Upgrading to a cold air intake typically means lower intake air temperatures, less restriction compared to stock, and a noticeable rumble that enhances throttle response. While real-world horsepower gains are modest (10–20 hp on boosted engines), users appreciate the audible—and incremental performance—enhancements.
That said, some forum voices caution:
“Stock air box is already a cold air intake… you may actually lose performance.” reddit.com
Still, others find the noise and slight throttle improvement worth the investment. Let’s dive into the best options.
Top 5 Cold Air Intakes for Ford F‑150
S&B 2018‑2025 5.0L Cold Air Intake
Pros:
- Fully enclosed airbox, keeps heat shielded
- Improves airflow ~40% over stock
- Cotton cleanable filter with million-mile warranty
Cons: - Not CARB legal in California
- Subtle power gains; more about throttle feel
aFe Magnum FORCE Stage‑2 XP
Pros:
- Upflows factory intake by 44%, adds ~5 hp and 6 lb‑ft torque
- Dyno-tested on 2.7L and 3.5L versions
- Dry filter, no oiling needed
Cons: - Not CARB-compliant in CA
- Requires tuning for best results
S&B SAB75‑5076D Cold Air Intake (2011‑2014 5.0L)
Pros:
- 24.7% more airflow than stock, dry extendable filter
- Tailored fit for older 5.0L trucks
Cons: - Limited to 2011–2014 5.0L models
- No CARB approval
Corsa 21‑22 5.0L Cold Air Intake
Pros:
- Closed box design, retains cold air
- Highly rated (4.7/5) with solid build quality
Cons: - Premium price (~$392)
- Requires tuning; not CARB-certified
aFe Momentum GT Cold Air Intake
Pros:
- Large clear window for maintenance checks
- Sealed housing uses factory hood scoop—fits 2021–2022 3.5L PowerBoost
- Washable/reusable 5R filter
Cons: - CARB-exempt status varies by region
- Size could complicate installation
Comparison Table
| Intake Kit | Fitment | Airflow Gain | Filter Type | CARB Legal |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S&B 5.0L Cold Air Intake | 2018–25 5.0L F‑150 | ~40% | Cotton cleanable | No |
| aFe Magnum FORCE Stage‑2 XP | 2015–22 2.7/3.5L | ~44% & +5 hp | Pro Dry S filter | No |
| S&B SAB75‑5076D | 2011–14 5.0L F‑150 | ~24.7% | Dry extendable | No |
| Corsa 2021‑22 Intake | 2021–22 5.0L | Estimated high | Oiled oiled box | No |
| aFe Momentum GT for 3.5L | 2021–22 3.5L PowerBoost | Large sealed | Washable 5R filter | Varies |
Real Talk from F‑150 Owners
Users across F‑150 forums share varied experiences:
“They look pretty, but don’t do much beyond that.” sbfilters.com+3roushperformance.com+3f150forum.com+3f150tremor.com
“Takes a lot to make a cold air intake have gains, but beats a one-time filter.” f150tremor.com
Many report better sound and throttle response, with modest dyno gains—best appreciated as a part of a larger performance kit.
FAQs
1. Will a cold air intake improve gas mileage?
No guaranteed MPG boost—most gains are in throttle response and intake sound. But smoother airflow can slightly help efficiency under load.
2. Does installing a CAI void my warranty?
Not automatically. Ford Performance sells aftermarket intakes, and warranty coverage is typically intact—just avoid altering critical components reddit.com.
3. Do I need to tune after installation?
For best results, especially on turbo engines, tuning is recommended. Stock tuning may limit gains or even reduce performance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to enhance throttle feel, get a deeper growl, and unlock a bit more airflow, a cold air intake can be a satisfying upgrade for your F‑150. The S&B 5.0L kit is a solid all-rounder, while the aFe Stage‑2 XP offers balanced performance for V6 builds. Serious truck owners may appreciate the premium Corsa box or Momentum GT’s filter window.
Just keep in mind: gains are modest, installation may affect emissions compliance, and tuning unlocks the full potential. But for a few hundred bucks, it’s a simple, bolt-on enhancement that makes driving your F‑150 feel… more like your ride.