Tacoma TRD COLD AIR INTAKE Worth It?! (Install DIY, Sound Test, 0-60 Run!)

[@fodera0915]

What about the catback:)

[@JasonExplainsThings]

YES! I want to do the MagnaFlow Overland Exhaust on this and the 4Runner. That would make it have a better sound, maybe add some power, and get the muffler farther away from rocks.

[@trailrunnah8886]

@@JasonExplainsThings I can't imagine either of these would give the 4.0 or 3.5 a better sound. The best sound would be no sound at all, haha. I know at least on the 4.0, a lot of Pro owners complain about the from the TRD exhaust. Personally, I loathe the sound of the 4.0, way too much noise makes it into the cab.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

To each their own. I don't mind the 4.0 in my 4Runner. I like it more than the 3.5 in terms of performance and sound. Gas mileage does stink though.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

For sound though nothing beats my old cars! Love the 5.9L V8 in my old Dodge truck the most. Slow but fun.

[@fodera0915]

@@JasonExplainsThings Can you do a ARB diff breather next time? Alot of folk relocate behind the driver side taillight or Gas cap location

[@xScoutmagx]

Just seems to me it was just the cosmetics that was different. Same box, filter tube made to look cool. Basically, you're buying the same intake but buying the TRD logo, and it's red.

[@charles6952]

Yes, for this just plop a K+N replacement.

[@RobertHolster1]

​@charles6952 Yea I used an AEM air intake on my 2019 Rav4 Limited. Better than stock. I almost bought a TRD Air Intake until I saw this video

[@TinkerersAdventure]

Great video! Glad you actually measured and proved there wasn't really a change in acceleration. So many reviews states "wow i can feel more acceleration" but they were all placebo.

[@drewpopshellz9472]

I just installed one of these in my 2019 Chr xle yesterday. Drove it around today for about 1 1/2 hours on the highway and street. I can feel a difference that seems to speed up a lot faster in all modes. The sound is nice as well. I like it in my car.

[@MC4D.]

Performance differences probably be more noticeable on hwy speeds, when passing around other vehicles, versus dead stop acceleration.

[@codyweaver245]

Dude I love how it looks! I think I’m going to go to my Toyota dealer and have one installed in my 2022 Tacoma! I love anything TRD!

[@Mr67Stanger]

The only real benefit is the looks. Soundwise, it still comes with a resonator, which muffles sound, and performance-wise, well, you saw. great video. Thumbs-up!

[@jeffpoh4246]

You're a positive and happy guy Where was this video two years ago when I bought my TRD intake 😂 Great video!!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

🤣 Thanks man!

[@RobertHolster1]

Great video...like many others, this video helped saved me 300.00 on a TRD Intakd. I actually bought an AEM air intake for my 2019 Rav4, although it's part numbered for an 18-24 Camry, since it's not available for the Rav4, despite the mounting points being identical in all respects. My plan to was to buy a TRD intake, compare it to the AEM and sell which one that I liked. I'll stay with the AEM😬. Again, thanks!

[@larryfayle562]

Hi Jason, great video. Your enthusiasm and passion show through. Keep the mods coming!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

There's a pretty steady stream of them. :-) Suspension and front winch bumper videos coming!

[@SMITT359]

All cosmetic. Makes engine bay all pretty! Better off with Rough Country Cold Air Intake, it is around half the price. I have it my 2023 Tacoma, 6spd manual trans, it’s a beast, and works!😊

[@dms14]

I bought it and have it but hesitating on installing it...

[@KTB3007]

Still like RC intake ? I have 23’ Pro Manual and am wondering

[@lloydalmeida7699]

Thanks for the informative video you saved me $350

[@JasonExplainsThings]

No problem! Yeah I don't mind having it, but I likely wouldn't make it a priority.

[@amandaR587]

Having had many turbocharged cars I’m always impressed by being able to hear the turbo spool when putting an intake on and being able to hear the blow off valve which is fun. Sucks you really don’t even get a really noticeable noise difference. The combination of intake and exhaust would probably make some more horsepower on a dyno. I disagree with what someone said about needing a tune to fully utilize it, the intake and exhaust are pretty harmless modifications that the stock ecu should be able to deal with on its own and make adjustments. Thanks for the comparison video. If you upgrade the exhaust it would be cool to do another 0-60 test

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks Amanda! I totally agree. I might do the Magnaflow Overland exhaust this year... for a better sound and more clearance off road. I'll do another 0-60 then for sure.

