Acura TSX 2009-2014: Air Intake Reviews

This article applies to the Acura TSX (2009-2014).

Air intake systems in vehicles today normally comprise of a plastic junction of hoses, piping and boxes that envelope a paper panel filter. For the most part, this system does a good job of keeping the engine temperature down, inducting air into the motor and also helps by keeping debris out of it. For performance applications, the standard airbox filter is depriving to the motor of torque and power under hard acceleration and higher speeds. To force more air into the system to provide more torque and power, aftermarket manufacturers have created many different products car enthusiasts can utilize to increase performance.

There are a couple of different styles and methods to increasing the air flow via "air intake" systems. Traditionally, the paper filter was commonly replaced by another panel filter made by K&N. These filters were lubricated by oil, trapped dirt and debris and increased airflow while also improving fuel economy. The next style is called "short ram" air intake. These typically comprised of a cone filter that replaced the airbox system entirely. This was often paired with polished or ceramic tubing that connected all the way up to the throttle body. Another air intake system is the "cold air intake" system. Very similar to the short ram, except, there would be yet another bent polished or ceramic pipe that made its way down into the fender and bumper opening vents. At this point, a cone filter was connected that would draw cooler air when under acceleration. Each of the systems have their varying claims on performance and fuel economy. Learn how each system can benefit your needs using the chart and product comparisons below.

Air Intake Systems

Comptech Engineering (CT-e)

Price – $179

Reusable/Oiled Filter – Yes; reusable foam filter

Power Gains – Smooth and linear acceleration

Construction – Plastic, clamps, reusable foam filter

Warranty – 2 Years

Enthusiasts have reviewed this air intake system comparable to Injen and Takeda, and claim it to be quieter. They also noticed a smooth and linear power increase under acceleration. Initially, one user seemed to have been missing a clamp to affix the plastic elbow to the lower portion by the fender. This intake seems to combine the technology of a cold air intake system with a short ram intake in one. Recommended for its power increase and quiet performance.

Injen

Price – $250

Reusable/Oiled Filter – No

Power Gains – Negligible

Construction – Aluminum/powder coated piping, clamps, and cone filter

Warranty – Limited Lifetime

This intake system comes in two different flavors. Short ram and cold air intake. Both similar in design as well as finish, and look great under the hood. However, the mounting process tries to reuse the mounting point of the battery bracket. This is obstructive and can be a bit annoying for battery changes or other modifications to the throttle body, which will probably warrant a custom or additional brackets. Performance is not much to write home about, but the unit looks and sounds good. Enthusiasts do prefer the CAI over the SRI for both looks and sound. Although, some people have mentioned it is louder than the CT-e. Recommended for its sound and looks.

Takeda

Price – $300

Reusable/Oiled Filter – No

Power Gains – 12hp claimed

Construction – Ceramic/polished piping, clamps and cone filter

Warranty – 2 Years

This intake system is very similar to the Injen offering. Although there are some questionable claims around horsepower, people like the installation and look of the unit. For protection against debris and hydrolock, Takeda sells a "pre-filter" that covers the filter to keep bugs and dirt out of your system. People also opt for the CAI version over the SRI as well. Like the Injen intake, it is louder than the CT-e. Recommended for its installation and looks.

AEM

Price – $275.99

Reusable/Oiled Filter – Yes

Power Gains – Estimated 10hp gain

Construction – Ceramic piping, clamps and cone filter

Warranty – Lifetime Limited

Probably one of the best CAI options on the market for the past couple of decades. The easy fit and install, combined with a nice sound and increased throttle response make for a well put together product. The AEM intake is appreciably longer than the other options, meaning that the filter is placed further away from the hot engine, which is good. It, in theory, optimizes the air charge leading to the throttle body, meaning that this intake generates greater engine torque. On top of that, AEM offers this unit with a "dry flow" filter, which can be cleaned after a claimed 100,000 miles (dependent on driving conditions). This option is favored by many because it is one of the better built and sounding CAI's available today. Recommended for its easy installation, sound and increased throttle response.

K&N

Price – $356.99

Reusable/Oiled Filter – Yes

Power Gains – Increased torque and HP

Construction – Polished pipe, clamps, oiled panel, cone or short ram filters

Warranty – Lifetime Limited

K&N is a known and trusted name in the aftermarket automotive industry, and you are paying for the name. They have designed and constantly set the bar on top performing air filtration systems for vehicles and makes of all kinds. Similar to the AEM unit, the K&N is very long, with the goal of reducing air intake temperatures and minimizing heat soak. With their unique oiled filters, they provide added value of extra life and the option to reuse and continue to enjoy the benefits of an upgraded filter. While it's hard to measure true increase horsepower, claims have been made through testing of increased torque and consistent increase in horsepower. At minimum, enthusiasts can replace panel filters with a "drop in" K&N panel filter for the fraction of the cost of an CAI system. Recommended for its reputation.

Related Discussions and Site

• CT-e Review - AcuraZine.com
• Injen CAI vs SRI - AcuraZine.com
• Takeda CAI/SRI Review - AcuraZine.com
• CAI vs SRI Opinions - AcuraZine.com
• Intake Installation PDF guide - AEMIntakes.com