7 Best Cold Air Intake for Jeep Wrangler JK
Upgrading your Jeep engine is certainly important, specifically if you are into off-roading adventures. I have been using them for at least three years and these alternatives have clearly made my life easy and the engine efficient. These further integrate dedicated filters that improve air circulation and prevent safety hazards by maintaining an optimal temperature and speed.
So, wondering what makes the right cold air intake setup for a Jeep Wrangler? If you are planning to invest in one, you need to look into important elements, such as its compatibility, durability, motor capacity, speed range, and installation requirements. Finally, to save your day, I have included some best cold air intake for Jeep Wrangler JK along with important buying instructions. So, let’s get in for more.
Best Cold Air Intake for Jeep Wrangler JK Overview
IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
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Best Overall | Best Overall
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K&N Cold Air Intake Kit |
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Check Price |
Premium Pick | Premium Pick
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Mopar 77070052 Cold Air Intake |
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Check Price |
Top Pick | Top Pick
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K&N Cold Air Intake Kit |
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Check Price |
Editor’s Choice | Editor’s Choice
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Mishimoto MMAI-JLP-18S Air Intake |
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Heavy Duty | Heavy Duty
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aFe Power Magnum Jeep Wrangler (JK) Intake System |
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Check Price |
Best Seller | Best Seller
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AEM 21-478WR Wrinkle Red Cold Air Intake System |
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Check Price |
Budget Friendly | Budget Friendly
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Airaid Cold Air Intake System |
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7 Best Cold Air Intake for Jeep Wrangler JK
1. K&N Cold Air Intake Kit
Best Overall
Features
- Motor Capacity: 7.26 HP
- Speed Range: 5600 RPM
- Filtration system: black dry flow air filters
- Includes stainless steel/ aluminum tubes
I am starting my list of the best cold air intake for Jeep Wrangler JK with this K&N kit, all thanks to its high engine performance and sturdy construction. I have used this in the past and it wouldn’t be wrong to say that it offers a perfect blend of convenience and functionality. Moreover, my favorite in this model is the dry filtration setup that provides you with improved airflow and fuel efficiency.
The first thing to note here is the heat shield polyethylene intake tubes which are absolutely durable and resist corrosion. I didn’t notice any issues with leakage or corrosion. Speaking of cleaning, it doesn’t require you to maintain it until 100K miles which is great for lazy people like me. Here, the bolt-on design is absolutely easy to install and doesn’t take more than fifteen minutes.
Lastly, another thing to appreciate about this model is its intake mechanism which operates at 5600 RPM and provides you with better acceleration. I also didn’t notice any issues with the overall engine sound, even on tough and off-roading terrains. In addition, the dry filters and wide intake tubes help you with smooth airflow and improved speed.
What we liked
- Engine is safe
- Durable and sturdy
- Easy to clean
- It doesn’t restrict air
What we didn’t like
- It takes certain tools for installation
Wrapping up, this K&N cold air intake setup is by far the best across the market for its improved airflow and organized construction. I really like the polyethylene intake tubings which were phenomenal in providing you with better acceleration and speed. All in all, I notice no hurdle in air circulation through the engine. It also doesn’t require cleaning up to 100K miles which is always a plus for off-roading vehicles.
2. Mopar 77070052 Cold Air Intake
Premium Pick
Features
- It has a bolt-on design
- Improved engine sound
- Filtration system: oiled and dry filters
- It comes with an instruction manual
Here comes yet another best cold air intake for Jeep Wrangler JK for budget enthusiasts, hugely popular for its fuel-efficient design. I particularly like this setup for its ability to improve the engine sound and acceleration for my off-roading adventures. Similarly, when it comes to cleaning, I have found this absolutely convenient and time-efficient.
To begin with, the first thing I would like to mention here is its steel tubing which makes it sturdy. For the past six months, there have been no issues with scratches and corrosion. Here, it is worth mentioning that this model comes with dry and oiled filters which not only improve the sound but also provide you with superior acceleration, even on complicated terrains.
