More horsepower and better fuel economy? Yes, please! A cold air intake is one of the easiest ways to boost your 3.5L EcoBoost’s performance. These aftermarket parts replace your factory airbox and filter with a less restrictive system, allowing your engine to breathe easier. Choosing the right one can be tricky, so I’ve put together a list of some top contenders to help you decide.
Quick Summary: Top Cold Air Intakes for 3.5L EcoBoost
- S&B Filters 75-5070 Cold Air Intake: Best overall, great filtration, easy install.
- K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: Well-known brand, noticeable performance gains.
- AFE Power Magnum FORCE: Aggressive sound, improved airflow.
- Airaid 450-325 Modular Intake System: Customizable, good value for the money.
- Roush Performance Cold Air Intake Kit: Designed for Roush vehicles, quality construction.
Top 5 Best Cold Air Intake 3.5 Ecoboost Reviews
1. S&B Filters 75-5070 Cold Air Intake
The S&B Filters 75-5070 is a popular choice for 3.5L EcoBoost owners, and for good reason. This intake offers a great balance of performance, filtration, and ease of installation. It’s a complete kit that replaces your factory airbox with a high-flow filter and intake tube, resulting in improved airflow and horsepower.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent filtration to protect your engine.
- ✅ Noticeable horsepower and torque gains.
- ✅ Relatively easy to install with clear instructions.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be slightly more expensive than some other options.
- ❌ Some users report a slight increase in engine noise.
- ❌ The filter might require more frequent cleaning in dusty environments.
Verdict: The S&B Filters 75-5070 is a top-notch cold air intake that provides a solid performance boost without sacrificing engine protection. It’s a great all-around choice for most 3.5L EcoBoost owners.
2. K&N Cold Air Intake Kit
K&N is a household name in the performance filter world, and their cold air intake kit for the 3.5L EcoBoost lives up to the reputation. It’s designed to dramatically reduce intake restriction, allowing your engine to breathe easier and produce more power. Plus, the washable and reusable air filter means you won’t have to buy replacements.
Pros:
- ✅ Well-known and trusted brand.
- ✅ Dyno-proven horsepower gains.
- ✅ Washable and reusable air filter.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricier than some alternatives.
- ❌ Some users find the installation instructions unclear.
- ❌ Oiling the filter can be messy if you’re not careful.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a reliable and proven performance upgrade, the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit is a solid choice. It’s a bit more of an investment, but the reusable filter and reputable brand make it worthwhile for many.
3. AFE Power Magnum FORCE
The AFE Power Magnum FORCE cold air intake is designed for maximum airflow and an aggressive sound. It features a large-diameter intake tube and a high-flow air filter to deliver noticeable performance gains. If you want your EcoBoost to sound as good as it performs, this is an intake to consider.
Pros:
- ✅ Aggressive intake sound.
- ✅ Improved throttle response.
- ✅ High-quality construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Installation can be more challenging compared to other intakes.
- ❌ Louder sound might not be for everyone.
- ❌ Can be one of the more expensive options.
Verdict: The AFE Power Magnum FORCE is a great option if you’re looking for a combination of performance and sound. It’s ideal for those who want a more aggressive driving experience and don’t mind a slightly more involved installation process.
4. Airaid 450-325 Modular Intake System
The Airaid 450-325 Modular Intake System offers a customizable approach to improving your 3.5L EcoBoost’s airflow. This system allows you to adjust the intake tube length and filter placement to fine-tune performance. It’s a good middle-ground option, balancing cost and effectiveness.
Pros:
- ✅ Customizable design for optimal performance.
- ✅ Good value for the money.
- ✅ Improved fuel economy reported by some users.
Cons:
- ❌ Customization requires some knowledge and experimentation.
- ❌ Might not offer the same peak horsepower gains as other intakes.
- ❌ Filter cleaning can be a bit involved due to the design.
Verdict: The Airaid 450-325 is a solid choice for those who like to tinker and want a customizable intake system without breaking the bank. It offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
5. Roush Performance Cold Air Intake Kit
Specifically designed for Roush vehicles (but compatible with other 3.5L EcoBoost models), the Roush Performance Cold Air Intake Kit offers quality construction and improved airflow. Roush is known for its performance engineering, so you can expect a well-designed and durable product.
Pros:
- ✅ Designed by a reputable performance company.
- ✅ Durable construction and high-quality materials.
- ✅ Noticeable improvement in throttle response.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be more expensive than some other options.
- ❌ May require minor modifications for non-Roush vehicles.
- ❌ The filter might require more frequent cleaning in dirty environments.
Verdict: If you own a Roush vehicle or simply want a high-quality intake from a trusted brand, the Roush Performance Cold Air Intake Kit is an excellent choice. Just be aware that it might require some adjustments for non-Roush applications.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right cold air intake for your 3.5L EcoBoost involves considering a few key factors. Here’s a breakdown to help you make the best decision:
- Filtration: A good air filter is crucial to protect your engine from dirt and debris. Look for intakes with high-quality filters that offer excellent filtration efficiency.
- Airflow: The primary purpose of a cold air intake is to improve airflow. Consider intakes with larger diameter tubes and less restrictive filters for optimal performance.
- Material: Intakes are typically made from plastic, aluminum, or carbon fiber. Aluminum and carbon fiber are more durable but also more expensive.
- Installation: Assess your mechanical skills and choose an intake that you can confidently install yourself. Some intakes are easier to install than others. Read reviews and watch installation videos to get a better understanding.
- Sound: Cold air intakes can change the sound of your engine. Some intakes produce a more aggressive sound, while others are relatively quiet. Consider your personal preference when making your choice. I personally like a little extra growl!
- Price: Cold air intakes range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand. Set a budget and compare different options within your price range.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands that have a proven track record of producing high-quality intakes. This ensures you’re getting a product that will perform well and last.
FAQs
Q: Will a cold air intake void my warranty?
A: It depends. A cold air intake could void your warranty if it’s proven to be the direct cause of a mechanical failure. However, many dealerships are understanding about aftermarket modifications. It’s always best to check with your dealer before installing any aftermarket parts.
Q: How much horsepower will a cold air intake add?
A: Horsepower gains vary depending on the intake and your specific vehicle. Most cold air intakes for the 3.5L EcoBoost claim to add between 10 and 20 horsepower. Keep in mind that these are often peak gains, and you might not feel a significant difference in everyday driving.
Q: Do I need to tune my ECU after installing a cold air intake?
A: In most cases, a tune is not required. However, some intakes may benefit from a tune to optimize performance and fuel economy. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific intake.
Q: How often should I clean my air filter?
A: Cleaning frequency depends on your driving conditions. If you frequently drive in dusty environments, you’ll need to clean your filter more often. A good rule of thumb is to inspect your filter every 10,000 to 15,000 miles and clean it as needed.
Conclusion
A cold air intake is a worthwhile upgrade for your 3.5L EcoBoost if you’re looking to improve performance and add a little more excitement to your driving experience. Consider your budget, desired performance gains, and installation skill level when making your choice. Any of the intakes on this list would be a solid addition to your truck or SUV!
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