Best Cold Air Intake for Jeep: Top Picks for Improved Performance

Regarding Jeeps, a cold air intake can be a great way to enhance off-road performance. The best cold air intake for Jeep will depend on the specific model and year of the vehicle, as well as the intended use. Some factors to consider when choosing a cold air intake include the material, filtration system, and ease of installation.

One critical thing to pay attention to when purchasing a cold air intake for a Jeep is the compatibility with the vehicle’s engine. It is essential to ensure that the cold air intake is designed specifically for the make and model of the Jeep’s engine. Additionally, it is crucial to consider the driving the Jeep will be used for, as some cold air intakes may be better suited for off-road use, while others may be more appropriate for street driving.

We researched and tested several options to help Jeep owners find their vehicles’ best cold air intake. Our goal was to identify the cold air intakes that provided the most significant performance gains while being easy to install and compatible with a wide range of Jeep models.

Best Cold Air Intakes for Jeep

A cold air intake system is a great place to start if you want to boost your Jeep’s performance. These systems replace your Jeep’s factory air intake with a more efficient and free-flowing system that allows for increased airflow and better engine performance. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best cold air intakes for Jeep on the market based on factors such as performance, durability, and ease of installation. Whether you’re a serious off-roader or just looking to add extra power to your daily driver, one of these cold air intakes will surely fit your needs.

Rough Country Cold Air Intake for 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler JK | 3.6L – 10550A

Suppose you’re looking for an easy way to gain increased horsepower and throttle response while protecting your engine from harmful particles and debris. In that case, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is a great option.

Pros

• Circulates cooler air, which is denser, and increases power by bringing more oxygen into the combustion chamber.
• Easy at-home installation and support provided by RC.
• Backed by Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.

Cons

• Not for sale in California or other states adopting carb regulations.
• Drilling required.
• 3.6L engine only.

The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow Rough Country’s Cold Air Intake System to provide far better airflow than the factory air filter enclosed in a box. Each unit includes a premium, reusable air filter that’s easy to clean for a long life of great performance.

This easy-to-install device goes on in a snap for an instant increase in performance. However, it’s important to note that this product is not for sale in California or other states adopting carb regulations. Additionally, drilling is required for installation and is only compatible with 3.6L engines.

Overall, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is an excellent investment for Jeep owners who want to improve their vehicle’s performance and protect their engines from harmful particles and debris.

Rough Country Cold Air Intake for 2007-2011 Jeep Wrangler JK | 3.8L – 10554

If you’re looking for a cold air intake for your Jeep, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake is worth considering. It provides increased horsepower and throttle response while protecting your engine from harmful particles and debris.

Pros

• Gain increased horsepower and throttle response.
• Circulates cooler air, which is denser, and produces an increase in power by bringing more oxygen into the combustion chamber.
• Easy at-home installation and support provided by RC

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the supplied clamps don’t tighten enough, but they are easy enough to replace
• The bracket under the piping that attaches to the box doesn’t align correctly.
• The grommet and clamps aren’t the right size, so you may need to spend extra money to get the right size.

The cylindrical design and large diameter tube of the Rough Country Cold Air Intake provide far better airflow than the factory air filter enclosed in a box. Each unit includes a premium, reusable air filter that’s easy to clean for a long life of great performance. This easy-to-install device goes on in a snap for an instant increase in performance.

While some customers have reported issues with the supplied clamps and bracket alignment, most have found the installation process straightforward. Once installed, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake provides a noticeable increase in horsepower and throttle response.

Overall, suppose you’re looking for a cold air intake for your Jeep that is easy to install and provides a noticeable increase in performance. In that case, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake is worth considering.

Rough Country Cold Air Intake for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ | 6CYL/4.0L – 10553

If you want to increase horsepower and throttle response while protecting your engine, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is a great choice.

Pros

• The system circulates cooler air, which is denser, and produces an increase in power by bringing more oxygen into the combustion chamber.
• The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow far better airflow than the factory air filter enclosed in a box.
• The unit includes a premium, reusable air filter that’s easy to clean for a long life of excellent performance.

