Best Cold Air Intake for a 5.0 F150
Boost your V8 5.0L F-150’s performance with a top-quality cold air intake system. These enhancements allow your engine to draw in cooler, denser air, resulting in improved horsepower and torque. With options spanning budget-friendly products to high-end performance kits, you will find the perfect cold air intake tailored to your specific model year and performance goals. This guide dives into the best cold air intakes available for various years, helping you make a well-informed decision.
Quick Product Summary
- BEST OVERALL: K&N NextGen Cold Air Intake System (2015-2025 F150) (dyno-proven performance, lifetime warranty, premium engineering)
- BEST BUDGET PICK: Aosuracing Cold Air Intake Kit (2015-2020) (under $100, high-flow filter, 40-minute install)
- BEST FOR 2021-2025 MODELS: Rough Country Cold Air Intake (2021-2025) (affordable, HDPE tube design, lifetime warranty)
- BEST MID-RANGE WITH EXTRAS: EVIL ENERGY Cold Air Intake (2015-2020) (includes pre-filter, 98% filtration, aggressive sound)
- BEST FOR 2015-2020 VALUE: Rough Country Cold Air Intake (2015-2020) (reliable brand, reusable filter, easy installation)
- BEST PREMIUM OPTION: Roush 422267 Engine Cold Air Intake Kit (2018-2025) (highly-engineered, CAD-designed, includes filter cleaner)
- BEST FOR 2011-2014 MODELS: BAGARAATAN Cold Air Intake Kit (2011-2014) (aluminum construction, washable filter, under $100)
- BEST ALTERNATIVE FOR 2011-2014: VVORHSBELL Cold Air Intake Kit (2011-2014) (T-6061 aluminum, powder-coated heat shield)
- BEST ALTERNATIVE FOR 2015-2020: Generic Cold Air Intake (2015-2020) (reinforced construction, corrosion-resistant, 1-year warranty)
- BEST ALTERNATIVE ROUSH: Roush 422088 Cold Air Intake System (2018-2024) (premium engineering, high-flow performance filter)
Our Top Picks
The cold air intakes detailed below have been vetted for performance, build quality, and customer ratings. Review the highlights and specifications for each product to aid in your decision.
Best Overall: K&N NextGen Cold Air Intake System (2015-2025 F150)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2015-2025 Ford F-150 5.0L V8
- Filter Type: High-flow cotton (premium pleated gauze, ISO-5011 tested)
- Air Channels: CAD-designed for optimized airflow
- Installation: Quick and easy using Quick-Lock technology
- Warranty: No-Hassle Lifetime Limited Warranty
What We Like
- Dyno-proven performance with guaranteed horsepower and torque increases
- Enlarged factory air inlet for improved airflow and lower temperatures
- Oversized air filter design enhances performance
- Easy installation with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind
What We Don’t Like
- Higher price point compared to many alternatives
This K&N system is the go-to choice for F-150 enthusiasts seeking optimal performance gains. The design prioritizes improved airflow through a larger inlet and engineered channels, resulting in noticeable horsepower and torque boosts.
Best Budget Pick: Aosuracing Cold Air Intake Kit (2015-2020)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2015-2020 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 only
- Filter Type: High-flow air filter
- Filtration Efficiency: Up to 99%
- Installation: Under 1 hour with basic tools
What We Like
- Inexpensive option under $100 with robust performance gains
- Easy installation with no need for cutting or drilling
- Improved throttle response and acceleration
What We Don’t Like
- Only fits 2015-2020 model years
- Not suitable for EcoBoost models
Aosuracing provides an exceptional value for those looking to upgrade their 5.0L F-150’s performance without breaking the bank. Its solid engineering offers noticeable improvements in horsepower and torque, making it an excellent choice for budget-minded enthusiasts.
Best For 2021-2025 Models: Rough Country Cold Air Intake (2021-2025)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2021-2025 Ford F-150 V8/5.0L
- Tube Material: High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
- Heat Shield: Molded design to protect intake air
- Filter: Premium reusable air filter
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty
What We Like
- Affordably priced for newer trucks
- Increased airflow helps improve engine performance
- Lifetime warranty ensures your investment is protected
What We Don’t Like
- Not compatible with 2015-2020 F-150s
This intake is tailored for modern F-150s, ensuring a performance boost through superior design. The HDPE construction helps maintain cooler intake temperatures while supporting increased airflow.
Best Mid-Range With Extras: EVIL ENERGY Cold Air Intake (2015-2020)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2015-2020 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 only
- Filter Type: Multi-layer cotton filter with pre-filter
- Filtration Efficiency: Over 98%
- Heat Shield: Steel construction to block engine heat
- Installation: Under 40 minutes
What We Like
- Includes a pre-filter extending the lifespan of the main filter
- 98% filtration efficiency ensures maximum protection for the engine
- Smooth walls reduce airflow restriction and enhance performance
What We Don’t Like
- Higher cost than basic budget options
- Limited to a specific range of model years
EVIL ENERGY excels in providing thoughtful features like the pre-filter, which adds value and longevity to your investment. The overall design improves airflow efficiency and helps maintain a powerful engine sound.
Best For 2015-2020 Value: Rough Country Cold Air Intake (2015-2020)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2015-2020 Ford F-150 V8/5.0L
- Filter Type: Premium reusable air filter
- Performance: Increases horsepower and engine efficiency
- Installation: Easy at-home install
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty
What We Like
- Established brand with reliable performance history
- Reversible air filter design saves replacement costs
- Installation support ensures customer satisfaction
What We Don’t Like
- Limited to 2015-2020 model years
- Basic features compared to more advanced models
Rough Country’s intake system for 2015-2020 models balances performance and value, offering many of the benefits of more expensive options while being easy to install and backed by a trusted name.