[@user-yy7tw9hv9n]

@@JasonExplainsThings How roomy is the tacoma?

[@toxic1698]

​@William It's not.

[@DunnMotors]

Thanks for the honest review 👍

[@HD-on2eg]

Will the stock filter element also fit in this TRD intake housing?

[@TommyLuptak]

I’m happy that I only put the K&N filter in for some much needed throttle response. I’ve got some red electrical tape to make it look prettier 😂

[@JasonExplainsThings]

LOL. 💯

[@GurneyLofland]

This red TRD filter is also manufactured by K&N. I've made several myself when I worked there.

[@GurneyLofland]

You can also clean it with the K&N cleaning kit. You'll have to order the special yellow oil they use since all the other K&N oil is red.

[@mattheineken]

I installed this and torqued down the intake tube according to the written instructions provided by Toyota. 30 in-lb crushed the plastic tube, so I had to order a new piece, put me out $100. Figured it was a problem with the wrench, so I bought a new torque wrench and installed the new tube. Couldn’t even get to 20 in-lb before it felt like it was going to crush the plastic tube again. So I just left it somewhat tight, but the fact it’s not even 10 in-lb below spec is a little unsettling. Thanks for the video, just wondered if you had the same issue.

[@Doc1855]

I paid $175 (on sale) for an oil less washable cold air intake. It gets loud when I’m on the floor. But when I’m cruising at highway speeds, it’s quiet. I currently have the Performance TRD exhaust.

[@lefamily8539]

Hi Jason. I’m following the link above but the Toyota website doesn’t show the item that fit on my 2022 Oem TRD cold air intake. Would you please walk me through it. Thanks

[@billp5424]

I have the Gen 2 version for my ‘10/OR/6MT/4.0. Love the sound.

[@pushermanva757]

2019 taco pro owner here. would highly recommend the K&N kit that replaces the tube and comes with drop in filter. K&N produced legit results on dyno and its $200. My next bang for buck as far as performance would be something like a pedal commander. It takes all the lag out of acceleration and makes a huge difference.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Thanks! Yeah I’m a fan of the pedal commander.

[@MRGTOLS1]

Don’t forget to remove the charcoal filter

[@lonesomecricket7721]

Dude you need more likes.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Yeah the algorithm isn’t much of a fan… oh well. :-)

[@manwithnoname734]

You can accomplish the exact same thing by buying an intake accelerator and a TRD filter. For much less. But it's just honestly not worth it.

[@eze8024]

What is the purpose of the little resonator chamber looking thing on the trd intake? Typically the entire purpose of non oem intakes is to get rid of those in order to be louder

[@marvinmoreno7032]

Will It make a difference with the use of the TRD exhaust together ?

[@wadeduvall7026]

Everyone says you gotta change the tune to see gains (skeptical) or get forced induction to make use of it.

[@MPGunther1]

It's not $350 worth of cool and you don't even get the air box retaining clips... com'on. None-the-less I enjoyed the video

[@JamesReedy]

I suppose about all this has going for it is that in California no emissions tester is going to give you a hard time as it's clearly a factory part. I'd be curious to know the part number for the rubber trumpet that isolates the engine bay from the wheel liner...that's probably a $15 part and might be worth the installing since it's compatible with the bottom box. Grab a K&N filter and call it a day...

[@NilesProductions]

Good install and review. Outside of a cosmetic upgrade and reusable filter it doesn't appear to do much? Is it really worth the price of admission? I may have to pass on this particular upgrade for my truck.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Yeppers. As you see there it doesn't do much. I'd say it's mostly cosmetic. I'll update the description if I notice anything else over time.

[@RxMuscleStrength]

@@JasonExplainsThings CAI are the most expensive HP to $$$ you can buy... by far. Gaining 10-15 hp with a 270hp engine? #hardpass. Although, its major bling factor at the mall!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

@Bryan Hildebrand Not sure what the sass is for... but have an awesome day. 👍

[@TheRealJimmy831]

So this is considered a cold air intake (CAI)? My understanding cold CAI went to the wheel well.

