Does your F-150 or Ranger with the 3.5 EcoBoost engine feel like it could use a little more pep? You’ve probably heard about cold air intakes. They promise better sound, more power, and improved fuel economy. But with so many brands and styles out there, it’s tough to know which one is truly the best for your truck.
Choosing the right cold air intake for your 3.5 EcoBoost can be a confusing journey. You want to upgrade your truck, but you also don’t want to waste money on something that won’t make a difference, or worse, cause problems. We get it. It’s a common frustration for truck owners looking to unlock the full potential of their powerful engines.
In this post, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about cold air intakes specifically for the 3.5 EcoBoost. We’ll explore what makes them work, the key features to look for, and even discuss some popular options. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to pick the perfect cold air intake to give your truck the performance boost it deserves.
Our Top 5 Cold Air Intake 3.5 Ecoboost Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cold Air Intake 3.5 Ecoboost Detailed Reviews
1. K&N Cold Air Intake System: High-Flow Air Filter
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to give your 2017-2024 Ford Expedition, F-150, F-150 Raptor, or Lincoln Navigator a serious boost? The K&N Cold Air Intake System (63-2599) is designed to do just that. It’s a high-flow system that lets your engine breathe better, leading to more power and a cooler engine. It’s made in the USA and comes with a lifetime warranty.
What We Like:
- Guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque.
- Dyno-tested results are included, so you know it works.
- Gives your engine a more aggressive, growling sound when you accelerate.
- Improves towing performance with better acceleration and uphill power.
- Protect your engine and your vehicle’s warranty with this trusted brand.
- The reusable air filter lasts for 100,000 miles before needing a clean.
- Easy to install in about an hour with basic tools.
- Proudly made in the USA with great customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the sound is improved, some might find the increased engine noise noticeable during regular driving.
This K&N Cold Air Intake System offers a noticeable upgrade in performance and sound for your Ford or Lincoln truck or SUV. It’s a smart investment for anyone looking to get more out of their vehicle.
2. K&N Cold Air Intake System: High-Flow Air Filter
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to give your Ford Expedition, F150, or F150 Raptor a serious boost? The K&N Cold Air Intake System (77-2617KC) is designed to unlock your engine’s hidden power. This system replaces your stock air intake with a smoother, less restrictive path for air to enter your engine.
What We Like:
- Guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque, proven by dyno testing.
- Enjoy a more aggressive engine growl during acceleration.
- Improves towing performance and uphill power by boosting throttle response.
- K&N’s high-flow, reusable air filter cleans easily and lasts for 100,000 miles under normal driving.
- Easy installation, usually under an hour with basic tools.
- Made in the USA with a No-Hassle Lifetime Limited Warranty for peace of mind.
- Won’t void your vehicle’s manufacturer warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The improved engine sound might be too loud for some drivers.
This K&N Cold Air Intake System is a fantastic upgrade for drivers seeking more power and better performance. It’s a smart investment for your Ford truck.
3. Roush Cold Air Intake Kit 2.7L/3.5L Eco Boost F-150 2018-2019/F-150 Raptor 2017-2019
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to give your F-150 or Raptor a serious upgrade? The Roush Cold Air Intake Kit for the 2.7L/3.5L EcoBoost engines (2018-2019 F-150 and 2017-2019 F-150 Raptor) is designed to make your truck perform better and sound tougher. It’s made specifically for your vehicle, meaning a perfect fit and maximum gains. Get ready for a more responsive and powerful driving experience.
What We Like:
- Boosts your truck’s power and makes it sound more aggressive.
- Makes your engine react faster when you press the gas pedal.
- Filters air better than the regular air box, keeping your engine clean.
- Designed precisely for your specific F-150 or Raptor model for easy installation and best results.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some basic mechanical knowledge, though it’s straightforward.
- The improved sound, while desirable for many, might be too loud for some drivers.
This Roush Cold Air Intake is a fantastic way to unlock your truck’s hidden potential. You’ll notice the difference in performance and feel every time you hit the gas.
4. K&N Cold Air Intake System: High-Flow Air Filter
Rating: 9.5/10
Ready to give your 2011-2014 Ford F-150 a power boost? The K&N Cold Air Intake System (57-2583) is designed to do just that. It replaces your truck’s factory air intake with a high-flow system that helps your engine breathe better. This means more cool, oxygen-rich air gets into your engine, which can lead to better performance, especially when you’re towing or driving on the highway.
What We Like:
- Guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque for better acceleration.
- Dyno-tested results are included, so you know it works.
- You’ll hear a more aggressive engine growl when you step on the gas.
- Improves towing performance by making your truck more responsive.
- K&N offers a No-Hassle Lifetime Limited Warranty for peace of mind.
- The high-flow, reusable air filter can last for up to 100,000 miles before needing a clean.
- It’s easy to install, usually taking less than an hour with basic tools.
- Proudly made in the USA with US-based customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it improves sound, some drivers might prefer a quieter system.
If you’re looking to unlock more power and get a better sound from your F-150, this K&N Cold Air Intake System is a solid choice. It’s built to last and backed by a great warranty.
5. Volant Closed Box Cold Air Intake Kit 2017-2018 Ford F150 & Raptor 3.5L Ecoboost
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your 2017-2018 Ford F150 or Raptor with the Volant Closed Box Cold Air Intake Kit. This kit is designed to give your 3.5L EcoBoost engine more power and better fuel efficiency. It features a special filter that captures more dirt and lets more air in. The parts are made to last and are easy to install.
What We Like:
- The Ultra-Web nanofiber filter traps tiny dirt particles on its surface. This means it doesn’t get clogged up easily and lets more air flow to your engine.
- This improved airflow can lead to a noticeable increase in your truck’s horsepower and torque.
