If you are wondering whether to get the best cold air intake for chevy silverado 1500, you have come to the right place. A cold air intake is an excellent after-market replacement for your car’s air intake system.
Also, it is a perfect addition to your vehicle to help you achieve that extra performance.
Usually, the intake supplies fresh and cooler air that is oxygen-rich to your engine, thus increasing the gas mileage, horsepower, and torque.
If you want extra filtration, you should be willing to help your car attain that by getting a cold air intake.
However, the market is packed with numerous cold air intake brands and picking one can be exhausting.
That is why we have produced a review of some of the best cold air intake for Chevy Silverado 1500 to simplify the process for you.
Continue reading this review and choose a product that matches your needs.
Should I Put a Cold Air Intake on My Silverado?
Silverado cars are famous for having heat problems, especially since their stock air systems are installed close to the radiator fans and the engine.
As a result, the airflow is restricted, which means that the engine receives hot air that it has omitted.
So, getting a cold intake for your Silverado will be the best option. It will help improve acceleration, enhance horsepower, offer better fuel economy, and ensures the engine receives fresh and cooler air.
What is the best cold air Intake for Chevy Silverado 1500?
K&N Cold Air Intake is the best cold air intake since it improves overall performance, including sound, horsepower, torque, towing capabilities, and fuel efficiency.
We also recommend this product for its top-notch materials that makes the intake durable.
Furthermore, the K&N cold air intake is the best cold air intake for Chevy Silverado as it beats the OEM product in every aspect.
Besides, the brand is well-known for producing high-quality cold air intakes that make a difference.
Top 10 Best Cold Air Intake for Chevy Silverado 1500 Reviews
Below is a list of the best cold intake for Chevy Silverado 1500 products, features, pros, and cons.
01. K&N 63-3082 Cold Air Intake Kit – Overall Best Cold Air Intake for Chevy Silverado 1500
Our top product is the K&N Cold Air Intake Kit for several reasons.
Firstly, this product is compatible with various vehicles, including Chevy Silverado 1500 and it can fit 2014 to 2020 Chevy models, GMC, or Cadillac vehicles such as Suburban Tahoe, Yukon, Escalade, etc.
Secondly, this cold air intake can increase the vehicle’s horsepower with up to 50% guaranteed more airflow than the OEM air intake.
Also, the GM cold air intake 2020 Silverado (K&N brand air intake) kit is also sure to increase the car’s torque and enhance towing capabilities and the driving experience.
Additionally, the K&N cold intake will improve the engine sound of your Chevy Silverado 1500. So, you will get to hear a quiet yet satisfying growl whenever you are driving.
Besides, this product includes an easy-to-install bolt system, which will take about 60 minutes or less for the process to be complete.
The package includes detailed step-by-step instructions for when installing the cold intake.
Most importantly, the kit includes air filters made of four to six layers of oiled cotton gauze.
The oiled filters trap small contaminants, hence, enhancing the engine performance. Also, this filter can run up to 100,000 miles, giving you relief from any maintenance.
Highlighted Features
- Fits 2014 to 2020 Chevy, GMC, and Cadillac
- 09 x 15.51 x 14.49 inches
- Dyno-tested
- Easy installation
- 4–6-layer oiled cotton air filters
Pros
- Easy to install and maintain
- Sounds good when driving
- Boosts horsepower and towing capabilities
- Improves acceleration and throttle response
- High-quality materials for durability
Cons
- Some parts are made of plastic, which can break easily
- A little bit expensive
02. Spectre 9006 Performance Air Intake Kit –Runner Up Cold Intake
If you are looking for something affordable yet high performing, then the Spectre 9006 is the best choice.
It is designed to increase horsepower and towing capabilities and safeguard your engine.
For instance, the product comes with advanced oiled synthetic filter technology, which helps shield your engine from harmful impurities and dirt.
No filter maintenance is necessary until after every 100,000 miles.
Aside from performance, the sound difference is another aspect that you will notice. The Spectre 9006 improves the engine sound guaranteeing a quiet and safe driving experience.
Besides, no drilling will be required when mounting the product on your Chevy Silverado 1500.
Instead, the Spectre 9006 comes in bolt-on form, and you will only need a few simple tools for the installation process.
In short, installation is easy, and will only take a few minutes to complete.
Spectre 9006 is the best cold intake for 5.3 Vortec, 2014 to 2019 Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac cars.
Such models compatible with this cold intake include Silverado 1500, Yukon, Escalade, and Tahoe.
