Honda-Tech - Honda Forum Discussion

Honda Accord: Air Intake Review

If your car is feeling sluggish at the throttle? Try an air intake system upgrade.

By Piyush Kayastha - February 23, 2015

This article applies to the Honda Accord (1990-2002).

Several vehicle manufacturers design their motors with specific elements in mind. For example, air induction can greatly benefit from extra air flow. It's an area largely open to design and improvement, so when it comes to air intakes, there are several aftermarket options available for the Honda Accord. Since a dirty stock paper filter will reduce gas mileage, enhancing the air induction system can likely double up an engine's efficiency, and a new air intake may well be worth the purchase. Optimal improvements will typically be seen when pairing the intake with a new exhaust and header system. Depending on the needs or use of your vehicle, the performance and results of different air intakes will vary.

Air Intakes
K&N
DC Sports
AEM
Injen CAI
Price
 $28 $113 $299 $140
Performance
 3-5hp and +mpg 3-5 hp 5-7hp and +mpg 3-5hp and +mpg
Warranty
 Million Mile Limited Warranty 1 Year Limited Lifetime Limited Lifetime
Best Quality: K&N

Best Value: K&N

K&N

Price – $28

Performance – Increased horsepower and gas mileage

Warranty – Limited

Forum members elect this filter as one of the best upgrades for your air intake system. There is some speculation of pairing the piping from other brands with K&N brand cone filters, but this is a matter of preference. No huge gains are reported from either setup and there has been a minimal increase seen in mpg. However, this is a cost-effective upgrade that will noticeably enhance your vehicle's efficiency and performance. Recommended for its cost-effective enhancement.

DC Sports

Price – $113

Performance – Increased horsepower

Warranty – 1 year

Several members have used DC Sports intakes, but the reported results vary. Some claim a slight gain in horsepower and mpg, while others have claimed these intakes are an aesthetic upgrade with some improved throttle response and sound. Recommended for its horsepower and mpg gain.

AEM

Price – $299

Performance – Increased horsepower and gas mileage

Warranty – Limited

While members have elected this as a great upgrade, it is the most expensive. Claims for horsepower and gas mileage are inconclusive and have not been confirmed. However, members that have chosen this intake brand do enjoy it, claiming that they receive great throttle response and sound. Recommended for its throttle response and sound.

Injen CAI

Price – $140

Performance – Increased horsepower and gas mileage

Warranty – Limited

Injen's air intake systems are very similar to what the aforementioned brands offer. Engine enthusiasts have claimed an increase in horsepower and gas mileage, but there is still no hard data available to prove any noticeable gains. Your preference for Injen's brand and air intake system will determine if the results or performance fit properly to your needs. Recommended for its horsepower and gas mileage.

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