Lastly, when it comes to the assembly, the bolt-on design was fairly easy and took me over 30 minutes. Although it is a bit lengthy, the manufacturers have added an instruction manual which was pretty understandable, even for amateurs. In addition, the filters are easy to clean and I only cleaned them after 1,00,000 miles which is pretty considerable for an affordable alternative.
What we liked
- Easy to clean
- Durable and sturdy
- Superior acceleration/ engine sound
- Straightforward installation process
What we didn’t like
- Assembly can take some time
Wrapping up, this fuel-efficient, affordable Mopar intake unit is a great choice for off-roading enthusiasts like me. I found it highly impressive in improving the acceleration and engine sound which is a huge plus for this model. Similarly, the fact that it is easy to clean and install makes it of great value. All in all, it worked well for my Wrangler JK and TJ.
3. K&N Cold Air Intake Kit
Top Pick
Features
- Motor Capacity: 2 HP
- Speed Range: 4500 RPM
- Filtration system: aerodynamic tube design (oiled filters)
- Designed for better engine sound and throttle
If you are a budget enthusiast like me and want something for your Jeep Wrangler, this one might work well. I am absolutely impressed by its aerodynamics tubing and cold intake technology that provides you with high-end performance. Likewise, another thing I believe is worth mentioning is its reusable filters that cut the cost to a great extent.
First of all, the sturdy aluminum tubings help you with long service life. It is also metallic finish and coated with powder, providing you with resistance to corrosion. Here, it includes aerodynamics tubes that are easy to clean and don’t take much maintenance. However, it can take some time in the assembly process and it can be tricky for amateurs. For this, the manufacturers have included a detailed manual.
In the end, another thing to appreciate here is its aerodynamics tube design that provides you with incredible air circulation. I didn’t notice any issue related to restricted air in the tubings. This function works incredibly well in improving the acceleration and sound of the engine. Finally, the fact that it has a better throttle response makes it suitable for off-roading adventures.
What we liked
- No restricted airflow
- Improve engine acceleration
- Offers easy cleaning
- Resist physical damage
What we didn’t like
- Installation can be a bit tricky
Final thoughts, this K&N is undoubtedly the best cold air intake for Jeep Wrangler JK, all credit to its well-organized design. The aerodynamic tubing is great for providing you with better acceleration, and improved engine sound, needless to say, irrespective of any restricted air issues. Here, the washable air filters helped me in cutting the additional cost for the most part.
4. Mishimoto MMAI-JLP-18S Air Intake – Best For Jeep Wrangler JL
Editor’s Choice
Features
- Motor Capacity: 10.8 HP
- Includes low-restriction tubes
- Filtration system: oiled and dry filters
- It has a 3.6 L Pentastar engine
This Mishimoto air intake is another quality alternative from my side for its dual-air filtration setup. I really like this one for its roto-molded tube that provides you with smooth air circulation and improved engine sound. Likewise, it is equally worth mentioning that this is easy to install and clean for the most part.
Starting off, its tubings are made up of roto-molding which is highly durable and resists corrosion remarkably well. It further integrates wide tubings that help you with improved air circulation. Also, when it comes to installation, the bolt-on design is pretty easy, even for beginners, and doesn’t take much time.
Finally, for performance, this system operates at a 10.89 HP motor that is suitable enough to add to the engine acceleration and engine sound. The engine remains stable on uneven and off-roading terrains, irrespective of the speed. In the end, you do not have to maintain it up to 100K miles which is convenient for drivers.
What we liked
- Large air tubes
- Easy to clean
- Improved engine sound
- Easy to assemble
What we didn’t like
- It can be a bit expensive
In essence, this air intake setup is sufficient enough to improve the engine utility, with an easy assembly and cleaning process. I absolutely like this one for its large filters and wide tubes, making it great for smooth air circulation and engine performance. Moreover, the setup further provides you with 11.4 pounds ft torque which is incredible in maximizing the utility of Wrangler JL & JK’s new models.