Highlighted Features
- Dyno-tested
- Fits 2014 to 2019 Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac
- Advanced oiled synthetic filter
- Material: Stainless steel
- Polished aluminum intake tubing
Pros
- Simple to install
- Affordable price
- High quality
- Great looking
Cons
- The instructions are not entirely clear.
03. SuperFastRacing 4-inch Cold Intake – Best Value for your Money
SuperFastRacing 4-inch cold air intake is suitable for various car models, including 1999 to 2006 GMC, Chevy V8 4.8l, 5.3l, and 6.0l, and Silverado 1500, 2500, and 3500.
Also, it is best cold intake for 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500.
For those who want extra power at a decent price, then the SuperFastRacing intake is the choice.
This short RAM intake comes with a reasonable design, which includes a larger diameter to encourage more airflow.
Moreover, this product will not only guard your engine but is made of renewable materials to help protect the environment as well.
Besides, the SuperFastRacing intake is durable thanks to its carbon-black powder coating, which ensures that the product looks good for a long time.
The filters are reusable and can be washed after thousands of miles. So, you will not have to worry about regular maintenance.
These filters will help draw enough cold air to the engine leading to better throttle response, a higher horsepower, and a smooth driving experience.
SuperFastRacing intake is also easy to install. With the help of the attached instructions, you will be able to install the product in less than an hour.
Highlighted Features
- Carbon-black powder coating
- 69 x 11.42 x 7.09 inches
- Fits 1999-2006 GMC, Chevy V8, Silverado 1500
- Material: Alloy steel
- Increases 8% to 10% horsepower and 6% to 10% torque
Pros
- Highly efficient
- Value for your money
- Easy to install
- Sounds much better
Cons
- Instructions are not detailed enough
04. AFe Power Momentum GT 54-74104 – Best Oiled Air Filter and Quality Design
Advanced Flow Engineering (aFe Power) GT 54-74104 is a direct bolt-on kit that is easy to install with no drilling necessary.
With all the high-tech components included in this product, you can be assured of high performance as well as better towing strength.
Afe GT 54-74104 intake is much better than the factory one with up to 35% more airflow. It adds 12 horsepower to your vehicle and up to 15 lbs of torque power.
In addition, the filters consist of five layers of oiled cotton gauze, which is washable after some time. These filters work flawlessly in ensuring maximum airflow and protecting the engine from harmful contaminants.
Another lovable aspect of this cold intake is the 18-gauge heat shield, which sits on the factory air box perfectly. Thus, ensuring that the engine receives cool and fresh air to run smoothly.
Afe power momentum GT 54-74104 is the best cold air intake for Silverado 1500 and Sierra.
Highlighted Features
- 5 layered oiled air filter
- Heat shield
- Aluminum tube with black powder coating
- 12 additional horsepower and 15lbs of torque
Pros
- Quick and simple to install
- Sounds amazing
- Excellent design
- Increased throttle response
Cons
- Sits on the factory air box loosely at times
05. MooSun 4 inches Performance Cold Intake – Best Easy Installation
If you need a cold air intake that works pretty well to improve your engine’s torque and efficiency, then this MooSun intake kit is the way to go.
With this cold intake, you will enjoy an increased horsepower of 8 to 10% and 6 to 10% torque power.
Moreover, this kit will make a big difference to your car’s performance including improved fuel economy and acceleration.
MooSun 4 inches’ cold intake comes with everything you need for the installation process. That includes a steel heat shield, a manual, and an intake tube.
The steel heat shield features a carbon-black powder coating for a durable product.
Unlike the other products mentioned above, this intake kit consists of multiple dry air filters instead of oil filters. However, the dry filters are still washable and reusable.
You will need to check it after every 5,000 or up to 100,000 miles to see if the filter needs any washing.
Such components included in this kit as couplers, air filters, and tube seals are made with premium silicone rubber.
The latter ensures that these components do not crack easily and can handle extreme temperatures.
MooSun 4 inches’ performance cold intake fits a wide variety of cars such as 1999 to 2006 Chevy Silverado 1500 and 2500, 2001 to 2006 GMC, and 2002 to 2006 Cadillac Escalade. It is also the best cold air intake for 2021 Chevy Silverado 1500.
Highlighted Features
- Applicable for 1999-2006 Chevy cars
- Steel heat shield and intake tube included
- Premium silicone couplers, air filters, and tube seals
- Dry air filter
- Material: Alloy steel
Pros
- Good quality
- Increased engine performance
- Installation requires minimal or no skill
- Improve horsepower and acceleration
Cons
- The coupler can be a little big
06. Airaid AIR-201-285 Cold Intake System – Best Dry Air Filter
AIR-201-285 intake system counts as another reliable cold intake kit for several reasons.
