Best Cold Air Intakes for 2015-2025 Ford F-150
The Ford F-150 remains the gold standard for versatility, but whether you are piloting a twin-turbo EcoBoost or the legendary 5.0L Coyote V8, the factory airbox is often a bottleneck for performance. A high-quality cold air intake is one of the first modifications owners make to improve throttle response, increase induction sound, and unlock hidden horsepower. By replacing restrictive factory tubing and paper filters with high-flow media and smoother conduits, you allow your engine to breathe more efficiently. In this comparison, we look at the leading options for the 2015-2025 model years. We cover everything from 50-state legal kits that maintain your warranty to high-performance carbon fiber systems designed for maximum airflow. Because the F-150 uses several distinct engine platforms, it is critical to choose a system engineered specifically for your displacement—whether that is the high-torque EcoBoost V6 or the high-revving V8.
In a hurry? Our top picks
- Best High-Performance Premium Pick: aFe
- Best Street-Legal Upgrade: Roush
- Best for 5.0L V8 Daily Drivers: K&N Engineering
- Best Value for EcoBoost: AEM Induction
- Best for Torque & Throttle Response: Injen
- Best for Custom-Tuned V8 Builds: Airaid
How to choose
When selecting an intake for your F-150, the first decision is between dry and oiled filters. Dry filters, like those found in the Roush and AEM kits, are excellent for those who want low-maintenance performance and drive in dusty environments. Oiled filters, utilized by aFe and K&N, generally offer slightly higher airflow potential but require periodic cleaning and re-oiling to maintain their filtration efficiency. For EcoBoost owners, look for designs like the Injen system that feature merge collectors to equalize pressure between the two turbos, preventing the common surging issues associated with lesser designs. Material choice also plays a role in heat management and aesthetics. Rotomolded plastic or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) tubes are superior at resisting heat soak compared to metal, though mandrel-bent aluminum offers a classic look and a more pronounced engine roar. If you live in a state with strict emissions like California, prioritize CARB-legal systems. Lastly, while most modern kits are 'no-tune required,' some high-performance options for the 5.0L V8 may suggest a custom tune to fully optimize the air-fuel ratio for the increased volume of air entering the engine.
At a glance
| Product | Price | Fits | Filter Type | Est. Power Gain | Tube Material | Tune Required | CARB Legal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 aFe POWER Track Series Cold Air Intake System w/ Red Kevlar Carbon Fiber Tube & Pro 5R Filter for 2021-2026 Ford F-150/Expedition & Lincoln NavigatoraFe |
$911.00 | 2021-2026 Ford F-150 Police Responder +35 | Oiled Cotton | +18 HP / +17 lb-ft | Carbon Fiber / Kevlar | No | No |
 Roush Performance Cold Air Intake Kit for 2018-2023 Ford F-150 (2.7L / 3.5L EcoBoost)Roush |
$429.99 | 2018-2023 Ford F-150 King Ranch +9 | Dry Cotton | Not Specified | Plastic / Nylon | No | Yes (EO #D-418-43) |
 K&N NextGen Aluminum Cold Air Intake for 2015-2025 Ford F-150 (V8-5.0L) 70-2591K&N Engineering |
$549.99 | 2015-2023 Ford F-150 King Ranch +7 | Oiled Cotton | +14.6 HP / +16.5 lb-ft | 6063 Aluminum | No | No |
 AEM 21-8128DC Performance Cold Air Intake System with Gunmetal Gray Tube for 2015-2021 Ford F-150 (3.5L)AEM Induction |
$369.99 | 2015-2016 Ford F-150 King Ranch +6 | Dry Synthetic | +17 HP / +18 lb-ft | Mandrel-bent Aluminum | No | Yes (2015-16 only) |
 Injen PF Cold Air Intake System Race Blue for Select 2015-2025 Ford and Lincoln (V6-3.5L) PF9032RRBInjen |
$568.08 | 2017-2025 Ford F-150 Raptor +35 | Dry Synthetic (Dual) | +12 HP / +24 lb-ft | Rotomolded XLPE | No | No |
 Airaid MXP Cold Air Intake System for 2015-2020 Ford F-150 (5.0L) - Oiled Filter, Black Tube - 400-293Airaid |
$317.99 | 2015-2020 Ford F-150 King Ranch +5 | Oiled Cotton/Synthetic | +19 HP | HDPE Plastic | Recommended | Yes (Specific Years) |
Feature details compiled from the sources listed below; power figures are manufacturer-claimed and vary by engine.
Best High-Performance Premium Pick
aFe POWER Track Series Cold Air Intake System w/ Red Kevlar Carbon Fiber Tube & Pro 5R Filter for 2021-2026 Ford F-150/Expedition & Lincoln Navigator
This aFe Track Series system is the ultimate choice for the late-model EcoBoost owner who wants zero compromises. It delivers a massive 70% increase in airflow over stock and utilizes a stunning Red Kevlar and carbon fiber intake tube that resists heat soak better than metal alternatives. While it is the most expensive option on our list, the dyno-proven gains of up to 18 HP and 17 lb-ft of torque make it the clear performance leader for 2021-2026 models.
Best Street-Legal Upgrade
Roush Performance Cold Air Intake Kit for 2018-2023 Ford F-150 (2.7L / 3.5L EcoBoost)
If you want to stay 50-state legal while improving your F-150's performance, this Roush kit is the top contender. It features a 105mm mass airflow tube and a dry filter that requires no oiling, making it extremely low-maintenance. It is specifically engineered to reduce intake restriction by up to 25% on forced induction models and is one of the few performance kits that includes a hydrocarbon trap to remain fully emissions compliant.
