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AEM Induction Systems News Improve Low & High RPM Power on the Acura TLX with an AEM Cold Air Intake
The AEM 21-801C cold air intake boosts horsepower and torque on the 2015-2016 Acura TLX 3.5LMost midsize luxury car buyers don't even think about an Acura TLX, until one blows past them on the road. The previous Acura TL was rather "loudly" styled, but the 2015-2016 Acura TLX wears more handsome, restrained styling. However, beneath those flowing lines, lies a powertrain that can go toe-to-toe with the best from Europe, Asia, and America. The Acura 3.5L V6 serves up 290-hp and 267 lb-ft of torque with a velvety rage. To keep it all under control, Acura employs the P-AWS rear wheel steering system on FWD models, or the SH-AWD system that uses engine torque to steer you through curves. Combine the TLX's power with the handling tech, and you get a confident sleeper that can hustle you to work with a smile on your face. And now you can add an estimated 12-hp with an AEM 21-801C cold air intake system.
Closeup view of the AEM 21-801C cold air intake installed on a 2015 Acura TLX 3.5L The Acura TLX 3.5L V6 uses a lot of cutting edge technology to make its power delivery so smooth. But no matter how advanced it is, this motor still makes horsepower the old fashioned way: Air comes in through the intake, then gets mixed with fuel inside the cylinders where a spark ignites the mixture and an explosion consumes the oxygen. If you want to create more horsepower, then you have to increase the amount of oxygen going into the motor. This additional catalyst will allow the fuel to burn hotter, which releases more energy/horsepower from the same amount of fuel. It also helps your Acura to make more power/torque at low RPM's, giving you faster throttle response and a deeper, more menacing engine note.
To make all of this happen, the AEM 21-801C cold air intake system ditches the restrictive stock intake system in favor of a high-flow arrangement. This consists of a wide diameter aluminum intake tube that's been mandrel bent to reduce turbulence and airflow restriction. It's capped by an oversized AEM DryFlow Filter that can flow considerably more air than the stock paper air filter, and the unique synthetic material is able to remove up to 99% of airborne contaminants. This dirt is then held in place for up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is required (depending on driving conditions). The filter is also repositioned just behind the drivers side fender to take advantage of the cold air rushing up into the engine bay.
Turn your Acura TLX into a 3-Series, A4, C-Class and IS killer, with an AEM 21-801C cold air intake In addition to the extra power at low RPMs, the AEM 21-801C cold air intake system is able increase airflow when the VTEC system kicks in, which results in even more power as the revs increase. To verify all of this, we installed an AEM 21-801C intake system on a 2015 Acura TLX 3.5L FWD, and dyno testing revealed an estimated increase of 12 horsepower and 11 lb-ft of torque.
AEM 21-801C was designed to fit the following vehicles:2016 ACURA TLX 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models 2015 ACURA TLX 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
Feel free to PM me with questions! We're as excited as you guys are!
Last edited by ExcelerateRep; 01-06-2017 at 04:34 PM.
Reason: grammar
I have installed it! I still need to drive it a bit more, but it seems like its a bit quicker in the top end (obviously) but also quieter than the K&N since its farther away from the engine. It will probably be better after a tune.
What can anyone tell us about the stock ram air port's functionality after this install? Our vehicles are designed to make use of this direct access to high flowing air, can AEM or any professionals comment on why the port was excluded from use? Would this CAI not provide better air flow if the ram air was ported to it when the vehicle is in motion?
Lets talk about it... You can see the ram air port in the bottom right corner of the first pic IntegraVT posted.
I have installed it! I still need to drive it a bit more, but it seems like its a bit quicker in the top end (obviously) but also quieter than the K&N since its farther away from the engine. It will probably be better after a tune.
Did you need to remove the bumper in order to complete the installation?
What can anyone tell us about the stock ram air port's functionality after this install? Our vehicles are designed to make use of this direct access to high flowing air, can AEM or any professionals comment on why the port was excluded from use? Would this CAI not provide better air flow if the ram air was ported to it when the vehicle is in motion?
Lets talk about it... You can see the ram air port in the bottom right corner of the first pic IntegraVT posted.
Hey take a look at my thread what I did, i removed that air port it only had 2 little holes for bringing in air. now i have a 3 inch tubing that leads to the outside connecting to the sock box with a KN. throttle is great and in the top end on highway its awesome.
LOL that is my car in the picture. They used it as a test vehicle. I have included the actual dyno charts they produced while the car was at their facility in Riverside CA.
