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Author: SPELAB Mechanical Engineer (focusing on car modification for 10 years)
The first recommended thing in the world of performance modification for a vehicle is the cold air intake system. Costing from a few bucks, releasing a considerable amount of power and easy installation are the key factors, which make it among the first performance upgrades for a newbie.
The question arises in mind that how much horsepower can be added if we install a cold air intake to our vehicle.This performance upgrades can add approximately 5-20 hp to your vehicle, depending on make, model, engine size and type of air intake.
Some high-flow systems, like those from SPELAB, can push it even further when combined with other mods like a performance exhaust or ECU tune.Thus, adding a cold air intake is among one of the most affordable as well as easiest ways to increase the engine’s power.
How Cold Air Intakes Work and Why They Boost Horsepower
To understand why a cold air intake system adds horsepower, it helps to look at what your engine really needs to make power: air, fuel, and spark. Of those three, air—specifically cool, dense air—plays a bigger role than most drivers realize. That’s where a cold air intake comes in.
From the factory, most vehicles are equipped with restrictive air intake systems designed more for quiet operation and cost savings than performance. They often pull warm air from the engine bay, which contains less oxygen per volume.
Cold air intakes, like those from SPELAB, are built to fix that. By relocating the filter away from engine heat—usually closer to the fender well—and using wider, smoother tubing, these systems feed your engine oxygen-rich cold air that burns fuel more efficiently and completely.
More oxygen equals better combustion. Better combustion equals more power.
It’s basic science, but the results aren’t so basic. For a 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 4.8L V8, just adding a cold air intake can improve throttle response dramatically. For a 2020 Ford F-150 EcoBoost, you’ll notice quicker turbo spool and stronger mid-range pull. And on something like a 2016 Dodge Charger 5.7L HEMI, expect a deeper intake growl and more power under load.
How Much Horsepower Can You Actually Gain?
Let’s get to the part everyone really wants to know—how much horsepower can a cold air intake actually add? The short answer: it depends on your vehicle, but the gains are real and noticeable.
Most cold air intakes offer a fixed gain of 5 to 25 horsepower. That’s a solid boost, especially for drivers of lighter vehicles or smaller engines. But here’s where SPELAB goes further: our systems are tested to deliver 5–10% more horsepower and 6–8% more torque. And when you do the math, that percentage can mean a lot more than just 15 HP.
For example:
On a 150 HP engine, that’s up to 15 extra HP
On a 300 HP engine, it could mean as much as 30 HP
So, if you're after real performance with real value, this is a mod that doesn’t disappoint.
What Makes SPELAB Cold Air Intakes Stand Out?
Not all cold air intakes are built the same—and SPELAB proves that. While many intake kits focus only on airflow, SPELAB cold air intake systems are designed to deliver performance, durability, and everyday usability. They’re engineered with drivers in mind, whether you're daily commuting or pushing limits on the weekend.
So, what sets SPELAB apart?
Stronger Construction
Each intake system features a black powder-coated aluminum pipe that resists heat and corrosion. It’s tough, lightweight, and built to last—especially when compared to plastic tubing that can warp or crack over time.
Washable High-Efficiency Filter
Our high-flow cone-shaped filter captures up to 95% of airborne particles, all while improving airflow. And it’s reusable—just clean it, dry it, and reinstall. No more buying throwaway filters every 12,000 miles.
Deep, Sporty Intake Sound
One of the first things drivers notice after installing a SPELAB intake is the sound. It doesn’t just breathe better—it roars better. Expect a deep, aggressive tone when you hit the throttle, without the drone of an aftermarket exhaust.
No Extra Parts Needed
Every SPELAB kit comes complete with everything you need—all clamps, couplers, and brackets included. No trips to the parts store, and no tune required for most vehicles. Just install and drive.
Vehicle-Specific Fitment
From the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 4.8L V8 to the 2020 Ford F-150 EcoBoost, SPELAB systems are designed for precise fitment and maximum performance across a wide range of platforms.
So, if you’re comparing options, consider this: SPELAB gives you performance that rivals high-end brands like K&N or aFe—but at a price that makes sense for real-world drivers.
Benefits of cold air intake
A boost in horsepower is great, but upgrading your cold air intake system will do much more than that. In fact, you can expect these additional benefits:
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Better Throttle Response
When your engine breathes easier, it reacts faster. That means quicker acceleration off the line, smoother power delivery, and less lag when you step on the gas. On vehicles like the 2016 Dodge Charger 5.7L HEMI, the improvement is instantly noticeable. -
Improved Fuel Efficiency
More efficient combustion doesn’t just make more power—it can also help your engine use less fuel under light throttle. Especially for highway driving, many SPELAB customers report 1–2 MPG gains after installing a cold air intake. -
Cleaner, More Complete Combustion
Cold, oxygen-rich air allows for more complete fuel burn, reducing the chance of unburnt fuel and carbon buildup. That means a cleaner engine over time—and less strain on your emissions system. -
Deeper Engine Sound
If you're not ready to upgrade your exhaust, a SPELAB intake still gives you that satisfying growl. It’s sporty but not obnoxious, giving your vehicle more personality without drawing the wrong kind of attention. -
Enhanced Driving Feel
Cold air intakes don’t just change the numbers—they change the feel. The driving experience becomes sharper, more responsive, and more connected—whether you’re daily driving or hitting the open road.