Best for 5.0L V8 Daily Drivers
K&N NextGen Aluminum Cold Air Intake for 2015-2025 Ford F-150 (V8-5.0L) 70-2591
Designed specifically for the 5.0L Coyote V8, this K&N NextGen system delivers the aggressive engine roar V8 owners crave. It provides an estimated gain of 14.6 HP and significantly increases airflow by up to 67% over the stock airbox. The mandrel-bent aluminum tube and semi-enclosed heat shield offer a great balance of durability and performance, though users in California should note this specific V8 kit is not CARB-exempt.
Best Value for EcoBoost
AEM 21-8128DC Performance Cold Air Intake System with Gunmetal Gray Tube for 2015-2021 Ford F-150 (3.5L)
The AEM Performance system is a fantastic mid-range option that offers substantial gains of 17 HP without the premium price tag of carbon fiber. It uses a gunmetal gray aluminum tube and a specialized Dryflow synthetic filter that is oil-free and easy to clean. It is particularly attractive for 2015-2016 owners who need a CARB-legal solution, though later model years (2017+) are restricted to 49-state legality.
Best for Torque & Throttle Response
Injen PF Cold Air Intake System Race Blue for Select 2015-2025 Ford and Lincoln (V6-3.5L) PF9032RRB
Injen's PowerFlow system stands out with its dual SuperNano-Web dry filters and a specialized merge collector designed to equalize pressure between the turbos. This design is focused on improving throttle response and delivering a massive +24 lb-ft torque gain, which is ideal for towing and off-road use. The rotomolded XLPE construction is incredibly durable and finished in a unique 'Race Blue' that adds a custom look to the engine bay.
Best for Custom-Tuned V8 Builds
Airaid MXP Cold Air Intake System for 2015-2020 Ford F-150 (5.0L) - Oiled Filter, Black Tube - 400-293
For the 2015-2020 5.0L F-150 owner planning on further modifications, the Airaid MXP offers a high-flow HDPE tube and a large oiled filter at a very competitive price. While the manufacturer notes that a custom ECU tune is recommended to see the full benefits of this race-inspired design, it offers a high ceiling for power gains (estimated at 19 HP). It is a robust, no-nonsense system for those who prioritize raw airflow over 'plug-and-play' simplicity.
Installation & what to expect
Installation typically takes 60 to 90 minutes using basic hand tools like a socket set and screwdrivers. Most kits utilize factory mounting points and sensor locations, so no drilling or cutting is required. After installation, ensure all clamps are tight to prevent vacuum leaks, and give the ECU a few drive cycles to calibrate to the new airflow parameters.
Watch these in action
Real reviews & installs for these picks — tap any clip to watch it right here.
2015-2026 2.7L EcoBoost F-150 AFE Magnum FORCE Stage ... — via AmericanTrucks Ford on YouTube
F-150 Cold Air Intake. 5.0. AFE Momentum. Install Video. — via Cycle Moto on YouTube
2021-2024 3.5L EcoBoost F-150 AFE Momentum XP Cold Air ... — via AmericanTrucks Ford on YouTube
2015-2018 F150 Roush Cold Air Intake 5.0L Review & Install — via AmericanTrucks Ford on YouTube
2018-2020 F150 5.0L Roush Cold Air Intake Kit Install — via Stage 3 Motorsports on YouTube
2015-2025 EcoBoost F-150 K&N DRYFLOW Cold Air Intake ... — via AmericanTrucks Ford on YouTube
2015-2023 F-150 K&N Series 77 High Flow Performance Cold ... — via AmericanTrucks Ford on YouTube
2015-2023 F-150 K&N Series 77 High Flow Performance Cold ... — via AmericanTrucks Ford on YouTube
2015-2016 F150 AEM Performance Gunmetal Gray Cold Air ... — via AmericanTrucks Ford on YouTube
Injen Cold Air Intake Install On My Ford F150 | SOUND CLIPS! — via Auto Freak Garage on YouTube
Full Install of Injen Powerflow Cold Air Intake for 2015-2020 ... — via Zero Garage on YouTube
2015-2016 F150 Airaid MXP Series Cold Air Intake 3.5L ... — via AmericanTrucks Ford on YouTube
Airaid Cold Air Intake Install | F150 5.0! — via Smackey's Garage on YouTube
Frequently asked questions
Will a cold air intake void my Ford warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a manufacturer cannot void your warranty simply for installing an aftermarket part unless they can prove the part caused a specific failure. Many options like the Roush kit are designed to be extremely safe, but always check with your dealer if you are concerned.
Do I need to tune my F-150 after installing an intake?
Most of the intakes featured here, including the K&N and aFe Power kits, are engineered to work with the factory engine calibration. However, some high-flow systems like the Airaid MXP recommend a custom tune to optimize the air-fuel ratio and maximize horsepower gains.
Which is better for an F-150: a dry or oiled filter?
Dry filters are generally better for F-150 owners who drive in dusty or off-road conditions as they are easier to clean (often just with compressed air or soap) and won't foul sensors with oil. Oiled filters typically offer slightly better airflow and are preferred for maximum performance street builds.
Will these intakes fit the PowerBoost Hybrid?
Fitment varies. The Roush kit specifically lists compatibility with the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid, while the aFe and Injen systems are explicitly noted as not compatible with hybrid models. Always verify your specific engine code before purchasing.
Upgrading your 2015-2025 F-150 with a cold air intake is one of the most rewarding 'bang-for-your-buck' modifications you can perform. Whether you choose the premium carbon fiber of aFe Power or the street-legal reliability of Roush, you'll enjoy improved throttle response and a much more satisfying engine note every time you hit the gas.