Air Intake Guide
Best Cold Air Intakes for the
2007 – 2018 Jeep Wrangler: Every Kit Compared
A complete comparison of cold air intake systems for the 2007–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK — covering the 3.8L V6 (2007–2011) and 3.6L Pentastar V6 (2012–2018). Flow increase, horsepower and torque gains, filter types (oiled vs dry), pricing, and fitment notes from Ripp, Injen, aFe, S&B, K&N, Banks Power, and more.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Brand / Kit | Flow Increase | HP | Torque | Filter Type | Fits | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ripp | — | +6 HP | +15 lb-ft | Oiled | 3.6L / 3.8L | $290 | SHOP → |
| Injen Evolution | — | +10 HP | +9 lb-ft | Oiled / Dry | 3.6L / 3.8L |
|
SHOP → |
| HPS | — | +6.1 HP | +9.9 lb-ft | Oiled | 3.6L / 2012–18 |
|
SHOP → |
| aFe Momentum GT | +47% | +12 HP | +11 lb-ft | Oiled | 3.6L / 2012–18 |
|
SHOP → |
| Banks Power | — | +8 HP | +11 lb-ft | Oiled / Dry | 3.6L / 2012–18 |
|
SHOP → |
| K&N 57 Series | — | +12.2 HP | +8.9 lb-ft | Oiled | 3.6L / 2012–18 | $368 | SHOP → |
| S&B | +46.78% | — | — | Oiled / Dry | 3.6L / 3.8L |
|
SHOP → |
Important
What to Know Before You Buy
Cold Air vs Short Ram
A cold air intake draws air from outside the engine bay (fenderwell, grille) for cooler, denser air and better power. A short ram intake stays under the hood; easier install and lower cost, but can pull warmer air. For maximum gains, cold air is preferred. Short ram is fine for mild upgrades and simpler maintenance.
Filter Maintenance
Oiled filters (K&N, aFe Pro 5R) need periodic cleaning and re-oiling every 15,000–50,000 miles. Dry filters (SynthaMax, S&B Dry Extendable) are maintenance-free longer and avoid over-oiling issues. Choose based on preference; both flow well when maintained.
CARB & Emissions
Some intakes have CARB EO numbers and are 50-state legal. Others are for off-road use only. Check the product listing before buying if you live in California or other strict-emissions states. Most bolt-on intakes do not require tuning.
Water Fording
Jeep Wranglers are built for off-road. If you frequently water ford, ensure your intake is sealed or positioned to avoid hydrolock. Most enclosed systems (S&B, Banks, aFe Momentum GT) protect the filter from splash and dust.
Ripp Carbon Fiber Sealed Cold Air Intake Kit: Jeep Wrangler JK (2007–2018)
Ripp’s carbon fiber sealed cold air intake is the most affordable full intake in this guide. Dyno-verified +6 HP and +15 lb-ft. Fits 3.6L V6 Wrangler JK (2012–2018). Carbon fiber construction keeps weight down and adds a premium look. Sealed design draws cooler air from outside the engine bay.
Ripp has a strong presence in the Jeep community. Straightforward bolt-on install using factory mounting points. Ideal for JK owners who want proven gains without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lowest-priced intake in this guide
- Carbon fiber construction
- +15 lb-ft torque gain
Cons
- 3.6L only (2012–2018); no 3.8L kit
- No published flow increase
Injen Evolution Cold Air Intake System: Jeep Wrangler JK 2012–2018 3.6L V6
Injen Evolution delivers strong value for JK 3.6L owners. Dyno-verified +10 HP and +9 lb-ft. Available in oiled or dry filter variants. Fits 2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L Pentastar. Cold air design; draws from fenderwell for cooler intake temps.
Injen has a solid reputation in the Jeep and domestic aftermarket. The Evolution uses a high-flow filter and mandrel-bent tubing. Good mid-tier option between budget and premium.
Pros
- Dyno-verified gains; strong price-to-performance
- Oiled and dry filter options
- True cold air design
Cons
- 3.6L only (not 3.8L)
- No flow increase data
HPS Cold Air Intake: Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L V6 2012–2018
HPS Cold Air Intake delivers dyno-verified +6.1 HP and +9.9 lb-ft for the JK 3.6L. Fits 2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L Pentastar. Available in multiple colors (red, blue, etc.). Straightforward bolt-on install using factory mounting points.
Budget-friendly option with published dyno numbers. Good for JK owners who want measurable gains without premium pricing.
