Saw on tv that the fram CAI gives 8-10% MPG increase.1st is this true and second is if it is, is that by itself or combined with an exhaust mod also?

 

Well, you're going to get a LOT of feedback on this one and you could do a search cause these forums are loaded with CAI threads.

Here is my logic FWIW! For starters, look at where your air is being drawn from now, basically the same place as an aftermarket CAI. Secondly, do people living in North Dakota or Canada report better mileage/performance in the winter months? Think about it, there isn't a device on earth that can cool your intake air more then those winters. Whenever I've driven in cold climates I've never noticed a difference in performance.

 

Always be a little skeptical of their claims. I bet you might gain some though.

 

Most likley not enough change to recoup the cost. Additionally, one of the main ingredients of a CAI is a high flow filter, which will just let in more dirt and be harmful to you motor in the long run.

Well there is a clear pattern on filtration ability compared to both flow and the type of filtration media used. The "high performance" cotton gauze and foam filters do not filter as well as some have claimed. I actually received an e-mail from K&N stating their filters filter within 99% of the OEM filters. This may be true, and 1% may not sound like much. I contend that 1% over many miles, may be important. Really, it is up to each individual to decide. The poorer flowing filters, remove more particles, and the better flowing filters remove less particles. If you think about it, that conclusion passes any and all common sense tests, so it is not surprising. There are many that will be shocked by the results, that should not be though. I've used high performance filters in the past, and I might again in the future. At the same time, I know that the stock OEM type filters perform very well in filtration and don't inhibit flow nearly as much as some think. http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/airfilter/airtest3.htm

 

I can definately tell a performance difference in cooller weather. Much more responsive and agressive. I put in a drop in K&N for about $60 and saw a 1 mpg increase, thats about a 6% increase. Surely a full CAI would yeild another 2% but is the extra $150 worth 2% if fuel millage is all you are after. If you have or plan on a bunch of extra mods I could see spending the extra money.

I do agree with raider and I don't see how those CAI are getting a cooler air charge without dropping all the way down to a voided fog light hole, but then you are going to get more trash in your filter and posibly water if you go through any puddles or rain (this is just theary as I have no, nor have I heard any, personal experiance with that type of setup. But even if they are not getting a cooller charge they are going to be less restrictive then going through your stock filter box.