For starters, it is the best cold air intake for 5.3 Vortec and is compatible with 2015 to 2020 Chevrolet and GMc vehicles.
Airaid features an aerodynamically engineered tube, which helps increase your car’s performance by reducing heat and increasing airflow.
Also, this kit features a dry synthetic SNYTHAMAX air filter, which offers exceptional protection against debris and dirt.
While at it, it is worth mentioning that the air filter is washable and reusable. Just make sure to check if the filter is dirty and clean it after driving for long.
Furthermore, this AIR-201-285 comes with a single-piece airbox, which adds to the performance. Also, this feature creates perfect airflow, increasing the engine’s horsepower and torque.
In terms of installation, simply mount the bolts accurately on their accurate spots and that is it. Follow the manual and you are good to go.
Highlighted Features
- Reusable dry SYNTHAMAX air filter
- Fits 2015-2020 Chevrolet and GMC models
- Polyethylene intake tube
Pros
- Easy to mount
- Great performance
- Looks decent and sounds good
Cons
- It takes longer to notice any difference in horsepower and gas mileage
07. Volant 152536 PowerCore Cool Air Intake – Best for a Quiet Driving Experience
Volant is a modern yet young company that focuses on creating efficient air systems in the market.
The Volant 152536 is one of their cool air intakes that has been proven to be highly efficient, especially in Chevy Silverado 1500, 2007 Chevy Tahoe, and Cadillac Escalade.
Its filter comes enclosed in a box, which keeps the filter protected from the heat emitted by the engine.
Also, the box keeps the filter safe from dust or any other contaminants, especially when driving through harsh weather conditions.
At the same time, the enclosed box has a large opening that ensures maximum airflow from the engine.
Dust, debris, or other harmful impurities cannot enter the air tube, thanks to the 5-layer oiled cotton filter.
This ensures that only fresh air can flow through the engine, which enhances its performance. Besides, the filter will last up to 100,000 miles where you can clean it and reuse it.
Volant 152536 is a reliable cool intake that provides torque and horsepower that is like the OEM product.
No skills are needed for installing this part to your vehicle. But do not forget to follow the instructions in the manual or from the manufacturer’s website for the best results.
Highlighted Features
- Five layers of oiled cotton filter (washable)
- Like OEM product
- Enclosed air box
- Custom-designed for Chevy Silverado 1500, 2007 Chevy Tahoe, 2008 Cadillac Escalade
- Stainless steel clamps
Pros
- Installation takes less than an hour
- Contains high-quality materials
- Better sound and improved acceleration
Cons
- You may need to drill another hole at the bottom of the air box
08. OBuyTo 4-Inch Performance Cold Air Intake – Best for Increased Engine Performance
OBuyTo cold intake makes a great addition to your car as it improves the engine’s efficiency and towing capabilities.
It fits perfectly several car models such as Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2002-2006 Cadillac Escalade with 5.3l or 6.0l V8 engine, 2002-2006 Avalanche 1500 that has 5.3L V8 engine, and 1999-2006 GMC Sierra models.
You can find more information about the vehicles that are compatible with this product from the manufacturer’s website.
If you choose this product, you will get to enjoy amazing features to make your engine effective.
Additionally, the cold intake also improves fuel economy with up to 65% increased flow. Increased 8-10% horsepower and 6-10% torque are also other benefits that will give a boost to your truck.
On the other hand, this intake will smoothen and straighten airflow under the car’s hood. The filters are easy to maintain and can last up to 100,000 miles before any cleaning is required.
Highlighted Features
- Fits Chevy Silverado 1500 and 2500, 2002-2006 Avalanche 1500, and some GMC models
- Increases 8-10% horsepower and 6-10% torque
- Material: Alloy steel
- 17.09 x 13.07 x 7.52 inches
- Includes a steel heat shield
- Includes a high-flow air filter
Pros
- Fits perfectly into place depending on the car model
- Affordable yet great value for the price
- Improves horsepower and torque significantly
- Very easy to install
Cons
- Problems with fixing the heat shield
09. AIR-201-785 Cold Intake System – Best for Increased Fuel Economy
Another Airaid product to make the list is the AIR-201-785 cold intake system. Like the AIR-201-285, this one too is a reliable product that is guaranteed to improve your truck’s performance.
Airaid cold intake systems are designed to improve the airflow of your engine, resulting in cooler air.
As a result, this allows the engine to burn fuel efficiently more than before. Besides, the dense polyethylene air tube makes sure that cold air flows all the time.
With this AIR-201-785, you will also benefit from the high-performance reusable filters.