Cons

• Some users had difficulty installing the system and found the directions confusing.
• The rubber piece on the throttle body is hard to get on the other air intake piece.
• It is not for sale in California or other states adopting CARB regulations.

The Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is a great way to improve your Jeep’s performance. The system moves the air filter away from the engine compartment so cooler air can be circulated into the engine. Cooler air is denser and brings more oxygen into the combustion chamber to help your vehicle perform at its greatest potential. The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow far better airflow than the factory air filter enclosed in a box. Each unit includes a premium, reusable air filter that’s easy to clean for a long life of excellent performance.

While some users found the installation confusing, others found it easy. The rubber piece on the throttle body is hard to get on the other part of the air intake, but overall, the system is worth the money. However, it is not for sale in California or other states adopting CARB regulations.

The Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is a great choice to improve your Jeep’s performance.

Rough Country Cold Air Intake for 18-23 Jeep Wrangler JL/Gladiator| 3.6L – 10479

Suppose you’re looking for an easy-to-install cold air intake system that will provide increased horsepower and throttle response. Consider the Rough Country Cold Air Intake for Jeep Wrangler JL/Gladiator in that case.

Pros

• The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow for better airflow and increased power.
• The system circulates denser, cooler air and produces more oxygen in the combustion chamber.
• The premium, reusable air filter is easy to clean and provides long-lasting performance.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the provided clamps are not very effective and need to be replaced.
• The grommet for the sensor installation is poorly made and sized incorrectly.
• The intake tube interferes with the crankcase vent tube and has to be rerouted.

The Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is easy to install and provides an instant increase in performance. The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow for better airflow and increased power. The system circulates cooler air, which is denser and produces more oxygen in the combustion chamber. The premium, reusable air filter is easy to clean and provides long-lasting performance.

However, some users have reported that the provided clamps are ineffective and need replacement. The grommet for the sensor installation is poorly made and sized incorrectly. The intake tube interferes with the crankcase vent tube and has to be rerouted.

Overall, suppose you’re looking for an affordable and effective cold air intake system for your Jeep Wrangler JL/Gladiator. In that case, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake might be an excellent option to consider. It is backed by Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty, and the support provided by the company makes the installation process easy, even for those not very experienced with car modifications.

Rough Country Cold Air Intake w/Pre-Filter

If you’re looking for a cold air intake that provides increased horsepower and throttle response while protecting your engine from harmful particles and debris, then the Rough Country Cold Air Intake w/Pre-Filter is a solid choice.

Pros

• Gain increased horsepower and throttle response.
• Circulates cooler air, which is denser, and produces an increase in power by bringing more oxygen into the combustion chamber.
• Premium, reusable air filter

Cons

• Metal charge pipe is louder than expected
• Some users reported difficulty with the installation
• Doesn’t fit exceptionally well

The Rough Country Cold Air Intake w/Pre-Filter is an easy-to-install device that can provide an instant increase in performance. The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow this intake system to give far better airflow than the factory air filter enclosed in a box. Each unit includes a premium, reusable air filter that’s easy to clean for a long life of great performance.

One of the benefits of this cold air intake is that it moves the air filter away from the engine compartment, allowing cooler air to be circulated into the engine for an increase in power. Cooler air is denser and brings more oxygen into the combustion chamber to help your vehicle perform at its greatest potential.

However, some users have reported that the metal charge pipe is louder than expected, and installation difficulties have occurred. Additionally, the intake doesn’t fit exceptionally well, which could concern some users.

Overall, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake w/Pre-Filter is a solid choice for those looking to increase their vehicle’s horsepower and throttle response while protecting their engine from harmful particles and debris. And with Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty, you can rest assured that you’re making an intelligent investment.

Rough Country Cold Air Intake for 1997-2002 Jeep Wrangler TJ | 4CYL/2.5L – 10548

If you’re looking for a cold air intake for your Jeep Wrangler TJ, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is a solid choice to provide increased horsepower and throttle response while protecting your engine from harmful particles and debris.

