The Mazda 3 Cold Air Intake Upgrade Instructions. A redesigned intake is one of the first upgrades considered for many car customizing projects. This is also true for the Mazda 3 and its numerous variations. A better intake has a number of advantages. However, one of the primary benefits of an enhanced intake is an increase in total power.
In terms of horsepower per dollar ratio, upgraded intakes are among the most cost-effective improvements. Because the Mazda 3 has a great and adaptable basic structure for customization, many drivers see upgrading the intake as a natural priority. A new intake, when combined with a solid tune and appropriate supporting mods, can significantly boost the engine’s power and performance.
However, the benefits obtained are highly dependent on a variety of factors. The quality, type, and balance of supporting changes are critical for any modded engine. With that said, let’s take a look at some of the most crucial factors to consider while upgrading your Mazda 3.
Performance Intake Systems: Open vs. Closed
Before delving into the immediate benefits and horsepower gains connected with Mazda 3 performance intakes, it is critical to understand the various types of intakes available. Open vs. closed intakes are two of the most important subtypes of intakes. Both provide distinct design structures, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Closed air intakes are built within an enclosure, resulting in a cleaner and cooler airflow capacity. This enclosure also serves as a barrier or precaution around the intake. A closed system’s intake sound is also often deeper in tone than an open system’s. Because of the casing that surrounds the intake, a closed system will receive airflow at a lower temperature. However, many drivers may find that a closed intake is less appealing than an open intake.
Open intakes may draw less pure air and air that is warmer. However, for a variety of reasons, these solutions are more popular. For starters, they typically have the higher induction sound and clean modified appearance that many drivers prefer. Because of their open shape, cold air intakes allow for higher overall airflow. Closed intakes may provide lower intake airflow temperature. However, given the role of an engine’s intercooler, this may become meaningless. In most cases, the horsepower difference is insufficient to change drivers’ preferences between the two types. As a result, when deciding between designs, drivers must consider our other previously mentioned details.
Cold Air Intakes vs. Short Ram Intakes
Cold air versus short ram are the two fundamental distinctions in intake types. Each kind is connected with different strengths. A cold air intake is intended to redirect the intake towards a cooler area of the engine compartment. To maximize efficiency, this design allows the intake to bring in air at a lower temperature. A short ram is often designed with less length and without a resonator and filter box. As a result, the primary goal of a short ram design is to effectively pull in air while causing airflow to travel a less distance.
Because of the direct channel of airflow and the fact that the design does not seek to extract air from a cooler section of the engine bay, airflow into a short ram intake will be hotter than airflow into a cold air intake. In terms of horsepower improvements, cold air intake may offer a modest advantage over short rams. However, in many cases, this may be a negligible difference. Short ram intakes are generally noisier when pushed hard on the throttle. Cold air intakes, on the other hand, typically have that greater induction performance sound that many drivers crave. Aside from the appearance and sounds, drivers should not expect a significant variation between intake designs.
The Advantages of a Performance Intake Upgrade – Mazda 3
Many drivers working on modification projects want a quick and inexpensive solution to increase horsepower. The first thing to think about is usually an updated intake system. As previously stated, a new intake is one of the most cost-effective and time-efficient ways to increase total power. It is crucial to note, however, that an enhanced cold air intake may only increase power by a little amount. Significant improvements in horsepower and torque are the result of numerous supporting upgrades and a proper tune.
However, when it comes to increasing engine power, improving the intake on a Mazda 3 is an excellent place to start. Drivers might explore additional mods after this upgrade to achieve higher benefits. Modifications for your Mazda 3 that we recommend include:
- Tuning
- Cams for high performance
- improved exhaust
- turbochargers/superchargers that have been upgraded
Mazda 3 owners can expect to noticeably boost power and performance with a well-balanced combination of the changes and upgrades outlined above. Aside from higher power, an improved intake may provide a number of other advantages. Many drivers, for example, may notice an increase in fuel efficiency. This improvement may not be considerable, but it may be beneficial for individuals trying to save a few dollars on petrol each year. As a result, drivers desire higher fuel efficiency, more power, better acceleration, and improved induction sounds from updated intakes.