I installed this intake on my 16' TLX SH-AWD and noticed an increase in bottom end and when Vtec engages. No increase in noise under light acceleration, great throaty noise under moderate acceleration and screams when Vtec engages. The only thing I noticed that was odd was sometimes in 4th gear around 6000rpm all the power drops off (vtec disengages) and slowly climbs in speed until it shifts into the next gear. Not sure if anyone else had this issue. Other then that it is great and I would highly recommend to anyone.
I installed this intake on my 16' TLX SH-AWD and noticed an increase in bottom end and when Vtec engages. No increase in noise under light acceleration, great throaty noise under moderate acceleration and screams when Vtec engages. The only thing I noticed that was odd was sometimes in 4th gear around 6000rpm all the power drops off (vtec disengages) and slowly climbs in speed until it shifts into the next gear. Not sure if anyone else had this issue. Other then that it is great and I would highly recommend to anyone.
Thanks for the little review TLXlover! That isn't something we've heard of before. Although it doesn't really sound like an intake related issue to me (especially if it's only happening occasionally at a specific range in 4th) I'd still check the lines running around it to make sure something didn't get unplugged during the install. If nothing is out of place perhaps a OBD scanner will provide some insight if there was an issue starting somewhere else. Is there a shudder/shake or does it simply lose power?
Thanks for the little review TLXlover! That isn't something we've heard of before. Although it doesn't really sound like an intake related issue to me (especially if it's only happening occasionally at a specific range in 4th) I'd still check the lines running around it to make sure something didn't get unplugged during the install. If nothing is out of place perhaps a OBD scanner will provide some insight if there was an issue starting somewhere else. Is there a shudder/shake or does it simply lose power?
I noticed it the other day in 3rd as well. It basically drops all power and slowly gains speed until it shifts into the next gear. Seems to happen in the last 500rpm and I usually upshift so that in the next year Vtec is still engaged. It doesnt always happen so I'm not sure what would be causing it. It's not throwing any codes though and seems to only happen with it's been running for a while. Could it be getting too hot and the engine cutting back because of air temp through the MAF or some other mechanism?
I noticed it the other day in 3rd as well. It basically drops all power and slowly gains speed until it shifts into the next gear. Seems to happen in the last 500rpm and I usually upshift so that in the next year Vtec is still engaged. It doesnt always happen so I'm not sure what would be causing it. It's not throwing any codes though and seems to only happen with it's been running for a while. Could it be getting too hot and the engine cutting back because of air temp through the MAF or some other mechanism?
I forgot to mention that I checked everything and it all seems to be tight. Even readjusted the position because it was too close to the plastic shroud around the tire.
I installed mine as well. I bought it locally off another TLX owner but it was missing this rubber mount, bolt so I had to position it in a way where it would fit more snug.
I noticed the above mentioned issue to when there is a drop in power, I figured its because that the car is not tuned for the intake. Regardless, I am still happy with it. It sounds very stock at idle and moderate throttle but very aggressive when Vtech engages.
AEM Induction Systems News Improve Low & High RPM Power on the Acura TLX with an AEM Cold Air Intake
The AEM 21-801C cold air intake boosts horsepower and torque on the 2015-2016 Acura TLX 3.5LMost midsize luxury car buyers don't even think about an Acura TLX, until one blows past them on the road. The previous Acura TL was rather "loudly" styled, but the 2015-2016 Acura TLX wears more handsome, restrained styling. However, beneath those flowing lines, lies a powertrain that can go toe-to-toe with the best from Europe, Asia, and America. The Acura 3.5L V6 serves up 290-hp and 267 lb-ft of torque with a velvety rage. To keep it all under control, Acura employs the P-AWS rear wheel steering system on FWD models, or the SH-AWD system that uses engine torque to steer you through curves. Combine the TLX's power with the handling tech, and you get a confident sleeper that can hustle you to work with a smile on your face. And now you can add an estimated 12-hp with an AEM 21-801C cold air intake system.
Closeup view of the AEM 21-801C cold air intake installed on a 2015 Acura TLX 3.5L The Acura TLX 3.5L V6 uses a lot of cutting edge technology to make its power delivery so smooth. But no matter how advanced it is, this motor still makes horsepower the old fashioned way: Air comes in through the intake, then gets mixed with fuel inside the cylinders where a spark ignites the mixture and an explosion consumes the oxygen. If you want to create more horsepower, then you have to increase the amount of oxygen going into the motor. This additional catalyst will allow the fuel to burn hotter, which releases more energy/horsepower from the same amount of fuel. It also helps your Acura to make more power/torque at low RPM's, giving you faster throttle response and a deeper, more menacing engine note.
