Part two of our 10th-gen Civic series! If you missed part one, start with our handling-per-dollar hero—the Rear Sway Bar—right here: Best First Mod: RSB + Springs.
Why a Cold Air Intake on a CivicX?
A quality cold air intake (CAI) smooths airflow, reduces restriction, and pulls cooler air from outside the hot engine bay. On turbo models (1.5T and Type R), that cooler, less-restricted air helps the turbo breathe easier—translating to better response and a little extra grin in the mid-range. On the 2.0L NA trims, you’ll notice crisper throttle and a throatier note without daily-driver drama.
Which Intake Fits My Trim?
Pick your flavor (all links open in a new tab, and include the SKU for easy searching):
2.0L Naturally Aspirated (LX/EX/LX-P, etc.)
- Injen Cold Air Intake (Black) (SKU: INJSP1574BLK) — Traditional aluminum CAI that relocates the filter for cooler air and a clean, OEM-plus install vibe.
- K&N AirCharger Intake (16–17 2.0L) (SKU: KNN63-3517) — Rotomolded tube with a washable, reusable filter and heat shield.
1.5T Non-Si (EX-T/EX/EX-L/Sport/Touring, etc.)
- Injen Cold Air Intake (Wrinkle Red) (SKU: INJSP1573WR) — Tuned aluminum CAI that places the filter behind the bumper for cooler inlet temps.
- K&N AirCharger Intake (1.5T) (SKU: KNN63-3516) — HDPE tube, large conical filter, and heat shield for a tidy fit and serviceable filtration.
2017–2020 Civic Si (1.5T)
- Injen Evolution Sealed Intake (SKU: INJEVO1501) — Sealed airbox design; Injen reports gains on the Si with this kit. Nice under-hood look and straightforward installation.
2017–2021 Civic Type R (FK8)
- Injen Evolution Sealed Intake (SKU: INJEVO1502) — Sealed CAI tuned for the K20C1. A solid bolt-on that plays well with future mods.
Browse the whole category: Air Intakes.
Install Notes, Tools & PPE
Difficulty: Easy-moderate. Most CAIs are 60–90 minutes with hand tools. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions included in your kit.
What you’ll need
- 1/4" and 3/8" drive ratchets, sockets (8–12mm typical), and extensions
- Flathead & Phillips screwdrivers; nut drivers for hose clamps
- Trim/panel clip tool (for snorkel and airbox fasteners)
- Torque wrench capable of low values (inch-pounds to ~10 ft-lb range)
- Light, fender cover, clean rags, isopropyl/wax-and-grease remover
- PPE: safety glasses, gloves; hearing protection if using power tools
Quick tips
- MAF orientation matters: Keep the MAF sensor clocked exactly as designed. Do not touch the sensing element.
- Clamp technique: Seat couplers fully, align clamps behind bead rolls, and tighten evenly. Avoid over-tightening—crushed couplers = unmetered air leaks.
- Heat management: Reinstall or use the supplied heat shield for repeatable IATs. On turbo cars, cooler air = happier trims.
- Final check: Start the engine and watch for vacuum leaks or MIL. Re-torque after your first heat cycle/drive.
Important Safety & Emissions Notes
- Hydrolock caution: Any CAI that relocates the filter low in the bumper area increases water-ingestion risk. Avoid deep standing water and heavy spray. If you drive in monsoon country, consider a sealed airbox design.
- Emissions/CARB: Check the intake’s emissions status for your state before purchase/installation. Some systems are not legal for sale or use in California on pollution-controlled vehicles.
- Warranty & tuning: These kits are engineered to work with stock ECU calibrations; mixing parts or running oiled filters that contaminate the MAF can cause CELs. When in doubt, consult a pro tuner.
- General shop safety: Work on a cool engine, chock wheels, and keep loose clothing/hair away from belts and fans.
Wrap-Up & Comments
If our first article was “handles now,” this one is “breathes now.” Pair your CAI with that upgraded Rear Sway Bar and quality tires for a ridiculously fun daily that still does Costco runs. Got dyno charts, fuel trims, or "butt-dyno" impressions to share?
Tell us your best intake install tips, and your real-world gains, in the comments below!