Furthermore, the adage “you get what you pay for” often applies to most improvements. The key to any customized engine, including the Mazda 3, is researching cost-effective supplies, balancing supportive changes, and performing correct maintenance and repairs.
Mazda 3 Intake Systems That Work
As of 2022, there are numerous improved intakes available for the various eras of the Mazda 3. Almost an unnecessary amount in total; as a result, many drivers may be wondering what is best for their engine. With our best recommendations for your new updated intake alternatives, we hope to save many drivers’ time. With that said, let’s get into our top three recommended intakes for the Mazda 3.
1) K&N Performance Air Intake System for Mazda
When advising adjustments, I always say, “Can’t go wrong with K&N.” This is one of the most respected aftermarket parts dealers on the market today. The most expensive upgrade we recommend for your Mazda 3 is this K&N performance air intake. However, you get what you pay for, and K&N is certain to give an overall high-quality product. These intakes make use of a washable and reusable filter for simple maintenance and replacement if necessary. The custom-sized heat shield is also a great buy, as it prevents heat or undesirable particles from entering the filter. Less heat and more airflow often equate to higher engine efficiency and output.
This intake is a top-tier option that will improve induction sounds, clean up your engine compartment, and offer a modest but noticeable boost of extra power. Open intake systems are more widely available for various Mazda 3 years and configurations, and K&N is a top maker of both open and closed CAIs. This K&N performance open air intake is a solid and high-quality overall option.
Price: $380
2) Cold Air Intake System Injen SP Series
Injen, another well-known name in the aftermarket industry, offers this intake. With a cheap price range, a sleek look, and a respected manufacturer, it’s difficult to ignore this option’s overall value. Injen employs a dry web filter that does not need to be cleaned, making it simple to maintain. Furthermore, this intake is advertised as being able to tolerate heavy mileage and wear without losing efficiency or deterioration. It’s difficult to refute the mix of qualities that comes with this Injen Intake as a cost-effective performance alternative. The “super nanoweb” dry filters that these intakes come with are a significant strength that Injen advertises. This filter improves airflow, boosts horsepower and torque, and improves overall filtration.
For less than $215, this is an excellent alternative for any Mazda 3 driver looking for a makeover that would improve induction sounds, provide a more elegant style, and possibly increase performance (even if just little).
Price: $212
3) JBR Power Path Stage 3 Cold Air Intake Mazda3
JBR provides another open CAI option for your Mazda 3, ensuring increased performance and powerful induction sounds. This JBR power path CAI is available in three distinct filter and silicone tubing color options. It is made of molded polished aluminum to ensure optimal airflow. Furthermore, the lighter silicone and aluminum housing components should allow heat to be shed faster and overall intake air temperatures to be lower. This intake is for Mazda 3s made between 2013 and 2017. Another CAI that is sure to provide greater induction sounds and increase power for drivers looking for a bit more under the hood. Furthermore, the appearance of a clean engine bay with many color options is a key selling feature.
Price: $285
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Summary of Mazda 3 Intake Upgrades
It is critical to emphasize that many drivers may be expecting too much from an enhanced cold air intake alone. An improved intake has immediate benefits after installation. However, for those looking for considerable gains in total power, additional upgrades are required. A strong tune, appropriate supporting mods, and an understanding of your Mazda 3’s engine system are some of the prerequisites for those looking for more extensive power and performance gains.
However, for good reason, an upgraded intake is a popular first step for installation in many customization projects. Upgraded intakes, in general, will immediately add that more forceful or higher-toned induction sounds that many people prefer. Intakes may help clean up the engine bay and add a cleaner or sleeker aesthetic, making maintenance and installation of additional mods more accessible or simple overall. Some Mazda 3 owners may notice an increase in overall power, but significant increases in torque and power will be seen with a tune and other helpful enhancements. The benefits of a cold air intake, as well as their general price in comparison to other modifications, making them an appealing alternative for many engine renovations.
The Mazda 3 has a growing aftermarket customer base. Although the engine is not well known for its performance value, there is still a community interested in its potential and capabilities. As a result, we recommended products from K&N, Injen, and JBR throughout our list of enhanced intake alternatives. When it comes to aftermarket car parts, it is vital to realize that you typically get what you pay for. As a result, sticking to dependable and respected manufacturers, such as those on our list, is always the best option.