To make all of this happen, the AEM 21-801C cold air intake system ditches the restrictive stock intake system in favor of a high-flow arrangement. This consists of a wide diameter aluminum intake tube that's been mandrel bent to reduce turbulence and airflow restriction. It's capped by an oversized AEM DryFlow Filter that can flow considerably more air than the stock paper air filter, and the unique synthetic material is able to remove up to 99% of airborne contaminants. This dirt is then held in place for up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is required (depending on driving conditions). The filter is also repositioned just behind the drivers side fender to take advantage of the cold air rushing up into the engine bay.
Turn your Acura TLX into a 3-Series, A4, C-Class and IS killer, with an AEM 21-801C cold air intake In addition to the extra power at low RPMs, the AEM 21-801C cold air intake system is able increase airflow when the VTEC system kicks in, which results in even more power as the revs increase. To verify all of this, we installed an AEM 21-801C intake system on a 2015 Acura TLX 3.5L FWD, and dyno testing revealed an estimated increase of 12 horsepower and 11 lb-ft of torque.
AEM 21-801C was designed to fit the following vehicles:2016 ACURA TLX 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models 2015 ACURA TLX 3.5L V6 Fuel Injection - All Models
Feel free to PM me with questions! We're as excited as you guys are!
AEM has only confirmed fitment on the 2015-2017 TLX 3.5L, so it might, but I can't tell you for sure.
The inlet on the J37 throttle body is larger then the J35, so if you really want to run it, you will need a reducer coupler so everything can connect properly. If the tubing routes the same way on the 4G TL as the TLXs then there should be able to get it on the car.
That being said, sensors may not read/connect correctly due to the improperly sized tubing, and the fact it was developed around a smaller throttle body means you won't see as much of a performance increase out of it. I'd say your best off with HPSs w/ the little heat shield, or the K&N drop in panel if heat soak is a concern.
Last edited by ExcelerateRep; 11-02-2017 at 11:20 AM.
I definitely noticed the power drop off in 4th gear as well. I put the short ram back in for a bit, and vtec is still engaged in 4th compared to the cold air. What does this mean?
With the third report of lost power (and the same symptoms) it only seemed appropriate to call AEM and ask them if this was an issue that they had heard of before. The lady I spoke to on the phone said they haven't had any reports of issues with the 21-801C, and that means they really don't have any insight or a guide for trouble shooting (past double checking all connections/installation of course).
I'd like to help everyone get this straightened out, but if AEM hasn't received any claims there really isn't much that can be done. The lady I spoke to on the phone had asked if everyone who has reported the issue so far (sinistah89, space_boy, TLXlover) could call in and report the issue to AEM as well, this way their performance division can start looking into the issue and figure out a solution!
AEM's number is 800-992-3000, and if anyone has questions please feel free to send me a PM.
AEM has only confirmed fitment on the 2015-2017 TLX 3.5L, so it might, but I can't tell you for sure.
The inlet on the J37 throttle body is larger then the J35, so if you really want to run it, you will need a reducer coupler so everything can connect properly. If the tubing routes the same way on the 4G TL as the TLXs then there should be able to get it on the car.
That being said, sensors may not read/connect correctly due to the improperly sized tubing, and the fact it was developed around a smaller throttle body means you won't see as much of a performance increase out of it. I'd say your best off with HPSs w/ the little heat shield, or the K&N drop in panel if heat soak is a concern.
I'm going to order this from you this Friday!!! No shipping?
AEM has only confirmed fitment on the 2015-2017 TLX 3.5L, so it might, but I can't tell you for sure.
The inlet on the J37 throttle body is larger then the J35, so if you really want to run it, you will need a reducer coupler so everything can connect properly. If the tubing routes the same way on the 4G TL as the TLXs then there should be able to get it on the car.
That being said, sensors may not read/connect correctly due to the improperly sized tubing, and the fact it was developed around a smaller throttle body means you won't see as much of a performance increase out of it. I'd say your best off with HPSs w/ the little heat shield, or the K&N drop in panel if heat soak is a concern.
Mine is a 2016 TLX SH-AWD and seems to fit fine. The only thing I notice that mine is different from the above picture is that the air filter sits directly on the plastic shroud below. I may try to readjust.
With the third report of lost power (and the same symptoms) it only seemed appropriate to call AEM and ask them if this was an issue that they had heard of before. The lady I spoke to on the phone said they haven't had any reports of issues with the 21-801C, and that means they really don't have any insight or a guide for trouble shooting (past double checking all connections/installation of course).