All these benefits, combined with low cost and easy installation, make a cold air intake one of the smartest performance upgrades for everyday drivers.
Installation Guide in Simple Steps
The stock air intake is installed near the engine, where there is influence of engine heat. Therefore, the sucked air is hotter and therefore, your combustion process suffers and eventually your engine.
However, the cold air intake is normally installed away from the engine in a heat shield to ensure that cold air is provided to the engine. The preferred location is near the fender wall, where the air is cold enough to provide better combustion.
One of the best things about upgrading to a SPELAB cold air intake system is how simple the installation really is. You don’t need a shop or a professional mechanic—just a basic tool set, a little time, and this straightforward 9-step process.
Here’s how to install it:
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Remove the cover of the air filter box
Pop the hood and take off the top cover of your stock air filter housing. -
Take out the stock filter
Slide out the paper filter—this is what’s been limiting your airflow. -
Disconnect the MAF (Mass Air Flow) sensor
Carefully unplug the wiring connector so you can safely remove it later. -
Remove the pipe from the throttle body
Loosen any clamps or couplers and pull the intake tube free from the engine. -
Take out the screws from the housing and remove the housing
Use a screwdriver or socket to detach the airbox housing from the vehicle frame. -
Remove the MAF sensor and set it aside
Unscrew the sensor from the old intake tube and keep it safe—you’ll need it for the new one. -
Install the new cold air intake pipe on the throttle body and tighten it
SPELAB’s aluminum intake pipe is designed for a perfect fit. Slide it in place and secure it with the provided clamps. -
Reinstall the MAF sensor and connect the wiring
Our kits come with a sensor mount and harness connection—so your ECU continues to get accurate readings. -
Attach the new cone-shaped air filter to the pipe
This high-flow, reusable filter is the final piece. Tighten the clamp, and you're done.
Maintenance Tips to Keep It Performing
Installing a cold air intake system is just the first step—keeping it clean and functioning properly is what ensures long-term performance. Luckily, maintaining your SPELAB cold air intake is simple, affordable, and doesn’t require any special skills.
Here’s how to keep your intake system in top shape:
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Clean the filter regularly
The high-flow cone filter in every SPELAB kit is designed to be washable and reusable. Over time, dust and debris will build up and restrict airflow. Most drivers should clean the filter every 8,000–12,000 miles, or more often if driving in dusty or off-road environments.Cleaning is easy:
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Remove the filter from the pipe
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Spray with a filter cleaner
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Rinse with low-pressure water from the inside out
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Let it dry completely before reinstalling
(Never use compressed air or harsh chemicals)
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Inspect clamps and connections
Every few thousand miles, pop the hood and check that all the clamps are tight and the pipe is secure. A loose fitting can let unfiltered air into the engine or trigger a check engine light. -
Monitor your MAF sensor
If your vehicle uses a Mass Air Flow sensor, make sure it stays clean and properly connected. Any issues here can affect air/fuel ratios and engine performance. If needed, use a sensor-safe cleaner to gently remove buildup. -
Watch for Check Engine lights
While rare, an improperly installed intake or loose connection can trip the ECU. If you see a warning light, double-check the install or reset the sensor using an OBD2 tool.
Following these steps helps protect your engine, maintain horsepower gains, and extend the life of your system.
Conclusion: What's Your Take on Cold Air Intakes?
There’s no doubt that a cold air intake system delivers serious value for the money—more horsepower, better throttle response, improved sound, and a cleaner engine. It’s one of the most rewarding mods you can do without breaking the bank or diving too deep under the hood.
But here’s what we’d love to know:
Have you installed a cold air intake on your ride?What gains did you notice? Did it change the way your car feels on the road?Or are you still thinking about making the upgrade?
FAQ
Q1: Will a cold air intake actually increase horsepower?
Yes—SPELAB cold air intake systems have been tested to deliver 5–10% more horsepower, depending on the vehicle. That typically means a gain of 5 to 15 HP you can feel, especially on models like the 2016 Dodge Charger 5.7L HEMI or other high-output engines.
Q2: Will it make my engine louder?
Definitely—and in a good way. One of the first things you’ll notice is a deeper, sportier intake sound, especially during acceleration. It’s not as loud or droning as a full exhaust system, but enough to let you know your engine is breathing better.
Q3: Do I need a tune after installing a cold air intake?
For most vehicles, no tuning is required. SPELAB systems are designed to work seamlessly with factory ECUs. However, if you’re running additional upgrades—like a cat-back exhaust or turbo kit—a tune can help maximize your performance gains.
Q4: Will this void my factory warranty?
Generally, no. As long as the intake system is installed correctly and doesn’t cause any damage, it won’t void your factory warranty. That said, we recommend checking your vehicle’s warranty terms or speaking with your dealer if you’re unsure.
Q5: Can a cold air intake damage my engine?
Not when it’s properly installed and maintained. SPELAB’s high-efficiency cone filters capture up to 95% of airborne contaminants, offering better filtration than most stock paper filters. It’s actually one of the safest mods you can do.
Q6: Will it fit my vehicle?
SPELAB offers vehicle-specific kits designed to fit models like the 2020 Ford F-150 EcoBoost and the 2012 Chevy Silverado 1500 4.8L V8, among others. You can check fitment directly on our website or contact our support team for help choosing the right kit.