Pros
- Dyno-verified gains
- Color options
- Competitive price
Cons
- 3.6L only (2012–2018)
- Lower gains than premium options
aFe Momentum GT Cold Air Intake System (w/Pro 5R Filter): Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L V6 2012–2018
aFe Momentum GT delivers the highest flow increase in this guide: +47% over stock, plus +12 HP and +11 lb-ft. Sealed one-piece housing protects the filter from engine heat and contaminants. Fits 2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L Pentastar. USA-made. Pro 5R oiled filter; also available in Pro DRY S and Pro GUARD7.
aFe has a strong presence in the Jeep community. The Momentum GT is the go-to for JK owners seeking maximum power gains with proven flow data.
Pros
- +47% flow; highest in this guide
- Full metrics: flow, HP, torque
- Sealed design; multiple filter options
Cons
- 3.6L only (2012–2018)
- Oiled filter requires periodic maintenance
Banks Power Ram-Air Cold Intake: Jeep Wrangler JK 2012–2018 3.6L
Banks Power Ram-Air Cold Intake delivers +8 HP and +11 lb-ft. Enclosed housing with large conical filter. Tuned Helmholtz resonator reduces drone while preserving a deep induction sound. Fits 2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L. Available in oiled or dry filter variants.
Banks has over 60 years in diesel and gas performance. The Ram-Air system is extensively tested and validated. 5-year limited warranty.
Pros
- Enclosed housing; Helmholtz resonator
- Oiled and dry filter options
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- 3.6L only (2012–2018)
- No flow increase data
K&N 57 Series Cold Air Intake: Jeep Wrangler 3.6L V6 2012–2018
K&N 57 Series delivers the highest HP gain in this guide: +12.2 HP and +8.9 lb-ft. Roto-molded HDPE intake tube, oversized oiled cotton High-Flow Air Filter™, and custom heat shield. Fits 2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler 3.6L V6. Washable, reusable filter lasts up to 100,000 miles before service.
K&N’s Million Mile Filter warranty backs the filter. 60-minute install with basic hand tools. The 57 Series is the go-to for JK owners seeking maximum power with proven reliability.
Pros
- Highest HP gain (+12.2) in this guide
- Million Mile Filter warranty
- Washable filter; 100K-mile service interval
Cons
- Oiled filter requires periodic maintenance
- 3.6L only (2012–2018)
S&B Cold Air Intake: Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L V6 2012–2018
S&B Cold Air Intake flows 46.78% better than stock. Fully enclosed airbox protects the filter from dirt and engine heat. Large clear lid with rubber seal. Fits 2012–2018 Jeep Wrangler JK 3.6L. Available in oiled (75-5060) or dry (75-5060D) filter. USA-made.
S&B is a leader in Jeep intake systems. Multiple airflow configurations: clear lid, silicone hood seal for vented hoods, optional box plug. No check engine lights; designed for stock calibration.
Pros
- +46.78% flow; fully enclosed
- Oiled and dry filter options
- Multiple airflow configurations
Cons
- 3.6L only (2012–2018)
- Premium price tier
Fitment Reference
Which Kits Fit Your Trim?
| Trim | Ripp | Injen | HPS | aFe | Banks | K&N | S&B |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wrangler JK 3.8L V6 (2007–2011) | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Wrangler JK 3.6L V6 (2012–2018) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
✓ = Confirmed • ✗ = Excluded
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a tune when installing a cold air intake?
Most cold air intakes are plug-and-play; no tune required. The factory MAF sensor and ECU handle the increased airflow. For heavily modified engines (headers, cam, forced induction), a tune can optimize gains. Check the product listing for manufacturer notes.
Will a cold air intake void my warranty?
Bolt-on intakes generally do not void the vehicle warranty. They do not alter emissions equipment. Some dealers may flag modifications; check with your dealer if concerned. Magnusson-Moss Warranty Act protects against blanket voiding for aftermarket parts that don’t cause a failure.
Oiled vs dry filter: which is better?
Oiled filters (K&N, aFe Pro 5R) flow well and are washable; they need periodic cleaning and re-oiling. Dry filters (S&B Dry Extendable, Banks dry) are maintenance-free longer and avoid over-oiling issues that can foul MAF sensors. Both perform well when properly maintained.
What’s the difference between cold air and short ram intakes?
A cold air intake draws air from outside the engine bay (fenderwell, grille) for cooler, denser air. A short ram stays under the hood; easier install, lower cost, but can pull warmer air. Cold air typically yields better power gains.
I have a 3.8L JK (2007–2011). What intakes fit?
For 3.8L V6 Wrangler JK (2007–2011), the Ripp (2007–2011 kit), Injen (Evolution 3.8L), and S&B (75-5084 for 3.8L) offer confirmed fitment. Other brands in this guide are 3.6L only. Check our air intake collection for the latest.
Ready to Upgrade Your Jeep Wrangler Intake?
Compare flow increase, horsepower, and torque above, pick the right fit for your engine (3.8L or 3.6L) and budget, and order with confidence. Need help? Contact us.
