Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: The Ultimate Air Intake Guide

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001).

The Jeep Cherokee along with most cars on the market come with a very restrictive air intake system. As a result, the air going around the engine is warm air, which decreases the engine's power. The cold air intake kits bring air from the outside and into your engine, which means the air coming in is much cooler than the air in the engine, resulting in a better engine performance. Read on to learn how you can install the kit yourself; you will also learn about all of the different brands, so you can pick the one that works best for you and your budget.

How to Install Air Intake

Step 1 – Disconnect the battery

Open the hood in your Jeep. Locate the battery, and then remove the negative (black) battery terminal.

Step 2 – Remove the old box

Remove the hose attached to the air box by prying off the clamp using a flat head screwdriver. Remove the cover by unhooking the clips attaching it to the box. Remove the cover and the air filter.

Step 3 – Assemble the kit

The new cold air intake kit should come with a new filter, a hose, heat shield, and some hardware. Assemble the kit before installing it into the Jeep. Hook the hose into the heat shield that came with the kit, and follow the kit's instructions. (Every kit could vary slightly in assembly.)

Step 4 – Install the new kit

The new heat shield should fit right onto the old box. Secure the clips from the new box onto the old box. Then, install the new filter and attach it to the original hose coming from the throttle body. Don't forget to attach the crank case hose to the new intake from the side.

Featured Video: How to Install Cold Air Intake

Cold Air Intake Review

A cold air air intake is exactly what you need to give your Jeep Cherokee the extra boost. There are many different brands that fit many different budgets. Whether you're looking for top performance, affordable kits, or great warranties, there is always something for everyone. Read on to pick the best kit for you.

K&N

Price – $275

Dry/Oiled – Dry

Colors – Gunmetal Grey or Polished

Material – Aluminum

Warranty – Million Mile Limited

K&N is one of the most popular brands when it comes to cold air intakes. Their reputations are golden, as they have been known to noticeably increase power. One of the forum's favorite characteristic for these kits is that they increase torque power. The kit comes with everything you need to install it, so it makes the process much easier. A few Jeep drivers said that their MPG went up from 11 to 14. Some have complained about the rubber hose, saying it was too big for the throttle body. However, if this is the only issue, it makes it a very good product. Recommended if you're looking for top quality cold air intake with the best warranty.

Airaid

Price – $234

Dry/Oiled – Oiled and Dry

Color – Multi-colors

Material – Aluminum or Stainless steel

Warranty – Lifetime

The Airad cold air intake gives you the freedom of choosing a flowing oiled system, or an easy to clean dry one. Built in the U.S.A., a lot of forum members love this product when it comes to adding a bit of muscles to their cars. With it being slightly cheaper than its competitor K&N, many people choose to go with it instead, and save the extra money to burn on gas. The Airaid prides itself in not needing any tuning when installed, which means you can install it at home. Some enthusiast report a drop in the MPG, which usually steers buyers away. Recommended if you're looking for a good product with many options within.

Injen

Price – $234

Dry/Oiled – Dry

Color – Multi-color

Material – Lightweight Aluminum

Warranty – Lifetime

For the picky enthusiasts, the lightweight design could be intriguing. However, this is a Jeep, so it can't be that much of a selling point. If you're one that likes to open the hood and show off your engine, the multi-color factor will be pleasing to you. Drivers swear by its sound; however, they say it doesn't last too long and it goes away as you go faster as well as harder. Some say the finishes could be better, but the gains are noticeable. Recommended if you're looking for a mean sound.

Volant

Price – $181

Dry/Oiled – Dry

Color – Grey

Material – Stainless steel

Warranty – 1 year

The Volant comes packed with everything you need to install. The stainless steel structure makes this product the most durable against heat. So if you like to take your Jeep off-roading and put it to the test, this product might be your best pick. No one can deny the low price when compared to most other competitors on the market, which makes this a very ideal kit for anyone looking for immediate improvement in gas and power. With lower price comes lower standard, however. Many have complained about vague instructions and misaligned holes. However, if you can get past the installation, this product isn't bad for the money. Recommended if you're looking for a decent upgrade in power, without spending a lot of money.

Spectre

Price – $149

Dry/Oiled – Dry

Color – Red and Blue

Material – Chrome Coated

Warranty – Lifetime

As the cheapest product on this list, this is something people consider temporary. Whether they want an upgrade until they can afford better, a different look, or if they want quick and easy cold air intake for their part-time Jeep, this is a popular choice. The kit comes with everything you may need to successfully install it. And as a plus, the filter is re-washable and can be used for years to come. The chrome coated pipe gives the engine compartment an attractive look that'll sure to make people look twice. Some customers said that it was a tight squeeze, some say they didn't notice a big change in MPG, we say who cares, for this price any change in performance is a success. Recommended if you are looking for a mild upgrade without breaking the bank.

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