Sometimes buying a car with factory parts and features is not enough. People use aftermarket parts to modify their vehicles to either customise the outlook or upgrade the performance. Installing aftermarket air intakes is one such modification that improves the overall performance of the car.
When installing aftermarket air intakes, familiarize yourself with the UAE modification laws. Most engine modifications are not allowed and you will need permission or get your car tested after modification. Normally air intakes can take a hard pass but loud engine noise can result in a fine.
Check up with the RTA in Dubai or enlist professional help before modification to keep up with government rules and regulation.
Let’s take a look at how an aftermarket air intake works and increases the engine efficiency.
Cold Air Intake System
In a car combustion engine, oxygen in air and fuel for injector are prime components that cause combustion and generate power. Of course, bigger combustion, you will need more oxygen, this is where installing aftermarket air intakes comes into play.
Also known as cold air intake (CAI), the system allows more cold air to flow through the engine for better combustion. The key here is the cold air, as it is denser and has more oxygen.
The cold air intake system is installed in a way to provide more surface area and exposure for air to flow into the engine manifold. Heat shields around the air intake prevent the contact with hot air from the engine.
In short, by installing aftermarket air intakes, the engine sucks in more cold air for bigger and better air-fuel combustion, resulting in more horsepower.
Tuning Car for aftermarket air intake
Normally, installing aftermarket air intakes doesn’t require tuning as the car’s electronic control unit (ECU) is able to detect air flow input through its sensors. If there is an increase in airflow, the ECU will adjust for more fuel injection to create bigger combustion.
ECU does have a limit as manufacturers need to abide by government regulation in terms of car safety and emission. Tuning to change ECU values for better air fuel ratio can result in more power as optimized cold air intakes will function with full efficiency.
Unfortunately, tuning for air intake comes at a cost and is usually not worth it.
Benefits of Installing Aftermarket Air Intakes
To find out if it is worth it to install aftermarket air intakes, let’s look at some of the benefits:
Increased Horsepower
The prime benefit of installing aftermarket cold air intakes is the increased engine output. As compared to hot air, cold air allows more efficient combustion due to more oxygen. You can expect to get around 5 to 10 hp boost.
More Acceleration
One of the noticeable changes you get to enjoy is quicker acceleration when you press the accelerator pedal. As compared to warm air from stock settings, cold air from air intakes will result in faster engine response and shorter ignition delay.
Better Fuel Economy
The deficiency of oxygen during engine combustion can increase fuel consumption. With the aftermarket intakes, more oxygen flow gives optimum fuel ratio. This results in better fuel economy and mileage. Hence, you will be saving some money.
Durable Air Filters
Stock intakes are normally equipped with disposable paper air filters that need to be replaced after every 15,000 to 20,000 km. In case of the UAE, extreme weather elements and dust may require more frequent replacement of clogged air filters.
The aftermarket air intake filters are more durable and reusable. Instead of replacing the clogged filter, you can just clean them out yourself. This removes the hassle of requiring professional help. Additionally, the reusable air filters last longer with a lifespan ranging from 5 to 10 years. Hence you will be saving trips and costs to the mechanic for regular air filter replacement.
Improved Exhaust Sound
The air intake does result in louder sound as more you will hear the sound of air rushing through the intake. Hence, the noise from exhaust remains the same and additional noise is from the intake.
Manufacturers usually go to great lengths to muffle such sounds. Hence, make sure the change in engine sound abides by the government regulations in the UAE.
Drawbacks of Aftermarket Air Intakes
Modifications like installing aftermarket air intakes also come with its own set of drawbacks. For instance, the increased air flow due to intake can result in increased exposure of air filters to debris, dust and contaminants. This may increase the chances of contamination in the engine and oil, resulting in more component wear.
Hydro locking is always a concern when moisture enters the engine and causes the connecting rod to bend or break, leading to catastrophic failure. Even a splash of water on the road is enough for the filter to get soaked and introduce water.
However, by using a high quality air filter and installing a hydro-shield, you can reduce the risk of damage to the engine.
When planning to modify cars like installing cold air intakes, it is ideal to modify a used car rather than a new one to keep its factory value. Explore our collection of used cars for sale in the UAE to modify and accessorize according to your needs. Just be sure to keep the modifications in line with government laws.
If you plan to accessories or modify your car, explore our listings for new and used auto accessories & parts for sale in the UAE for some affordable deals.” Moreover, car owners can go for special vehicle order – eliminating the need of aftermarket parts as a whole.
Stay tuned to our auto blogs for more information on car parts, market trends, repairs and auto-technology.
Related Posts
