Air that is colder has larger molecules and a higher concentration of oxygen. It also “eats” oxygen - which is why a fire will grow as more oxygen is available and shrinks or dies when oxygen is removed. If you recall, heat causes air molecules to shrink. Let’s head back to chemistry class for a second. Why is Colder Air Important for Horsepower? The cold air intake moves the filter location towards the front of the car to remove heat for cooler air flow into the throttle body. The stock filter is typically housed near the engine compartment- specifically on top of the cylinder intake manifold. The filter is made from a cotton-like material that itself is a conductor of heat.
![k and n intake system k and n intake system](https://images.91wheels.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Performance-Cold-Air-Intake-System-2021.jpg)
A cold air intake is a bolt-on aftermarket replacement for the stock air intake system, which is designed to draw air from the outside, flow through an air filter, and into the throttle body of a fuel-injected engine to mix with gasoline or diesel fuel. If you’re reading this article, it’s likely you’re trying to learn more about cold air intakes before making the investment. Noted below are some things to ask yourself before you decide to purchase a cold air intake, and tips for choosing one. While they are rather simple to install, you should consider a few important items before making the investment.
![k and n intake system k and n intake system](https://aw1.imgix.net/3/k-n/69-8758TS_Eng2.jpg)
These performance air intakes are fairly inexpensive and are usually designed to fit specific engine designs, making it easy to find and choose a cold air intake for your car. These power-adders are designed by aftermarket manufacturers and designed to replicate a few of the benefits of nitrous oxide without the chemical addition.
![k and n intake system k and n intake system](https://res.cloudinary.com/knfilters-com/c_lpad,f_auto,h_300,w_300/media/catalog/product/7/7/77-3087KP_2.jpg)
K and n intake system upgrade#
Adding a cold air intake system is a common aftermarket upgrade for many sport car enthusiasts in North America.