Pros

• The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow far better airflow than the factory air filter enclosed in a box.
• The system circulates cooler air, which is denser, and produces an increase in power by bringing more oxygen into the combustion chamber.
• The included premium, reusable air filter is easy to clean for a long life of great performance.

Cons

• The installation process can be tricky for those who are not mechanically inclined.
• The rubber bushing part may not work as expected.
• The package may arrive damaged, and some parts may be missing.

The Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is easy to install and can provide an instant increase in performance. The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow for far better airflow than the factory air filter enclosed in a box, which can help your vehicle perform at its greatest potential. The system circulates cooler air, which is denser, and produces an increase in power by bringing more oxygen into the combustion chamber. The included premium, reusable air filter is easy to clean for a long life of excellent performance.

However, the installation process can be tricky for those who are not mechanically inclined. Additionally, the rubber bushing part may not work as expected. Some customers have reported that the package arrived damaged and some parts were missing, which can be frustrating.

Overall, suppose you’re looking for a cold air intake system to provide increased horsepower and throttle response while protecting your engine from harmful particles and debris. The Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is worth considering in that case.

OBUYTO Cold Air Intake Kit

If you want to improve your Jeep’s performance and add some attractive intake noise, the OBUYTO Cold Air Intake Kit is worth considering.

Pros

• The kit is compatible with many Jeep models, making it a versatile option for many Jeep owners.
• The heat shield helps protect the filter from dirt and debris, ensuring a cleaner air intake.
• The kit is designed to increase horsepower and torque and improve fuel efficiency.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kit has no assembly instructions, making installation more challenging.
• The kit is not CARB compliant, which may concern some buyers in states with strict emissions regulations.
• The kit may not fit perfectly on some Jeep models, requiring some modifications during installation.

The OBUYTO Cold Air Intake Kit is an affordable and effective way to improve your Jeep’s performance. The kit is designed to fit a wide range of Jeep models and comes with all the necessary accessories for installation. The heat shield helps protect the filter from dirt and debris, ensuring a cleaner air intake and better performance. Additionally, the kit is designed to increase horsepower and torque and improve fuel efficiency.

While a lack of assembly instructions may be a downside for some buyers, the installation is straightforward and can be done with simple tools. However, some Jeep models may require additional modifications to fit the kit properly. Furthermore, the equipment is not CARB-compliant, which may concern buyers in states with strict emissions regulations.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and effective way to improve your Jeep’s performance, the OBUYTO Cold Air Intake Kit is worth considering.

Rough Country Cold Air Intake for 1991-2001 Jeep Cherokee XJ

If you’re looking for a reliable cold air intake system for your Jeep Cherokee XJ, Rough Country’s Cold Air Intake System is a great option. It provides increased horsepower and throttle response while protecting your engine from harmful particles and debris.

Pros

• The system circulates cooler air, which is denser, and produces an increase in power by bringing more oxygen into the combustion chamber.
• The cylindrical design and large diameter tube allow Rough Country’s Cold Air Intake System to provide far better airflow than the factory air filter enclosed in a box.
• The system comes with a premium, reusable air filter that’s easy to clean for a long life of great performance.

Cons

• The clamps that come with the system are not of great quality.
• The installation process may be a bit difficult for some users.
• The system is not for sale in California or other states that adopt carb regulations.

The Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is an excellent investment for Jeep Cherokee XJ owners looking to improve their vehicle’s performance. The system is easy to install and comes with support provided by Rough Country. The premium, reusable air filter is also a great feature that ensures the system’s longevity.

However, some users may find the installation process difficult, and the clamps that come with the system are not of excellent quality. The system is not for sale in California or other states that adopt carb regulations.

Overall, the Rough Country Cold Air Intake System is worth considering if you’re looking for a reliable and efficient cold air intake system for your Jeep Cherokee XJ.

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit

If you want to increase your Jeep’s horsepower and torque while improving acceleration and towing, the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit is a great choice.

