How to Install a Cold Air Intake System

Difficulty Level:
Beginner
Estimated Time:
2 - 3 Hours
Tools Needed:
  1. Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips);
  2. Socket Wrench with extensions;
  3. Torx Bits ( For removing screws on airbox and intake tubing);
  4. Pliers (for hose clamps)
Parts Needed:
  1. Cold Air Intake Kit;
  2. Air Filter;
  3. Hose Clamps;
  4. MAF Sensor Adapter or Mount;
  5. Mounting Hardware;
  6. Heat Shield (Optional)

Additional Supplies (Not always included but recommended):

  1. Rubber Grommets or Couplers;
  2. Breather Hose.
Safety Precautions:
  1. Ensure the engine is completely cool before starting;
  2. Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues.
Step One: Gather Your Tools and Materials.
Illustration of tools needed

Gather all necessary tools and parts. Prepare an area to keep screws & parts.

Task Complete?
Step Two: Disconnect the car Battery.
Disconnecting the car battery.

Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any electrical mishaps.

Task Complete?
Step Three: Remove the Engine Cover.
Illustration of removing the engine cover.

Engine bay with cover removed, showing the stock intake.

Task Complete?
Step Four: Locate and Disconnect the MAF Sensor
Illustration of removing the MAF sensor.

Use a screwdriver or socket wrench to loosen the clamps holding the intake tubing to the throttle body.

Task Complete?
Step Five: Loosen the Hose Clamps on the Stock Intake.
Illustration: Loosening the hose clamp.

Hands loosening the hose clamp near the throttle body.

Task Complete?
Step Six: Remove the Stock Intake Tubing.
Illustration of removing tubing.

Gently pull the intake tube free from the throttle body and other attachment points, making sure not to damage surrounding components.

Task Complete?
Step Seven: Remove the Stock Airbox
Illustration of removing the stock air-box.

Empty area where the air-box was located, showing bolts and mounting points.

Task Complete?
Step Eight: Install the New Cold Air Intake Filter
Illustration: Installing the Air Intake.

Attach the filter to the new intake tube, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Secure it tightly with the provided clamp.

Task Complete?
Step Nine: Position the New Intake Tube in the Engine Bay
Illustration: Position the new Intake Tube.

Carefully guide the intake tube to the throttle body, aligning it with the mounting points where the stock intake was installed.

Task Complete?
Step Ten: Secure the Intake Tube and Tighten Clamps
Illustration: Securing the intake tube.

Once the intake tube is properly positioned, tighten the clamps near the throttle body and any other mounting points.

Task Complete?
Step Eleven: Reconnect the MAF Sensor
Illustration: Reconnecting the MAF sensor.

Plug the MAF sensor back into the connector on the intake tubing, ensuring it clicks into place securely.

Task Complete?
Step Twelve: Check All Connections.
Illustration: ensuring all connections are secure.

Double-check that all clamps are secure and that the intake tube is stable. Ensure there are no loose wires or connections.

Task Complete?
Step Thirteen: Reinstall the Engine Cover
Illustration: Reinstall engine cover.

Place the engine cover back over the engine bay, pressing down to secure it in place.

Task Complete?
Step Fourteen: Reconnect the Battery
Illustration: Reconect the battery

Reattach the battery’s negative terminal to power the car.

Task Complete?
Step Fifteen: Test the Installation
Illustration: Test the installation.

Start the engine, the car should idle smoothly, and you might hear a slightly more aggressive intake sound.

Task Complete?
Congratulations!

You’ve successfully installed your new cold air intake on your MK7 GTI. This upgrade not only enhances your car’s performance but also gives it a fresh sound and look under the hood. Enjoy the improved throttle response and airflow, and remember to check the intake periodically for any loose connections. Great job!