I'd like to help everyone get this straightened out, but if AEM hasn't received any claims there really isn't much that can be done. The lady I spoke to on the phone had asked if everyone who has reported the issue so far (sinistah89, space_boy, TLXlover) could call in and report the issue to AEM as well, this way their performance division can start looking into the issue and figure out a solution!
AEM's number is 800-992-3000, and if anyone has questions please feel free to send me a PM.
Good luck, let me know where everyone ends up!
-Craig
Criag, thanks for calling. It never occurred to me as I assumed it just needed to be tuned. I plan on tuning as soon as my warranty is up and I have added a few other parts. I'll call today and see what they say.
I wanted to share with everyone the risk of installing an intake and the headache I recently dealt with when my engine failed. Although through no fault of my CAI my engine had a mechanical failure in the 3rd cylinder connecting rod bearing. Acura only said that it was a mechanical failure but because of the CAI it took nearly a week to diagnose. The service advisor said if I didn't have the intake on the car then they would have put under warranty no questions asked. Since I had an intake they had to work with their Honda engineering division to determine the exact cause. At first they thought it was hydro lock but after researching I knew it wasn't especially since it hadn't rained in over 2 weeks and the amount of water would be immense. I also wanted to share the warning signs of your engine failing in that manner. The day before my car developed a slight knock which was in the block. Not knowing what would happen and not being able to bring it in right away I drove for another day. On my way to work and almost directly in front of the dealer I lost compression and the car started bucking and was not smooth at all. My engine light started flashing and about a million other sensors went off. Luckily I was only a minute away from the dealer so I decided to just drive there. The service advisor was in awe that my car only had 40k on it! I don't want to scare anyone away from getting a CAI but I would assess the level of risk you are willing to assume should your car be under warranty and if you can deal with the dealer tearing apart your engine not knowing if it will be covered under warranty.
Thanks for the link. I was aware of it and Acura was actually really good at following their procedures to "protect themselves and me". The investigating part takes a long time and was very stressful. All is fixed now and working like it was before. I should have mentioned they covered it all under warranty and replaced the entire block. All said and done it would have cost me 10k. Glad I didn't have to foot the bill for that one!
Criag, thanks for calling. It never occurred to me as I assumed it just needed to be tuned. I plan on tuning as soon as my warranty is up and I have added a few other parts. I'll call today and see what they say.
No trouble at all, I'm curious what's causing it as well! Sorry to hear about your car troubles, and especially at such low mileage! I'm glad to hear everything got straightened out however, dealerships can be difficult, but that's a bill no one should be stuck with.
The intakes don't throw (or at least shouldn't throw) a check engine light, and they were developed around a stock car, so there's no real need for a tune unless you're trying to get every last bit of power out of it!
Edit: And thanks for the fitment info on the AWD!
Last edited by ExcelerateRep; 11-08-2017 at 04:20 PM.
I called, and they said to use a MAF sensor cleaner to clean the MAF as a first step....I dont think thats the problem, but all of you should call as well. I dont have the AEM on right now so I cant really check.
It sounds like you had a bad misfire tlxlover..I had one a few thousand miles ago and replaced the spark plugs.
I called, and they said to use a MAF sensor cleaner to clean the MAF as a first step....I dont think thats the problem, but all of you should call as well. I dont have the AEM on right now so I cant really check.
It sounds like you had a bad misfire tlxlover..I had one a few thousand miles ago and replaced the spark plugs.
So I called AEM today and spoke with their warranty department after speaking with someone in customer service. The guy I spoke to seemed to know a lot about Honda and even had one installed on his CR-V and experienced this happening. He said that VTEC is very touchy and requires perfect conditions to engage. He said check the oil level at the time it happens, although I tend to go a little overboard and change my oil at 5k. Told him that I took the intake off for the winter because were I live we get very slushy snow and I didn't want it building up around the filter and have not experienced this issue with VTEC since it has come off. Can someone please check their oil level that this is happening to? He did not mention anything about MAF cleaning but went on to tell me about the numerous Honda's he has had with VTEC and assures me its likely not the intake. He did give me his extension and said to call him in the spring when I put the intake back on and took a personal interest as a Honda lover. He also mentioned that for VTEC to engage properly it needs proper oil levels and good fuel (ie supreme) etc.. and that it could be anything from bad VTEC cylinoids to metal shavings. Having just had my entire block replaced due to a thrown connecting rod bearing I think they would have picked up on other engine problems when it was ripped apart.
The first person I spoke to said there was no other complaints or technical data on this intake. So I thought that was curious seeing as I'm not the only one that has called.
Like I said, someone having this issue please try to check your oil level and let me know if this made a difference for you and call AEM.
01-06-2017, 04:33 PM
