As an expert in the automotive industry, I am often asked about the benefits of high-performance air filters. And the most common question I receive is, 'How much horsepower does a high-performance air filter add?' The answer is simple: yes, high-performance air filters do offer an increase in power. On average, this increase is around 3-5 hp. While this may seem like a minor increase, it can make a significant difference in the overall performance of a vehicle and greatly improve the driving experience.
One of the best performing high-performance air filters on the market is the K&N filter. In fact, when installed in a vehicle, it allowed the engine to produce an impressive 164.42 hp and 142.53 lb-ft of torque. However, it's important to note that this was only a slight improvement of 1.1 hp and 1.71 lb-ft compared to a cheap aftermarket filter. But what was truly surprising was the performance of the CarQuest aftermarket filter.
Despite its lower cost, it actually outperformed the clean OEM filter. This goes to show that price does not always determine quality when it comes to air filters. When I installed a K&N filter in my own van, I also took the extra step of removing the grille in front of the air filter box and disconnecting the positive cable for 5 minutes. This allowed the computer to restart and relearn how to use the new air-fuel mixture, resulting in even better performance.
One of the main advantages of K&N filters is their ability to hold more dirt and particles per square inch compared to traditional paper filters. This is because disposable paper filters have extremely small openings in order to filter efficiently, which can greatly restrict airflow. By using a K&N filter, you not only get better performance, but you also save money in the long run by not having to constantly replace disposable filters. Over time, disposable filters become increasingly restrictive to airflow as dust accumulates on the surface and blocks the openings in the medium.
This is why the dirty OEM air filter in my test only allowed the car to produce 158.25 hp and 137.25 lb-ft of torque. But it's not just about performance. K&N intakes also offer superior engine protection with their specially designed, premium high-flow air filter. Unlike paper filters, which only accumulate dust on the surface, K&N filters have a principle called surface charge, which allows them to capture more particles and keep your engine running smoothly.
In fact, K&N filters are so durable that they can last for over 100,000 miles. And when it's time for a refill, simply use the appropriate K&N refill system to clean and grease the filter. This ensures that you continue to get the performance you expect from your K&N intake while also providing cutting-edge protection for your engine. The premium air filter included in the K&N intake system is designed to increase airflow by up to 50% compared to traditional disposable paper filters.
Additionally, the intake tube is specifically designed to allow a large volume of oxygen-rich air to flow without any excess baffles or components that can slow down airflow.