Pros

• Provides an estimated increase of up to 13HP and up to 12 ft. lbs. of Torque
• Allows your engine to breathe and sound as it should
• Provides better acceleration and uphill performance when towing

Cons

• Installation can be a bit tricky
• May produce a louder engine sound than some drivers prefer
• Pricey compared to other cold air intake options

The K&N Cold Air Intake Kit is designed to increase airflow to your engine, resulting in improved performance. The kit includes a High-Flow Air Filter that helps to shield your engine from contaminants. At the same time, a meticulously engineered aerodynamic tube design contributes to the guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque. The kit also features K&N’s signature reusable air filter that combines four layers of pleated, breathable cotton with K&N’s red filter oil to absorb dirt and dust particles, allowing clean air to continue flowing into your engine.

One of the standout features of the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit is its durability. The kit includes a durable roto-molded intake tube and a fully enclosed air box that helps protect intake air from the high temperature of your engine bay. Additionally, the kit is designed to be easy to install, with detailed, step-by-step instructions and all necessary parts included. However, some users have reported that installation can be a bit tricky.

While the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit provides many benefits, it may produce a louder engine sound than some drivers prefer. Additionally, the kit is more expensive than other cold air intake options. However, if you are looking for a high-quality, durable cold air intake kit that will provide a noticeable increase in performance, the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit is a great choice.

AIRAID Cold Air Intake System by K&N

If you want to increase your vehicle’s performance, the AIRAID MXP Air Intake System is worth considering.

Pros

• The aerodynamically-engineered intake tube accelerates airflow to your engine, increasing your vehicle’s performance.
• The washable, reusable air filter captures contaminants and provides top-quality engine protection.
• The enclosed airbox design protects inlet air from high temperatures.

Cons

• Some AIRAID air intakes are illegal for sale or use in California and other states adopting California emission standards.
• The installation process may take some time and effort.
• The price may be higher than other options.

The AIRAID MXP Air Intake System is a simple-to-install yet highly sophisticated system that increases airflow while maintaining proper air-to-fuel ratios, eliminating the need for recalibration after installation. The dry synthetic SYNTHAMAX air filter offers excellent airflow and exceptional contaminant protection.

The enclosed airbox design helps protect inlet air from high temperatures, while the aerodynamically engineered intake tube accelerates airflow to your engine, increasing your vehicle’s performance. The washable, reusable air filter captures contaminants and provides top-quality engine protection.

However, some AIRAID air intakes are illegal for sale or use in California and other states adopting California emission standards. The installation process may take time and effort, and the price may be higher than other options.

Overall, if you’re looking for a cold air intake system that can increase your vehicle’s performance, the AIRAID MXP Air Intake System is a solid option.

MOOSUN Performance Cold Air Intake Piping Kit

If you’re looking for an affordable cold air intake system for your Jeep Wrangler, the MOOSUN Performance Cold Air Intake Piping Kit is worth considering.

Pros

• This cold air intake system is designed to increase horsepower and torque, improve fuel economy, and create an attractive intake noise.
• The kit has everything you need for installation; no additional parts are required.
• The triple-reinforced silicone can withstand high heat and pressure, reducing vibration transfer due to hard impact shifting or engine movement.

Cons

• The tube is not as thick as other brands, which may affect durability.
• Some users have reported a decrease in gas mileage after installation.
• The installation process may be more difficult than expected.

The MOOSUN Performance Cold Air Intake Piping Kit is an affordable option for those looking to improve the performance of their Jeep Wrangler. The kit is designed to increase horsepower and torque, improve fuel economy, and create an attractive intake noise.

One of the main advantages of this kit is that it comes with everything you need for installation, and no additional parts are required. The triple-reinforced silicone can also withstand high heat and pressure, reducing vibration transfer due to hard impact shifting or engine movement.

However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. The tube is not as thick as some other brands, which may affect durability over time. Some users have also reported decreased gas mileage after installation, which may concern those looking to improve fuel efficiency. Finally, the installation process may be more difficult than expected, which could be a challenge for those not experienced with automotive repairs.