The dry SYNTHAMAX air filters trap any harmful contaminants and ensure that the airflow is top-quality.
“Note that these dry synthetic filters are not as effective as the oiled ones and regular cleaning will be required. Also, contaminants can get through the filters and into the throttle body.”
Additionally, the AIR-201-785 is compatible with not only the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 but also a large number of car models. These include other car models such as 2014 to 2020 Chevrolet and GMC vehicles including Suburban, Tahoe, Sierra, and Yukon.
Another reason that makes this cold intake reliable is the single piece airbox design.
The latter ensures perfect airflow, which adds to the performance, giving the engine more horsepower and torque.
Installation is also simple as all you need to do is to mount the bolts accurately as per the instructions provided.
Highlighted Features
- Single-piece air box
- Dry synthetic air filter
- Compatible with 2014 to 2020 Chevrolet and GMC cars
- Polyethylene intake pipe and stainless-steel clamps
Pros
- The setup process is simple and takes about 30 minutes
- Improves fuel economy
- A high-quality air tube to increases the performance
Cons
- The dry air filter is not as good as the factory one
10. Top10 Racing 4 Inches Cold Air Intake – Best Affordable
Our final, yet still effective product on our list is the Top10 Racing 4-inch cold air intake. It is designed to increase both the horsepower and torque of your car up to 8-10% and 6-10% respectively.
Top10 Racing cold intake includes a heat shield, which has a carbon-black powder coating that enhances its looks and longevity.
The purpose of this heat shield is to protect the air filter from dust and debris as well as to keep hot air away from the intake.
Moreover, the air intake will help draw in more cold air to your car’s system. In turn, this will result in better throttle response and increased horsepower.
No professional is needed to install this product on your car. Instead, the package includes everything you need for the process making it simple for you such as an intake tube, coupler, lock nuts, and hose clamps.
However, it is worth noting that no instructions are included. So, you may need to find them online or follow a video.
Highlighted Features
- Carbon-black powder-coated heat shield
- Cold intake replacement for 1999-2006 Chevrolet, Avalanche, and Cadillac
- Materials: Alloy steel and rubber
- 5 x 11.5 x 7.5 inches’ package dimensions
- Increases 8-10% horsepower and 6-10% torque
Pros
- Quality and durable materials used
- No skills are needed for installing
- Looks and sounds great
Cons
- No instructions included
How we Picked Best Cold Air Intake for chevy Silverado 1500
Proper research is essential before purchasing the best cold intake for Chevy Silverado 1500. You cannot just pick any item randomly as you may find that it is not the perfect fit for your car.
That is why you should consider the following factors to get the best out of your money. These factors will help you decide which cold intake is best for your Chevy Silverado as well as your needs.
Compatibility
For starters, you need to identify the right cold air intake that is compatible with your car. Remember that air intake manufacturers create products meant for specific car types, years, and models.
And if you buy the wrong part, it will not fit. So, when you are searching for one, then verify that it is compatible with your Chevy Silverado 1500 model.
Filter
A filter is a vital part of any cold intake kit. It prevents any dirt or other contaminants from entering the engine and creating problems for the system.
As a result, when searching for a cold intake for Chevy Silverado 1500, then do not forget to check the air filter and its reliability.
Air filters come in several types such as dry filters and oil filters. Other forms include paper filters, synthetic filters, and cotton filters. All these filters are effective in restricting any impurities from going into the engine.
Dry filters are usually made of layers of paper and sometimes cotton. They can restrict the smallest contaminants easily.
Due to these tiny openings, the dry air filters are known to reduce the airflow. If you need little performance from your engine, then these dry filters are the best.
On the other hand, oil filters are made of cotton and a small amount of oil. The oil works well in trapping small dirt.
Besides, this filter has wider openings than the dry filter and is highly efficient. If you want maximum performance from your engine for towing purposes, then go for oil filters.
Size
Another key factor is size. Make sure to look at the engine space and how much room you will need for the cold intake.
Just remember that choosing the wrong size of the Silverado cold intake can mess up the truck’s performance.
Price
Most importantly, do not forget to check the price of the cold intake. However, just because your budget is tight does not mean that you should go for cheap and low-quality products.
Make sure that the product you wish to buy is not only within your budget but is also worth your money.
Durability
You certainly do not want to spend a lot of money on your cold intake only for it to last longer than expected.
So, before purchasing one, then examine the product and ensure it is high quality.
Check customer reviews online and confirm what other users are saying about the product’s durability. It is only through thorough research that you can be sure if the cold intake is durable or not.