- The kit includes premium hardware, meaning all the nuts, bolts, and clamps are high quality. They resist rust and ensure a secure fit.
- Silicone connectors are used throughout the system. These are flexible and durable, preventing air leaks and ensuring a tight seal.
- The closed box design helps to keep the air intake cooler. Cooler air is denser, which helps your engine perform better.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the filter is very effective, its specific cleaning and maintenance requirements might be more involved than a standard paper filter.
- The initial cost of the kit might be higher than simpler, open-element air intake systems.
This Volant Cold Air Intake Kit offers a significant upgrade for your F150 or Raptor. It’s a smart investment for drivers seeking enhanced performance and engine protection.
Upgrade Your F-150’s Roar: A Cold Air Intake Buying Guide for the 3.5L EcoBoost
So, you want to give your Ford F-150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine a little more pep and a better sound? A cold air intake is a popular way to do it! This guide will help you pick the right one.
What is a Cold Air Intake?
Think of your engine like a person who needs to breathe. A cold air intake helps your engine breathe in cooler, denser air. Cooler air has more oxygen. More oxygen means your engine can burn fuel better. This can lead to more power and better gas mileage. It can also give your truck a sportier engine sound.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a cold air intake for your 3.5L EcoBoost, keep these things in mind:
- Airflow Design: Look for intakes with smooth, larger diameter tubing. This lets air move more freely. Less restriction means more power.
- Filter Type: Most kits use either a dry or oiled filter.
- Dry filters: These are easier to maintain. You just tap them clean or use compressed air. They don’t need oiling.
- Oiled filters: These can capture smaller particles. However, they need to be cleaned and re-oiled regularly. Make sure you get the right oil.
- Heat Shielding: A good heat shield is important. It stops hot air from the engine bay from getting into your intake. This keeps the air cool and dense.
- Ease of Installation: Some kits are easier to install than others. Check reviews to see if people found it straightforward.
- Sound: Cold air intakes change your truck’s sound. Some make it louder and more aggressive. Others are more subtle. Think about what you prefer.
Important Materials
The materials used in a cold air intake affect its performance and how long it lasts.
- Tubing: Most good kits use high-quality plastic or aluminum for the tubing. Plastic is lighter and doesn’t get as hot. Aluminum can be more durable.
- Filter: The filter material is usually cotton gauze (for oiled filters) or synthetic material (for dry filters). Both can be effective if designed well.
- Heat Shield: Metal, like aluminum, is often used for heat shields. It helps block engine heat effectively.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a cold air intake work better or worse.
- Good Quality:
- Proper Fitment: A kit designed specifically for your 3.5L EcoBoost F-150 will fit best. This ensures no air leaks.
- Smooth Airflow: The shape of the tubing and filter housing matters. Smooth curves help air flow without turbulence.
- Effective Heat Shielding: A well-designed shield keeps the air intake temperature down.
- Lower Quality:
- Poor Fitment: If the kit doesn’t fit perfectly, you can have air leaks. This hurts performance.
- Restrictive Design: If the tubing is too small or has sharp bends, it can limit airflow.
- Lack of Heat Shielding: Hot engine air entering the intake reduces power.
User Experience and Use Cases
People install cold air intakes for different reasons.
- Daily Driving: Many drivers notice a slight improvement in throttle response. The engine might feel a little more eager. The sound can also make daily driving more enjoyable.
- Towing and Hauling: For those who tow or carry heavy loads, the extra power can be helpful. It can make acceleration feel stronger.
- Performance Enthusiasts: If you’re looking for noticeable power gains, a cold air intake is a good start. It works well with other engine modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will a cold air intake void my F-150’s warranty?
A: Generally, installing a cold air intake should not void your warranty. However, if the intake causes a problem that needs warranty repair, the dealer might blame the aftermarket part. It’s always a good idea to keep your original parts just in case.
Q: How much horsepower will I gain?
A: You can expect a modest gain, typically around 5-15 horsepower. The biggest improvements are usually in throttle response and torque. Gains vary depending on the specific kit and your truck.
Q: Will it improve my gas mileage?
A: Some people report slightly better gas mileage. This happens if the engine burns fuel more efficiently. However, if you enjoy the new sound and use the extra power, your mileage might not improve.
Q: Do I need a tune for a cold air intake?
A: For most cold air intakes on the 3.5L EcoBoost, a tune is not strictly required. However, a tune can help you get the most out of the new intake and other modifications.
Q: How often do I need to clean the filter?
A: This depends on the filter type and how dusty your driving environment is. Oiled filters usually need cleaning every 15,000-30,000 miles. Dry filters might last longer between cleanings.
Q: What is the difference between a dry filter and an oiled filter?
A: Dry filters are easier to maintain; you just clean them. Oiled filters can trap smaller particles but require cleaning and re-oiling with a special kit.
Q: Can I install it myself?
A: Yes, most cold air intake kits are designed for DIY installation. They usually come with clear instructions. If you’re not comfortable working on your truck, a mechanic can install it.
Q: Will it make my F-150 sound better?
A: Yes, cold air intakes often give your 3.5L EcoBoost a deeper, more aggressive engine sound, especially under acceleration.
Q: What is the best brand for a 3.5L EcoBoost cold air intake?
A: Popular brands known for quality include K&N, Airaid, Spectre, and Roush. Research specific kits for your F-150 model.
Q: Does the color of the intake matter?
A: No, the color of the intake tubing or filter is purely cosmetic. It does not affect performance.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Carlos Gadd, and I am the creator of AirPurityGuide.com.. With a passion for footwear, I share my experiences, insights, and expertise about shoes. Through my blog, I aim to guide readers in making informed decisions, finding the perfect pair, and enhancing their footwear knowledge. Join me on this journey to explore everything about shoes!