Overall, the MOOSUN Performance Cold Air Intake Piping Kit is a solid choice for those looking to improve the performance of their Jeep Wrangler without breaking the bank. While there are some drawbacks, the benefits of increased horsepower and torque, improved fuel economy, and an attractive intake noise make this kit worth considering.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best cold air intake for a Jeep, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:

Filter Type

The type of filter used in a cold air intake is an essential factor to consider. The filter should effectively filter out dirt and debris while allowing good airflow. Some common filter types include cotton, foam, and synthetic materials. Cotton filters are generally favored because they provide good filtration and airflow.

Material

The material used to construct the cold air intake is also essential. It should be durable enough to withstand harsh conditions and not rust easily. Common materials used include aluminum, plastic, and carbon fiber. Aluminum is a popular choice due to its durability and lightweight construction.

Design

The design of the cold air intake should also be considered. It should be designed to fit the specific make and model of the Jeep and should be easy to install. Some cold air intakes are designed to be bolt-on, while others require more extensive modifications.

Performance

Performance is another critical factor to consider when choosing a cold air intake. It should be designed to improve airflow and increase horsepower. Look for a cold air intake that has been tested and proven to provide a noticeable increase in performance.

Price

Price is always a consideration when purchasing any automotive part. Cold air intakes can range from under $100 to over $500. While a higher price does not always guarantee better performance, it is essential to consider the quality and durability of the product when making a purchase.

By considering these key features, buyers can make an informed decision when choosing the best cold air intake for their Jeep.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated cold air intakes for Jeeps?

If you want to enhance your Jeep’s performance metrics, especially horsepower and engine sound, top-rated cold air intakes like the K&N 77 Series, AEM Brute Force, and Volant Performance should be on your radar. These systems use high-grade materials like aluminum and silicone, engineered to enhance airflow and filtration efficiency. They have been rigorously tested under variable conditions to prove their mettle in augmenting horsepower and improving throttle response and fuel efficiency.

Which cold air intake is best for a Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The K&N 77 Series is often touted as the most optimal choice for a Jeep Grand Cherokee. This isn’t simply a matter of brand reputation; the system is precisely engineered to fit the Grand Cherokee’s engine bay perfectly, thereby maximizing the efficacy of airflow and filtration. However, AEM Brute Force and Volant Performance also produce cold air intakes fully compatible with the Grand Cherokee, offering benefits like improved throttle response and engine acoustics.

What is the best cold air intake for a Jeep Cherokee?

The K&N 63 Series and AEM Brute Force stand out as top-tier options for a Jeep Cherokee. Both systems are engineered to provide incremental gains in horsepower and throttle response. Furthermore, their build quality translates into a marked improvement in engine sound, giving your Cherokee a more aggressive, performance-oriented acoustic profile. When choosing between the two, consider additional features, such as whether the filter is washable and reusable, which could impact long-term maintenance costs.

Which cold air intake brand is better for a Jeep Wrangler JK: K&N or S&B?

Regarding the Jeep Wrangler JK, both K&N and S&B are frontrunners in the industry. The K&N 77 Series is often favored for its high-flow design and washable, reusable filter, which offers long-term value. S&B, on the other hand, S&B also provides robust performance and often incorporates proprietary technologies to optimize airflow and particle capture. Your decision might hinge on personal preferences such as ease of installation or the specific performance gains you aim for.

Can a cold air intake add significant horsepower to a Jeep Wrangler JL?

Yes, a cold air intake can yield a meaningful uptick in horsepower for a Jeep Wrangler JL, often in the range of 10-15 additional horsepower. This increase generally translates into improving throttle response and a richer engine sound. However, it’s crucial to consider that these gains can vary based on other modifications and the overall condition of your engine.

How much horsepower does a Mopar cold air intake add to a Jeep TJ?

Mopar cold air intakes are engineered to provide a noticeable bump in horsepower and torque for a Jeep TJ. However, the precise increment in horsepower varies depending on factors like engine condition, driving environment, and whether the vehicle has undergone other modifications. It’s not uncommon to see horsepower gains of 5-10% depending on these conditions. Always consult with a qualified technician to ensure the correct installation and calibration of the air intake system for maximum performance gains.