaker would, after-market air intake manufacturers spend $50,000+ on a roto-mold.

The trouble is, roto-molding is very inconsistent. Roto-molding works by pouring hot plastic into a mold and then spinning the mold as the plastic cools. In theory, the plastic will cool uniformly and piece will be good enough. In reality:

  • Roto-molded plastic will have different thicknesses in different spots, as it’s hard to get the molten plastic to flow consistently
  • Roto-molded plastic does not cool uniformly, which means the interior surface of the tube has lumps and thin spots
  • The cross-sectional area of a roto-molded air intake tube will vary as much as 8% from one end to the other, which means air flow can vary as much as 8% from one kit to the next

As a Tier 1 supplier, we can not make air intake tubes out of roto-molded plastic. Our product would never pass quality control. It would be too inconsistent from kit to kit: Some people would get a kit that was perfect sized and worked great, and some people would get a kit that flowed the wrong amount of air and didn’t work at all.

By the way, if you’ve ever wondered why some people say the cold air intake kits are great, and other people say they don’t work or don’t make a difference, now you know why.

3. Also, Plastic Is An Insulator That Retains Heat

The other reason we don’t use plastic: It’s an insulator. As the engine compartment warms up, any plastic under the hood warms up too. And once a plastic air intake tube warms up, it stays warm because it’s an insulator.

Of course, a metal intake tube under the hood will also warm up. However, metal doesn’t have the insulating properties of plastic. As more air flows into the engine, the air intake cools down. And here at Cold Air Inductions we also thermally insulate our air intake tubing with a special coating, further improving the thermal properties.

Here’s What To Look For In A Cold Air Intake Kit

We might be a little biased, but we think these are the qualities of a great cold air intake kit.

1. Metal Construction. Metal has better thermal properties than plastic. It’s also stronger and will last longer than roto-molded plastic, which can shatter or crack over time.

2. Consistent Intake Tube Diameter: Air intake tube diameter is arguably the most important aspect of a performance air intake. If the tube flows a little too much air – or not quite enough – it will not perform correctly at wide open throttle (WOT). Roto-molded plastic air intake kits have a lot of problems with oversize or undersize tubing because of the way they’re made. In fact, almost all roto-molded parts have a section that’s too thin or too thick, throwing off the air flow by a significant amount.

3. Lifetime Warranty. If an air intake is well made, it should last the lifetime of the vehicle or longer. And a good Lifetime Warranty should NOT have exclusions for normal off-road use, track use, or commercial use. A “lifetime” warranty with a bunch of exclusions isn’t.

4. Premium Reusable Air Filter That’s Made In The USA. Several companies offer engine air filters that are re-usable, but it’s important to verify the filter itself is Made in the USA. Imported filters often use inferior quality filter media to keep costs down, but the consequence of a cheap air filter is either poor performance or poor filtration. Poor performance is no fun; poor filtration can cause long-term engine damage. We wouldn’t ever recommend an air intake kit without a US-made air filter.

We’re A Tier 1 Supplier Because We Make A Great Product

Finishing where we started, the secret to our success as a company has been our dedication to quality and innovation. And the evidence of our dedication is our status as a tier 1 OEM supplier.

Being a tier 1 supplier isn’t easy. A lot of companies can’t or won’t do it because of the strict quality requirements. But every one of our products is designed and manufactured to meet or exceed rigorous specs, and we document every step of the process.

We know we’re biased, but we think we make the best quality cold air intake kits in the industry. Our customers rate our products very highly, and we do business with some of the biggest automakers in the world. Why buy from anyone else?

Back To Back Test: CAI Intake On A 2016 Camaro SS

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Performance cars are built with high quality parts, but that doesn’t mean that there isn’t room for improvement. The sixth generation Chevy Camaro SS is already an impressive performer. It comes stock with a 455hp 6.2-liter V8 that can launch it from 0-60mph in just 4.5-seconds.

It can also cover the quarter mile in just over 12-seconds. That’s quick even for modified V8s. Bad Bowtie Productions decided to take their 2016 Camaro SS to the dragstrip to find out what it would do stock. Then they installed a CAI Cold Air Intake to see whether it made a difference. Read on to find out.

Stock Runs

First off, they did three stock passes to get a baseline:

  1. ET 12.03@116mph
  2. ET 12.01@117mph
  3. ET 11.99@117mph

The baseline average works out to an elapsed time of [email protected]. Those are pretty healthy numbers for a bone stock Camaro SS. Clearly the track surface and car were as good as it was going to get. The car was left to cool down for an hour, during which the CAI Cold Air Intake was installed. The entire process took just 15 minutes with basic tools.

