Buy Mitsubishi Eclipse Air Intake Kits

A performance air intake kit-also called a cold-air intake, short-ram intake, induction kit, or performance snorkel-replaces the factory snorkel, resonator box, and panel filter on all four generations of the Eclipse (1990-2012). The kit's wide, mandrel-bent tube aims the filter toward a cool spot behind the bumper or fender. Cooler air packs in more oxygen, which helps the 4G63, 4G69, or 6G75 engines burn fuel more completely. (NASA Speed News Magazine, club3g.com)

Inside every cylinder, air mixes with gasoline and sparks. Colder air holds extra oxygen molecules. Moving the filter away from hot engine parts-and using a pipe with fewer bends-reduces intake temperatures and restriction. NASA Speed News explains that a 10 °F drop in inlet air can raise power by 1-2 percent. (NASA Speed News Magazine)

• Quicker throttle feel. AEM's dyno charts for the Eclipse show sharper response from idle to 4,000 rpm. (AEM Intakes)
• Modest power bump. Independent tests on similar 2.0- and 3.8-liter engines add 8-16 hp and 10-20 lb-ft. (MotorTrend, MotorTrend)
• Better engine sound. Drivers on Club4G say the deep whoosh under load is "addictive" even when power feels the same. (Club4G)
• Reusable filter. Most kits use cotton or synthetic media you can wash and re-oil.
• Weight savings. Swapping bulky plastic resonators for a single tube can cut 5-7 lb. (Cold Air Inductions)

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Engine code chart: see this helpful Mitsubishi engine guide for more details.

• Aluminum pipes shed heat fast, resist cracking, and polish easily. (Cold Air Inductions)
• Thermoplastic pipes weigh less and can insulate the airflow but may soften next to headers.
• Short-Ram Intake (SRI) sits higher in the bay; easier to fit but sucks warmer air. CarThrottle measured better torque below 3,000 rpm with SRI yet higher gains from 3-5 k with CAI. (CarThrottle)
• Hydro-shield socks slip over the cone to repel splash without choking flow. (YouTube)

1. Unplug the mass-air-flow (MAF) sensor and remove the stock box.
2. Bolt the heat shield (if supplied) to factory grommets.
3. Slide the new tube onto the throttle body with a silicone coupler.
4. Mount the filter inside the fender well; be sure it clears the wheel liner.
5. Reconnect the MAF, tighten clamps, and check for vacuum leaks. Club4G users report 45-60 minutes for a first-time install with basic hand tools. (Club4G)

• Inspect every oil change. Knock dirt off the cone with gentle taps.
• Deep-clean every 12,000 miles or sooner if you drive dusty roads. (Club4G)
• Re-oil cotton media lightly; too much oil can foul the MAF.
• Check clamps-vibration can loosen them over time.

The Eclipse ECU targets a 14.7:1 air-fuel ratio, so it will trim fuel to match the extra air. (club3g.com) For big mods like cams or turbo upgrades, a wideband O ₂ sensor and custom tune unlock full gains.

• Hydrolock. A low-mounted filter can gulp water in deep puddles. Wikipedia notes that water cannot compress and may bend connecting rods. (Wikipedia)
  • Solutions: use a bypass valve or hydro-shield, avoid water deeper than the bumper.
• Heat soak. Short-ram intakes can inhale hot under-hood air at idle, reducing power. (DSMtuners.com)
• Poor filtration. Cheap foam filters may pass fine dust; stick to multi-layer cotton gauze.

California and several U.S. states require proof that aftermarket intakes do not raise emissions. Parts with a CARB Executive Order (EO) number are legal for street use and must display that EO sticker under the hood. The California Air Resources Board explains the process on its Aftermarket Parts Program page.

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Q: What horsepower can I really expect?
A: Most Eclipse owners see 5-15 hp and 10-20 lb-ft on a dyno, depending on engine and other mods. (MotorTrend)

Q: Will it void my warranty?
A: Under U.S. law (Magnuson-Moss), Mitsubishi must prove the intake caused a failure before denying coverage. Keep your stock parts for peace of mind.

Q: Does a short-ram work as well as a cold-air kit?
A: Short-rams are easier to install and keep filters dry, but they draw hotter air, so power gains are smaller at high rpm. (CarThrottle)

Q: Can the engine suck up water?
A: Yes-deep standing water can cause hydrolock. Using a hydro-shield or bypass valve reduces risk. Avoid water above the bottom of the bumper. (Wikipedia)

Q: How often should I clean the filter?
A: Check it at every oil change and deep clean about once a year, or sooner in dusty areas. (Club4G)

Q: Is tuning required?
A: Light bolt-ons like an intake usually do not need a tune; the ECU will adapt. For turbo builds or cam swaps, a tune is recommended to get full gains. (club3g.com)

Q: Is it legal in California?
A: Only intakes with a CARB EO number are street-legal. The EO must match your exact engine and model year. (California Air Resources Board)

Q: Which material is best?
A: Aluminum pipes are sturdy and cool quickly; plastic resists heat soak but can warp. Choose based on climate and budget. (Cold Air Inductions)

Q: Will it change fuel economy?
A: Many drivers report 1-2 mpg better on the highway because the engine breathes easier, but gains vary by driving style. (Club4G)

Q: Does it really make the car louder?
A: Yes-the open cone filter and smooth pipe let you hear the engine sucking air, especially under heavy throttle.

With the right kit, careful installation, and regular upkeep, a performance air intake lets any Mitsubishi Eclipse inhale chilled fresh air, adding a dash of power and a whole lot of fun.