Acura TSX 2004-2008: Air Intake Reviews and How-to
Looking for the best intake for your car? Well no need to worry about it, we got you covered.
This article applies to the Acura TSX (2004-2008).
Your engine works like a giant air pump, by ingesting air and expelling exhaust gasses. One of the biggest limitations to your engine's efficiency is fast and how effective it can ingest air as well as expel those exhaust gasses. That leads us to air intakes, as they are one of most popular engine modifications for your Acura. The factory air box is a large plastic unit, designed to muffle noise, often at the expense of power. Aftermarket air filters use custom piping, often made of aluminum, and larger in diameter for smoother and greater air flow, and then paired with a large filter for greater efficiency. In theory, this gives your ride a few extra horses, and more importantly, makes it sound wicked when you're on throttle and accelerating. If this sounds good to you, then read on to learn about installing intakes.
Table of Contents
How to Replace Your Air Intake
Materials Needed
- Phillips screwdriver
- Air filter
Step 1 – Remove the old assembly
The stock filter is held in place by several screws located all around the assembly. It is very easy to remove all of them.
- Loosen the ring holding the tube to the throttle body.
- Disconnect the mass airflow sensor.
- Remove the air box mounting bolts.
- Disconnect the crankcase vacuum tube.
- Replace the coolant bypass hose.
Step 2 – Install the new tubing brackets
There are three places to install the brackets:
- The heater hose mounting bracket
- Heat-shield mounting bracket onto the air box mounting bracket
- Lower front air box mounting location
Figure 2. Heater hose bracket. 
Figure 3. Air box heat-shield front bracket.
Step 3 – Install the new intake
Simply route the new piping into the engine bay.
- Slide the pipe onto the throttle body and secure it using the screw clamp.
- Connect the mass air sensor.
- Install the heat shield with edge trim.
- Mount the filter.
- Install the crank case vent hose.
Featured Video: Accord/TSX K24 Air Intake Installation
Air Intakes Review
Air intake systems are an excellent way to improve the overall engine performance of your car. The factory intake is restrictive for the sake of being quiet, but that's no fun, especially when aftermarket intakes make your engine sound so sweet. We've taken the time to organize and list some of the most popular intake brands available, and make it easier for you to choose what best fits your application.
Please note that the price is based on a 2004 Acura TSX.
K&N |
Injen |
Takeda |
AEM | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Price |
$190 | $250 | $295 | $150 |
Reusable |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Power Gains |
15 hp | 12.9 hp | 15 hp | 10 hp |
Construction |
Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum | Aluminum |
Warranty |
Limited Lifetime | Limited Lifetime | 2 Year | Limited Lifetime |
Best Value: K&N
K&N
Price – $190
Reusable – Yes
Power Gains – Up to 15 hp
Construction – Aluminum
Warranty – Limited Lifetime
It's no secret that K&N is a top producer for air filter intake systems. The systems featured on the TSX chassis have proven to increase performance output throughout the overall engine range. This allows you to feel the gain from as early as 3,000 RPM to when VTEC kicks in. This power has been seen on tuned setups, but even without a proper tuning, these kits have been known to produce anywhere from 6-10 horsepower. With the price also being almost a third less than the other listed producers, K&N takes the cake as the the best valued intake on this list. Recommended for those looking for a reputable and reliable cold air intake upgrade.
Related Video: K&N Intake on TSX
Injen
Price – $250
Reusable – Yes
Power Gains – 12.9 hp
Construction – Aluminum
Warranty – Limited Lifetime
Injen intake systems are known for their loud aggressive sounds due to the aggressive shape of the bends in the piping. Often favored by those looking to be heard before their seen, this intakes are pretty notorious for putting down solid amounts of power. Along with the chance of a modest horsepower increase, torque has been seen to improve up to 10 ft/lbs. Recommended for those looking for a more aggressive sound.
Related Video: Injen Intake on TSX
Takeda
Price – $295
Reusable – Yes
Power Gains – Up to 15 hp
Construction – Aluminum
Warranty – 2 Year
Takeda's intake offering is different from the others, in that it is a "short ram system," where the piping doesn't extend to the behind the front bumper, and locates the filter in the left side of the engine bay. The perk of this is that installation is much easier, and it does not require you to relocate the battery. These models are available in polished aluminum and textured black. Takeda intakes have been known to improve the power output of the TSX engine by up to 15 horsepower. Recommended for those looking for the easiest to install intake.
Related Video: Takeda Intake on TSX
AEM
Price – $150
Reusable – Yes
Power Gains – 10 hp
Construction – Aluminum
Warranty – Limited Lifetime
Owned by K&N, AEM is produced with the same amount of quality and differs more in the availability of products. The intake shown here is a short-ram model. Which, although increases the short range of the engine's powerband, does not offer the same level of performance a true cold air intake can. Still, the product offered is favorable for those looking for a cheaper brand name alternative. Recommended for those who want the option of a modular intake that can be either a short ram or long cold-air style intake.
Related Video: AEM Intake on TSX
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