mrwglo

I tried a search and didn't come up with anything, so I apologize in advance for my newb-ness.

What's the difference in a CAI vs a K&N filter? I have no desire to do a fuel tune as I want to continue to run 87 octane. Should I just go with the K&N or is there something else I should do/consider? Thanks!

v8pilot

What you need to understand is CAI means Cold Air Intake
Its the design, what they call aftermarket air intake boxes.
K&N is a good one. Their is alot more designs aswell
their is many different brands you need to research,
C&L and JLTare some of thepopular ones
I choose to go with JLT 2 intake witha tune
according to dyno sheets its the one the attracts the most power for a reasonable price
But since you said you need an intake that wont throw a check engine light and doesnt need a tune. you need to go with K&N intake.
But i have to let you know its worth the extra 300$ just to get a tune aswell.


Congrats on the car and welcome to your new money pit.

okbfd

You get higher air flow at a lower temp with the CAI. The tuner improves many issues and lets you customize your performance. You don't have tochange your octane setting to realize performance gains.

Nuke

Are you talking about a K&N drop-in filter vs a CAI? The drop-ins aren't worth much, if anything, in performance. As far as filtering, the stock paper filter does just fine.

If you get a CAI & tune, you can run 87 octane. The 87 octane custom tune is hands-down superior to your 87 stock tune in performance.

mrwglo

Thanks guys. Yes, I know what a CAI is and yes I was speaking of a drop in filter. (I did say filter not K&N CAI)

Will I realize gains around 20-25hp with staying on the stock 87 tune? What's so differentabout the 87 aftermarket tune?

howarmat

you wont get any gains on the stock tune and drop in filter......gains will come if you get a CAI AND a tune

Mishri

well.. i've heard that if you go with the K&N CAI kit that doesn't require a retune it does add something like 8-10rwhp..

but the tune by itself, even w/o the benefit of the CAI system from a rupatable tuner is worthwhile..

And I agree, the drop in K&N air filter likely does little to nothing (You shouldn't notice a difference).

My was fun to drive when I first got it.. then I got my Steeda + Brenspeed 87 octane tune was a huge difference.. even more fun.. I switched up to 91 octane tune but I honestly can't tell a difference.. i Might drop it back down to the 87 just to save some gas money..