5. aFe Power Magnum Jeep Wrangler (JK) Intake System
Heavy Duty
Features
- Motor Capacity: 12 HP
- It comes in one piece
- Filtration system: Pro 5R air Guard filters
- Includes stainless T-shaped bolts
Here comes yet another best cold air intake for Jeep Wrangler JK, popular for its high power and speed range. It is designed to provide your engine with maximum air circulation and engine sound. In addition, the T-bolt clamps help you in making the setup safe and secure, irrespective of the wobbling.
First of all, it has steel tubes that are durable and resist corrosion ideally. It further integrates sealed housing which is accompanied by T-bolt clamps that helps you with security for off-roading terrains. Similarly, these bolts are easy to install and don’t take much time or skill.
Lastly, another thing to appreciate here is its Pro Guard7 filters that provide you with superior engine sound and improved circulation. Here, the T-bolt clamps are designed in a way that keeps the vehicle stable, irrespective of the speed. All in all, it doesn’t require maintenance until 100k miles.
What we liked
- It is fuel-efficient
- Sturdy and long-lasting
- Easy to assemble/ clean
What we didn’t like
- The air might issue in some cases
In conclusion, this aFe power intake system is suitable for Jeep Wrangler JK for its sturdy tubings and steel design. It is equipped with a powerful motor that provides you with improved airflow and superior acceleration. Here, the T-bolts not only secure the unit but are incredibly easy to assemble together.
6. AEM 21-478WR Wrinkle Red Cold Air Intake System
Best Seller
Features
- Motor setup: 36 HP
- Speed range: 5300 RPM
- Includes powder-coated synthetic air filters
- It has bent aluminum parts
This powerful AEM air intake setup is yet another quality option for Jeep Wranglers, hugely popular for its well-organized filters. It includes washable and reusable filters that immediately maximize the utility of your Wrangler engine. Here, the powerful motor setup and speed make it worth the money.
First of all, this one comes with mandrel-bent aluminum tubes which are long-lasting and provide you with durability. It also resists corrosion well and prevents physical damage. In addition, the tubes are wide and coated with powder, so you don’t have to worry about restricted airflow for the most part.
In the end, for performance, the manufacturers have added synthetic filters that help you with superior engine acceleration and sound. It also provides the engine with smooth air circulation, while maintaining potential heat. This function reduces friction and maintains the intake temperature quite well.
What we liked
- Smooth air circulation
- Prevents heating ideally
- Sturdy and durable
What we didn’t like
- Installation can take some time
Wrapping up, this AEM cold intake air setup is a great choice for anyone in search of something convenient yet functional. It remarkably increases the engine performance by reducing friction and maintaining acceleration. Moreover, the aluminum tubes are sturdy and easy to clean for the most part.
7. Airaid Cold Air Intake System
Budget Friendly
Features
- Motor Capacity: 10 HP
- It has stainless steel tubings
- Filtration system: reusable synthetic filters
- Includes washable and reusable filters
Last but not least on my list of the best cold air intake for Jeep Wrangler JK, hugely popular for its ability to keep the temperature optimum. It is equipped with quality tubings that increase acceleration and improve air circulation. Moreover, the cleaning and installation processes are pretty easy for beginners.
The first thing to note here is its stainless steel tubes that are coated with powder. So, you don’t have to worry about corrosion damage. It further integrates oiled filters that are highly efficient and easy to clean. For installation, the T-bolts are easy to assemble and don’t take much time for the entire process.
Lastly, for performance, this setup has oiled filter media that include synthetic polyethylene cotton that provides you with improved acceleration. It also reduces friction and maintains the overall optimal temperature of the vehicle. All in all, I noticed absolutely no issues related to restricted air.