[@alexgg7499]

Is the same box just the trd letters on top

[@royportalise5269]

Try TRD cat-back and a tune and see what happens. Also check fuel economy ⛽️

[@Ethan-ti6ly]

I saw somewhere that cold air intake can help your MPG. Have you noticed a change? Love the truck!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I haven't noticed much of an improvement yet. But in the time since I've only been driving around town... doing some off-roading. After my next road trip I'll report any improvement. But none noticed yet.

[@wrcpatrick]

I had an afe on my tundra and it improved fuel economy surprisingly well. My dad had the same truck and installed an SB (I think that was the brand) and it actually got worse mileage lol. My recommendation, take any of these videos or claims you see online with a grain of salt. Until you try it for yourself you just don't know. I have a 2019 tacoma and left this truck 100% stock.

[@notacarguy4398]

Is there one for the TRD Camry?

[@TRDTalk]

Great video

[@hd114ul7]

That stock box had a K&N?

[@GaryDisson]

Great video. What rock sliders are on your truck?

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Hey there! They're from CBI Offroad. Here's a video about them... I also have a discount code if you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i3O7hZJpfsd2nrs

[@colby3333]

What were your before and after KCLV values when you installed the intake?

[@CaptainChaderick]

Does it still have the charcoal filter? If so, you probably have to find a way to take it out if you really want to get more cold air flow.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Yes, it still has it.

[@davestewart9146]

You may not get any better performance but it does look cool 👍😁

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I'm starting to warm up to it. Like a commenter said I think the truck's ECU had to adapt to it. Driving around town it's starting to feel more responsive and "snappier." I don't know if I'd say it's faster but it makes the truck more fun. I'm gonna move an exhaust higher up on my list now.

[@davestewart9146]

@@JasonExplainsThings looking forward to it my friend 👍😁

[@mikemurray1506]

When was the last time truck was driven with hood open.

[@DistortedMindsProduc]

If you want to hear the intake sound of the motor, the air filter must be outside of the box. Like a 90s import style intake system.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Well, that's not really true. I've done various cold air intakes that are audibly noticeable... most recently an enclosed VWR intake on a GTI and you could hear that really well. But yes outside they're very noticeable. Like a truck snorkel or something. :-)

[@Wireman273]

For $300+ I’ll pass.

[@michaeldev5962]

Me and you both crap that😂

[@MC4D.]

If you look hard enough, you may be able to piece it out for a little less

[@gunny6128]

300+ and it doesn't come with the clips 😂

[@troyheffernan1261]

My 06 Tacoma picked up 5 miles per gallon and loads of torque.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Interesting.

[@user-ej1bq4bq2w]

No, it didn't

[@troyheffernan1261]

@@user-ej1bq4bq2w don't be mad. I'm just smarter than you.

[@user-ej1bq4bq2w]

@@troyheffernan1261 Not so much my friend. I just call it like I see it, and you don't gain 5mpg or loads of torque from an air box. When my S&B CAI (oil filter) went into my 3rd gen it didn't even make much of a difference. I'll also add modifying an intake makes little difference without modifying the exhaust to handle the increase in airflow. You are saying something about being smarter? 🤔

[@NotAMathAsian]

Thanks for telling the truth!

[@paulfoister9474]

TRD CAÍ more responsive than the K&N and better fuel economy. Removed K & N CAÍ after 3 years as it was throwing over 20 % lean fuel codes

[@MustafarRecRoom]

Just installed it on my ‘23 TRD Pro…literally zero difference from the stock intake. Luckily I got it for free from my dealer…..long story.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Yeah, agreed. 👍

[@motoxman541]

For 224.00 your better off getting the HPS Performance Products Silicone Post MAF Air Intake Hose Kit. It’s proven to out perform the TRD intake and less expensive. If you really want to get better performance you can get the Jet Chip POWR-FLO MASS AIR SENSOR. The mass air flow sensor is 223.95 and by installing both you will definitely feel a difference and you will increase MPG. It doesn’t make sense to increase air flow with a very limited mass air flow sensor ( stock ) that will only allow limited air flow. Now since your letting more air in now it’s time to let more air out. A CAT back exhaust coupled with the intake tube and mass air flow sensor with not only sound great but will increase HP and torque and better MPG.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

New exhaust in the works. :-). Thanks for the suggestion.

