Despite the type of factory engine performance that leaves most other cars in the dust, the 5th generation Ford Mustang (2005 – 2014) still allows for plenty of upgrades, essential and non-essential. A non-essential example would be the Miata MX5 coilovers I got for my wife’s Mazda , but one of the most efficient and affordable ways to make your pony untouchable is with a Mustang cold air intake.
This type of modification is extremely popular with Mustang mod enthusiasts on PFYC.com. And it’s not hard to see why. Mustang cold air intakes offer:
- Excellent return on investment. Less pricy than a header or exhaust upgrade, a Mustang cold air intake provides premium performance for anyone on a budget.
- Easy installation. In less than an hour, your Mustang cold air intake is up and running!
- Endless variety. Depending on how much power, torque and fuel efficiency you want, PFYC.com has a garage-full of Mustang cold air intakes to meet your specifications.
The basic idea behind the cold air intake is fairly simple: increase the amount of cold air into the combustion chamber to produce a faster, more responsive Mustang. But those aren’t the only benefits of a Mustang cold air intake; with the increased cold air moving through the engine, the total combustion process needs less total energy – namely, fewer fuel deposits and reduced heat requirements.
Better fuel economy, refined engine performance, increased acceleration, even superior sound – what’s not to love about a Mustang cold air intake upgrade? As we’ve already mentioned, you can do this relatively simple project in an hour or less.
Before popping the hood, collect the following tools: a screwdriver set (flat-head and Philips), a metric socket set with extension, needle-nose pliers, Torx bits, and, if you’ve never done a Mustang cold air intake before, preferably a friend who has.
The process is logical and straightforward. Once you’ve parked your Mustang and shut the engine off, you’re ready to get started.
Original Air Intake Removal
- Locate the throttle body, where you’ll find the factory air intake cover. Remove and set aside.
- Remove all connector hoses from the intake body, and also remove the mass air sensor. You can also take the mass air sensor off of the air box and install it in the new cold air intake body.
- Remove remaining bolts, and remove air box from the factory throttle body.
New Mustang Cold Air Intake Installation
Your new cold air intake is ready for installation. Give your engine one final check to ensure there aren’t any wires, hardware of other accessories in the installation bay.
- Line up the new Mustang cold air intake with factory mounting hole pattern.
- Position air intake with stock components. You can also install any sleeves or reducing accessories at this time. For new Mustang cold air intake parts, make sure access screws are easily accessible for future maintenance or upgrades.
- Put on new cold air intake filter, and install new accessories on existing throttle body.
- Install the factory connections (wires, hardware, PCV hoses, etc.).
- Install the new Mustang cold air intake cover, if necessary.
You’re Almost Done!
Just two more simple steps and your Mustang will be ready to go!
- Go back and ensure all the connections are secure, all hoses are connected and everything is installed properly.
- It’s not required, but we suggest getting a professional tune-up before driving your Mustang extensively. Once your pony has been tuned, enjoy the extra HP, torque and more!
PFYC.com is home to the best performance auto parts and accessories you’ll find anywhere, and we’re also your #1 source for installation tips, buying advice and much more. Our products, selection, and service are now backed by one of the most comprehensive online knowledge bases, so make sure you check back often for more tips and tricks. For any questions about your Mustang cold air intake parts, please call us at 866-695-7392. We have Mustang cold air intake systems for V-6 engines, V-8 engines and also a premium selection of Eco-Boost cold air intakes.