Best Premium Option: Roush 422267 Engine Cold Air Intake Kit (2018-2025)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2018-2025 Ford F-150 5.0L V8
- Part Number: 422267
- PCM Recalibration: Not required
- Warranty: Included filter cleaner and recharge kit
What We Like
- Highly-engineered design maximizes airflow
- Less intake restriction provides exceptional performance
- Includes filter cleaner to maintain performance
What We Don’t Like
- Higher price range, reflecting premium status
- Limited to 2018-2025 model compatibility
This Roush intake epitomizes superior engineering, able to deliver noticeable gains while ensuring optimal air quality and flow efficiency. This intake kit is built for serious enthusiasts wanting the best performance enhancements.
Best For 2011-2014 Models: BAGARAATAN Cold Air Intake Kit (2011-2014)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2011-2014 Ford F150 5.0L V8
- Tube Material: Industrial-grade T-6061 aluminum
- Performance: 7-10% horsepower and torque boost
- Filter: High-flow micro-cotton cone filter
What We Like
- Affordable option tailored for earlier models
- Quality materials enhance durability and performance
- Comprehensive kit for easy installation
What We Don’t Like
- Exclusively compatible with 2011-2014 models
BAGARAATAN offers an impressive cold air intake for older models, combining solid performance enhancements with affordability. The superior design allows for increased airflow while protecting the engine from debris.
Best Alternative For 2011-2014: VVORHSBELL Cold Air Intake Kit (2011-2014)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2011-2014 Ford F150 5.0L V8
- Tube Material: Industrial-grade T-6061 aluminum
- Performance: 7-10% horsepower and torque improvement
What We Like
- Identical performance specs as the BAGARAATAN kit
- Easy installation with included components
What We Don’t Like
- Limited to earlier F-150 model years
VVORHSBELL provides a competitive choice for 2011-2014 F150 owners, successfully delivering solid performance through high-quality materials and thoughtful design.
Best Alternative For 2015-2020: Generic Cold Air Intake (2015-2020)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2015-2020 Ford F150 5.0L V8
- Filter Type: High-flow filter
- Performance: 8-12% horsepower and 6-10% torque improvement
- Warranty: 1-year warranty included
What We Like
- Strong performance claims with significant power increases
- Corrosion-resistant design ensures durability
What We Don’t Like
- Performance estimates may seem ambitious for some
Offering solid construction, the Generic intake delivers effective improvements for 2015-2020 models. The heat-resistant design and reinforced components ensure long-lasting performance.
Best Alternative Roush: Roush 422088 Cold Air Intake System (2018-2024)
Product Specs
- Compatibility: 2018-2024 Ford F150 5.0L
- Part Number: 422088
- Filter Type: Performance air filter
- Warranty: Washable and reusable design
What We Like
- Premium brand engineering ensures high performance
- High-flow design promotes maximum airflow
What We Don’t Like
- Price is higher than budget options but reflects quality
The Roush intake is an exceptional choice for those looking for well-engineered options. Its high-flow filter design ensures your engine performs at its best while being backed by a reputable brand.
What to Look For When Choosing a Cold Air Intake
Model Year Compatibility
Cold air intakes differ by generation and model year, so verifying compatibility is crucial. Ensure your F-150’s exact year and engine configuration match the intake specifications prior to purchasing.
Engine Type Confirmation
Compatibility is limited to 5.0L V8 engines—EcoBoost or other variants will require different air intake systems. Check your vehicle’s documentation for exact details.
Installation Difficulty
Most kits are bolt-on, needing minimal tools and taking 30 to 60 minutes. Higher-end or specially engineered systems may involve more work.
Filter Technology
Opt for washable and reusable filter designs, which can significantly improve airflow and data retention over disposable versions.
Heat Shield Design
A well-constructed heat shield is vital to ensuring cooler air enters the engine, thus greatly enhancing performance gains.
Warranty Coverage
Check for warranties varying from 1-year coverage on budget choices to lifetime warranties on premium systems to secure your investment.
Performance Claims vs. Reality
Expected horsepower and torque gains vary widely. Look for well-documented performance claims to gauge actual expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much horsepower does a cold air intake add?
Quality intakes can typically add between 5-12% in horsepower, with more refined systems providing documented performance enhancements.
Will a cold air intake void my warranty?
Generally, they do not void warranties unless they directly cause engine damage. Consult your dealership for specific policies.
Can I install a cold air intake myself?
Yes, most installations are straightforward. Basic tools required; professional installation is recommended for those uncomfortable with DIY.
How often should I clean the filter?
Regular maintenance typically involves cleaning filters every 20,000-30,000 miles, or sooner for vehicles driven in harsher conditions.
Does a cold air intake improve fuel economy?
Intakes can provide slight fuel efficiency improvements, but gains are minimal compared to expected performance enhancements.
Are premium intakes worth the higher price?
Premium options often provide engineered performance and extended warranties, making them beneficial for serious enthusiasts.
Will my truck sound different with a cold air intake?
Yes, expect a deeper, more aggressive intake note, particularly during acceleration, while maintaining moderate noise levels during cruising.
Can I stack multiple performance modifications together?
Absolutely—intakes pair well with other mods like tuners and exhaust systems for compounded performance gains.