What we liked
- Quick and easy installation
- Sturdy/ durable tubing
- Smooth airflow/ optimal temperature
What we didn’t like
- Sound is not the best
In conclusion, this Airaid intake system is undoubtedly one of my favorites for its organized tubing and sturdy construction. It is equipped with synthetic filters that help you with improved air circulation and maintain optimal temperature. Here, the washable filters make this system worth the money.
What to Look for While Buying the Best Cold Air Intake for Jeep Wrangler: All You Need to Know
Choosing the right cold air intake is absolutely important as it can make a huge impact on the overall utility of the engine. A quality alternative can help you with improved air circulation, superior sound experience, and maintaining the optimal temperature. Finally, here are some important things you need to look into while buying the right cold air intake for Jeep Wrangler JK;
Compatibility
The first thing you need to make sure of is vehicle compatibility. Here, the majority of the intake setups are vehicle-specific, so it becomes highly significant that you have thoroughly looked into the specifications. Here, you can either look at it on the website or on the package itself. Just make sure it is compatible with the specific Jeep Wrangler model.
Performance Efficiency
Another primary thing you need to consider is the efficiency of your intake setup. Here, the first thing you need to make sure of is that it maintains the optimal temperature and reduces friction, so there are fewer chances of heating issues. Here, it is also important to have a comprehensive air circulation setup as it can help you with an improved sound experience. This function can also provide you with improved acceleration and speed. However, make sure it is designed specifically for your requirements.
Installation and Assembly
If you are new to intake setups, it can be a bit difficult to set up these things. Here, you need something that is fairly easy to install together. I would advise you to always go for T-bolt clamps or basic steel tubings as they are convenient, even for beginners. Similarly, if you have opted for a difficult design, make sure it comes with an instruction manual as it undoubtedly makes the job easy for you. Also, make sure that it doesn’t demand many unnecessary tools which are not readily available.
Filters Construction
The filter is another significant element of the intake setup as it largely determines the performance of your vehicle. In simple words, it keeps the engine running and prevents dirt from entering it. Here, I would recommend you go for dry synthetic filters as they are great at keeping the air circulation smooth. You can also find the dual filtration system (oiled and dry), so go for one if you want premium performance.
Material Construction
Last but not least, it is important to look into the material the manufacturers have used for the setup. Here, commonly, you can find polyethylene, aluminum, and stainless steel, all of which are highly durable and don’t get scratched easily. Irrespective of the material you used, I would recommend you go for powder coating or metallic finish as it can help you with corrosion resistance.
In the end, I hope you soon will find the best cold air intake for Jeep Wrangler JK, as per your individual requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it recommended to install a cold air intake by yourself?
Well, it all comes down to your individual requirements. If you have opted to do it yourself, I would recommend you go for an instruction manual as it can make the job easy. It is equally important to make sure that you have a distinct skill set for the entire assembly process. Similarly, if it is certainly difficult to install, I would advise you to not do it yourself and consult some professional help.
What is the difference between dry and oiled air filters?
In simple words, dry air filters are designed for more air circulation and improved engine speed/acceleration. I usually prefer these because of their ability to provide you with unrivaled efficiency and safety against overheating, however, these are not reusable. In contrast, oiled filters are designed to be washed with a fair deal of efficiency. So, if you want to cut additional costs, these might work well.
Do I need an air intake setup for my Jeep Wrangler JK?
Yes, if you are an off-roading enthusiast like me, it is certainly important that you invest in an air intake system. These alternatives immediately improve the performance of your engine, by increasing the acceleration and maintaining the optimal temperature so that there are no issues of overheating. Similarly, these also make the engine sound bearable. All in all, for difficult terrains, this setup improves the air circulation for the engine.
Hi! This is Marcus Adams, an adventurer who has a passion for jeeps. I have been exploring terrains for about 10 years and has trailed on a variety of jeeps. My passion for off-roading has allowed me to learn everything jeeps have to offer. Now, I have turned his passion into a professional project in form of this SMOOTHDRIVES website, where I plan to share my expertise about all kinds of off-roading accessories for jeeps, trucks and SUV’s and provide readers with high-quality content.