Easy to Install
If you want to save money as well as your time, go for cold air intake that is easy to install. One way you can find out about this is by checking what other users have said about the installation process.
An easy-to-install product means no visit to the mechanic, so you can mount it by yourself at home. It will also give you some experience and enhance your “car fixing” skills.
Heat Resistant
As its name suggests, cold air intake should always be protected from heat. So, when searching for the best cold intake for Chevy Silverado 1500, then ensure that it is heat resistant.
The air filter keeps your engine fresh and cool. And as you know, heat can be harmful to your engine. That is why you should go for a cold intake that is heat resistant.
You can also protect the filter by covering it with a full enclosure box or by using a heat guard.
Water-Resistant
Another factor worth considering is if the cold intake is water-resistant. This can be important in keeping the water from entering the engine, especially when driving in a rainstorm.
Easy Maintenance
Lastly, confirm whether the product you intend to buy is easy to maintain. For instance, some cold intakes do not require any filter cleaning until 100,000 miles.
You can find such information from the manufacturer’s website or through customer reviews.
Different Types of Cold Intake
There are three common types of cold air transfers in the market. Each of these intakes has its pros and cons, so choose the right one for your vehicle.
True Cold Air Intake:
It is one of the best cold intake types that has top-notch performance.
Additionally, this intake is known to improve fuel consumption and engine combustion and elevates the vehicle’s horsepower.
However, it is quite difficult to install and might take more space.
Short Ram System:
For those who are looking for a cold intake that is like the factory one, then this is the one. It is affordable, can fit in small spaces, and is easy to install.
Unfortunately, it has a few drawbacks such as it has less torque and less horsepower, unlike the true cold air intake.
Ram air intake:
this cold intake has a longer tube unlike the other two, and the air filter is found at the back.
Also, it has high performance as it increases combustion in the engine, which leads to more power.
[FAQs] On Best Chevy Silverado Cold Air Intake
01. Does a cold air intake make a difference?
Cold air intake will improve airflow and reduce the air temperature. Also,
- It will increase the performance of your vehicle.
- By introducing more cold air to the combustion process, the engine will be able to burn fuel more efficiently.
- And this will also enhance the car’s horsepower.
So, the answer is yes. Cold air intakes will certainly help make a difference by boosting airflow, acceleration, and overall vehicle performance.
But note that you need to choose high-quality cold intakes if you want to notice a difference in your car.
02. Does a cold air intake add HP?
Yes, cold air intake is known to not only improve engine airflow but also increase the horsepower of any vehicle up to 5 to 20 ponies.
- Important note: Note that this number will depend on the model of your car as well as the type of cold intake you get.
03. Is a cold air intake worth it on a truck?
Yes, cold air intake can be used in any car whether a mid-size vehicle or a truck. They can be used to improve
- The fuel efficiency
- Performance
- Horsepower
- Airflow
04. Do you need a tune with a cold air intake?
No, you do not need to tune your car after installing a cold air intake.
- Remember that tuning your vehicle is an expensive process, even if it will increase the airflow and oxygen.
- Besides, cold air intake is affordable and easy to upgrade.
- It will work well without a tune, and it will not cause any damage to your car if it is not tuned.
05. Is a short or long cold air intake better?
Both these cold intakes do the same thing, and the core construction is pretty the same. However, they have some features that make them different from each other.
Instance 1:
For instance, short cold air intake is cheaper and keeps the intake route as short as possible. As a result, they increase the volume and speed of air coming in.
But the short ram intakes have a drawback – there is a possibility of heat soaking up due to its closeness to the engine.
In short, they tend to heat up to a point whereby the air they release to the engine is hot. And this may hurt the performance of the engine.
Instance 2:
On the other hand, long cold intakes have longer piped than short ram intakes. Since they are longer, you can expect more twists and bends and you can get creative on how to place the cold intake.
Additionally, thanks to its long design, the air filter is placed far away from the engine. Thus, the intake can draw cooler and oxygen-rich air that increases the car’s performance.
So, if you are still wondering which intake is better between short and long, then the long cold air intake is much better in terms of placement and effectiveness.
06. Does Installing An Aftermarket Cold Air intake Make Any Differences in Your Vehicles?(Great Video!)
Final Thoughts
Deciding to install the best cold intake for Chevy Silverado 1500 will be one of the most effective and rewarding adjustments you could make to your car.
From increased air flow rate to improved fuel efficiency and gas mileage, there are a lot of benefits you can enjoy from a cold intake.
In this review, we have answered everything you need to know about cold intake for Chevy Silverado 1500 including the top products in the market.
Thus, use this guide to choose one that suits your needs and your car.