[@motoxman541]

@@JasonExplainsThings I would do the mass air flow sensor first. The factory sensor is very restricted and robbing you of the full potential of the increased air flow. I bought the HPS Hose Kit and Jet Chip POWR-FLOW MASS AIR SENSOR at the same time. A month later bought an aFe Apollo GT Series 409 SS Cat Back system with a black tip. My brother own a garage and specializes in diesel performance and has a dyno. With all three mods I got an additional 22 RW HP and 26ft lbs of torque. Really not as good at I thought it would be but it’s better than nothing at all. The big thing is I’m getting better mileage. Roughly 2 more MPG city, and highway then stock. I’m also running 255/85r/16 tires ( 33.07 inches tall tires ). Make it breathe before you make it fart. Get the sensor first then exhaust.

[@clover7359]

It sounds a lot better, I'll give it that. Now it just needs a regear to 4.88 so the gearing doesn't hold it back.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

🙌

[@victorvega3498]

Do you think getting the truck tuned would better utilize the trd intake. I'm sure you've heard of those tunes for tacomas, Jason. That's what I'm curious about I have kdmaxx 9.0 on my 2020 and it rips for sure but if a trd.intake made it better it may be worth it but depends on how much gains. Keep us posted and dope truck dude

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Not sure if I'll do a tune or not. I'll likely do a Magnaflow exhaust in the future on this and the 4Runner to add clearance and have some fun sound. :-)

[@victorvega3498]

@@JasonExplainsThings you'll love the tune!!!!

[@dirwinbower4374]

Did it help gas mileage at least

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Nope. Stayed the same. I'll say this is mostly cosmetic. The sound is kinda fun when you give it the beans.

[@nesttrr]

needs a overland tailor tune! "OTT"

[@gfkethan]

oh god a Griz fan??? i dont know if i trust you videos any more!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

😂 Class of 2006!

[@Chris_Kwon_Do]

Project farms begs to differ on the k&n filter

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Cool. Yeah I greatly respect his videos. I’ve used K&N filters for decades but I welcome new info.

[@lAristides]

Buying the TRD logo lol

[@Jeepitydo]

What's the impact on gas mileage?

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I haven't noticed one yet. But in the 3 weeks since installing this I've just been driving around town. I'll update the description if I notice an improvement.

[@Jeepitydo]

@@JasonExplainsThings Thank you @Jason Explains Things! : ) Years ago, I noticed slightly improved power on hills and improved gas mileage on my TJ. The engine "felt" lighter as well. Curious if you see this on the Tacoma.

[@4bvenom733]

not a intake to me cause it using an air filter not a cone air filter and they makes a little more power too

[@coastalcustomlure]

Unless your doing an oversized cat back exhaust you will not see any gains by just replacing your box. You already had all the gains from your K&N filter. Your ECU will just recalibrate itself to the info that the MAS sensor is giving it. What good does a deep breath in do for you if you can’t exhale???? If you have a $350 budget and you want to see performance gains you can replace the factory coils and add performance spark plugs. Another budget item is having your ECU flashed with an off-road/overland tune. Cheers.

[@603storm]

This is the second vid related to this I’ve watched. My question, why is everyone so infatuated with the sound test, rhetorical question. Isn’t this upgrade supposed to be about performance., another rhetorical question.

[@abdoali3213]

Gps signal is late

[@frankt7521]

looks a lot like the OEM you removed. Technically what's the difference between the two? Doesn't seem to be anywhere near worth the $350.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

The new one is OEM as well. I agree and said in the video is was mostly cosmetic.

[@stevepatterson2290]

all I did was install the TRD filter and the boot in the fender all for $100 the whole kit is not worth $395+

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Totally agree.

[@semperliberi]

I simply must know!

[@g7003041]

It just a cosmetic change and make you spend extra $$$. It all in your heads. 😆

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I was pretty darn clear that it’s 90% a cosmetic change with a tiny sound improvement under a couple circumstances.

[@thezachcole]

UUUUUHHHH... 2F2F boieeeeee! Family.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

🤣🤣🤣 Wat Up Cuz?!

[@user-ep6wd7ip7v]

Do the run next time in sport mode also this thing looks exactly the same as stock lol aka fake cold air

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Tacoma's don't have a sport mode. Are you talking about ECT?

[@chharlorakim7346]

why change it ? if not improve anything 😊

[@JasonExplainsThings]

That’s what people testing things and sharing results is for buddy.

