Booker

I just ordered an AEM CAI for my 03 TL-S, and I've seen some posts that make me question it. It's not too late to return it.

Just how much louder does it make the car and when? I don't want all of my neighbors' heads to turn as I come down my block.

Also, someone told me that, even with the bypass valve, I need to be very careful to not go through any "major puddles," or I may blow the engine. How major, if there's any truth to that.

Finally, what gains can I expect from this mod, and are they tangible?

Thanks. As always, I appreciate any advice....

jayhawk815

To answer your first question, it does make our cars considerably louder, but not until the higher RPM's. Normal driving results in little added decibals. Secondly, going through puddles with a CAI is not that risky, with or without the bypass valve. I've driven in pretty heavy downpours and hit some rather large puddles without any negative results. From what other members have said, you pretty much have to either become submerged or atleast heavy a great deal of water spraying directly onto the intake, which shouldn't ever happen with the cover behind the bumper in place. As far as HP gains, don't expect much more than 1-5 additional horsepower. Go with the CAI, you won't regret it.

fsttyms1

to add to this the intake really only makes noise under acceleration and wide open throttle, not normal driving. as for worrying about hydrolocking your engine from a puddle. i wouldnt worry about it. you would have to completly submerge your intake (a puddle "over" a foot deep for some distance) befor it was able to draw in enough water to do damage like blowing your engine. keep the intake and enjoy it!

BIG_KOUT

yea the intake is nothin man, what will piss of ur neighbors is if u added exhaust and 2 12's in the trunk

bug230

there will be a some hissing from the CAI when you are at idol and at WOT it will roar...but nothing nasty. I love mine and I would like to say my car is classy.

Booker

Thanks for the responses. Much appreciated

etxxz

expect more gains from a CAI on your TL-S...close to 10s.

hzm82

CAI gains are in the higher RPM bands, really useless, unless you're redlining it.