RS Series - Cold Air Intake - 90-93 Acura Integra

$55.99

A cold air intake (CAI) is a modification made to a vehicle's engine that improves the flow of air into the combustion chamber, resulting in potential performance gains. The primary purpose of a cold air intake is to increase the amount of cool air entering the engine, hence the term "cold air".

The stock air intake system in a car typically consists of a plastic airbox, an air filter, and a series of intake tubes that connect the airbox to the engine. The airbox is designed to reduce engine noise and filter out contaminants from the incoming air. However, it can also restrict the flow of air, which can limit engine performance.

A cold air intake system replaces the stock airbox and intake tubes with larger-diameter components, often made of aluminum or heat-resistant plastic. The most significant modification is usually the placement of the air filter in a location that allows it to draw in cooler air from outside the engine bay. This is typically achieved by relocating the filter to a spot with better access to ambient air, such as the front grille or fender well.

By drawing in cooler air from outside the engine bay, a cold air intake can provide several potential benefits:

1. Increased air flow: The larger-diameter intake tubes and improved filter design reduce restrictions and allow a greater volume of air to enter the engine. This increased airflow can enhance engine performance, particularly at higher RPMs.

2. Improved combustion: Cooler air is denser than warm air, which means it contains more oxygen molecules per unit volume. A higher oxygen content in the combustion chamber leads to more efficient fuel combustion and potentially increased power output.

3. Enhanced throttle response: With improved airflow, the engine can respond more quickly to throttle inputs, resulting in improved acceleration and throttle response.

4. Engine sound enhancement: Cold air intakes often produce a more aggressive engine sound due to the altered intake system design and the removal of the stock airbox, which can be desirable for some car enthusiasts.