[@crs1474]

0-60 was actually 9.13. Your device stopped at 61mph for the 9.59 time.

[@Fletchman1313]

.... ok, so was it worth it? My son is begging me to add one to our Tacoma, saying that it adds power and speed and fuel efficiency!

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Nope. It’s mostly cosmetic in my opinion. I addressed it again in my latest video.

[@Fletchman1313]

@@JasonExplainsThings Ah, thanks. I have some catching up to do.

[@dustin612]

You just bought a factory intake with trd on it😂

[@canalesivany]

Nitro gear make your truck torque

[@Warg666]

Local Toyota dealers want "MSRP $475.00" for it!~

[@JasonExplainsThings]

That’s bananas… and likely over MSRP. My local dealer does that. Should be available other places for $300 or less.

[@AntilleanConfederation]

The only performance here is Toyota ripping people off with this kit. 😂😂😂

[@nastysoda9212]

it's pathetic how much clunkier and weaker the 3.5l v6 feels than the previous 4.0l v6.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

It’s more of a gearing issue than an engine issue. I do the the 4 Liter though. It’s awesome in our 4Runner.

[@RaheemBrandon]

It seems like the truck lost power

[@ronpagala7496]

The TRD label will give you additional 50HP.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

LOL.

[@charles6952]

There's no extra air coming in. Everything else is eye candy. A K+N filter in the stock box is 95% of this.

[@omisan771]

Seems like a big waste of time and money for some red bits under the hood.

[@strandedpirate6346]

critical thinking skills - replace one piece of tubing with another piece of tubing != cool air

[@JasonExplainsThings]

So sassy.

[@joshhoward7451]

Wow no difference. Besides it looking better 😂

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Yep. :-)

[@spider996]

Pedal commander = + performance

[@user-ej1bq4bq2w]

should put that few hundred $ into a tune and got higher mpg's, a more stable/predictable transmission, and no more "drive by wire" throttle delay. The pedal commander is just an over priced fix to throttle delay, no gains in performance or efficiency, whereas a tune does get you those things.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

A tune may happen some day. Lots of options. Re-gearing is also a common upgrade I may consider some day.

[@SyrRduDtw]

When is someone going to put it on a dyno? Don't care how it sounds and a drive test is worthless.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Your view and comment aren’t workless to me. 🥰

[@Pneuma3301]

stock is already cold air

[@nastysoda9212]

still sounds like a minivan

[@JasonExplainsThings]

LOL… maybe. I do plan on doing a Magnaflow exhaust this year.

[@JuanManuel-fm9jt]

ITS A TRUCK NOT A SPORT CAR.THIS AIR INTAKE NOT WORTH IT.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

WHY ARE YOU SHOUTING AT ME?!?!?!?!?! 😭😉 Also, I agree. Not really worth it. Doesn't do any harm but I wouldn't put it high on my list.

[@JuanManuel-fm9jt]

@@JasonExplainsThings relax

[@topher1974cm]

Nope. I'll take my true cold air intake

[@KevinBarry-s9m]

Yeah very hard pass

[@TJ-zc1ws]

Sounds the same lol

[@mongoosevsgt]

Real men don’t use intakes!

[@brianrichard1768]

money for nothing

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Tricks for free? #dadjoke

[@jenkins054]

Scam. I thought about getting a TRD CAI for my CH-R to give it some hrspr’s but after reading Reddit, huge waste of money.

[@mikemurray1506]

Total waste of money

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I wouldn't put it high on a list for sure. I wonder if a new exhaust may make it have more purpose.

[@derek32303]

Looks like a waste of money.

[@JasonExplainsThings]

Yeah it’s more cosmetic than anything. I do plan on doing an exhaust that may make it have more of a point.

[@user-ej1bq4bq2w]

Well, considering the stock airbox on Tacoma's are all already Cold Air Intakes (drawing in air from the wheel well, not the engine compartment), I'd say no, it isn't worth it. What's the point of paying money for something exactly the same as what is being replaced? Doesn't make a whole lot of sense

[@JasonExplainsThings]

I'm inclined to agree.

[@wildbanana5628]

From my experience if it came from the factory leave it 😂 if it’s not broken don’t touch it or replace it 😂

[@JasonExplainsThings]

It’s a factory part there chief.