It was then driven straight to the drag strip without waiting for the ECU to recalibrate to the additional airflow.

CAI Intake Runs

The Bad Bowtie Productions crew then did three passes with the new CAI kit installed and reached an average elapsed time of [email protected]:

  1. ET 11.91@117mph
  2. ET 11.94@117mph
  3. ET 11.93@117mph

Every run was quicker than the fastest stock time, and while the overall improvement was just under 0.1-seconds, that should equate to a 10-15hp increase on a car like the Camaro SS. Not bad for a 15-minute upgrade that also enhances the intake sound in the process.

The Cold Air Inductions Difference

There are plenty of cold air induction kits on the market. What makes CAI stand out is the attention to detail and quality of every product we sell. Every kit is supplied with everything you need for a hassle-free installation. We use OEM-quality fittings and keep all original sensors.

  • Inspection window to check reusable air filters
  • Powder-coated aluminum parts to reduce intake temps and enhance performance
  • Air boxes designed to maximize cold airflow and OEM sensors are reused
  • OEM-spec fasteners and connectors
  • Superior intake sound to OEM intake
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Real-world testing for real-world performance

Order Your CAI Intake Kit Today

Upgrading to a CAI Cold Air Intake is quick and easy thanks to our custom designed products and simple installation procedure. Our intakes are designed to last, and the reusable air filter element will save you money, too.  Our popular 6th Gen Camaro intakes include:

Whether you choose the Elite Carbon Series  intake systems like Bad Bowtie Productions did for their Camaro SS, or the Elite Series intakes, CAI products are the perfect upgrade for any OEM setup.

Cold Air Inductions is a leading manufacturer of cold air intakes. And we stand by our products with a lifetime warranty. Get in touch with our team to order your kit today.

Easy Camaro Power Adder: The Cold Air Inductions Intake

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The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is one heck of a car. It’s responsive, powerful, and has the speed to back up its incredible looks. But if you own one, you’re probably always looking for ways to improve it, get a little more performance, or make it really stand out.

An easy way to accomplish all of that is with our Elite Carbon Series cold air intake. In the video below, we turn to Lonestar Hawaiian on YouTube for an in-depth look at installing this system in his dream car, the Camaro ZL1.

Check Out The Carbon Elite CAI Camaro Cold Air Intake

“Everybody needs a little carbon fiber in their life.”

– Lonestar Hawaiian

As Lonestar Hawaiian says, this cold air intake is a great way to add a little carbon fiber to your life. It fits any 2017 to 2021 Chevy Camaro ZL1 with a 6.2-liter V8 engine and comes with an airbox, intake tube, air filter, coupler, stainless steel clamps, and installation manual. The airbox features a clear plexiglass window that helps you monitor the condition of your air filter and adds some major style points when you pop the hood.

The Elite Carbon Series takes that style to a whole new level. The system produces the same great benefits as the Elite Series system, but the air box and intake tube pieces are constructed from carbon fiber, which looks great and is lightweight, strong, and resistant to temperature changes. It naturally maintains a cooler temperature than a metal or plastic intake, which improves your power and fuel efficiency even more, making it the perfect solution for your Camaro.

Installing A Cold Air Inductions Camaro Cold Air Intake

Installing one of our cold air intake systems for your Camaro is pretty simple, typically requiring less than 30 minutes to complete the following steps:

  • First, disconnect the negative battery terminal, which will help reset the system.
  • Loosen the hose clamps and unscrew the MAF sensor from your factory air intake tube.
  • Slide the air intake tube off of the throttle body and remove the air box and tube.
  • Then, follow the instructions to hook up your new cold air intake. Remember to 

If you watched Lonestar Hawaiian’s video, you saw that one of the best features of this cold air intake system is that it is designed to bolt right into place. In practically no time, he had it hooked up and his Camaro back on the road.

Lonestar Hawaiian notes in his video that it may not dramatically change your fuel economy. But who cares about gas efficiency when you’re talking about increasing power and performance?

Why Should You Have A Camaro Cold Air Intake?

No matter how you slice it, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 is one heck of a car. It’s powerful, fast, responsive, and looks incredible. A cold air intake is a ridiculously easy way to eke out a little more performance, particularly our Elite Carbon Series cold air intake.

Cold Air Inductions has been a leading manufacturer of sealed air box intake systems since 2004. We offer a lifetime product warranty and do real power testing to ensure our intake kits deliver noticeable improvements over stock performance.

Contact us to order your Camaro CAI cold air intake kit today!