I've got the AFE CAI, almost the same setup as the TRD, only and extra vent, so take note mine is not the exact same setup.

1. I didn't really notice it, but it sounds amazing at high rpms, although I never unhooked the battery, so I don't know if that will make a difference or not.
2. Don't install it at night, makes for a difficult time, besides that install wasn't too bad, you can post here for help if need be.
3. My MAF sensor just mounted right on top of the body of the intake.
4. AFE intake came with it's own filter.
5. Mine is very loud at high rpms, and when it's idling, you can hear it sucking air.
6. AFE was a little cheaper, I got mine on ebay, with a deal from paypal where I got money back, or something I can't remember, but it was under 300 if I recall correctly, I can check if you really want me to.

 

if it gave you 15hp? everyone on the board would have one....

you're not gonn'a get any "colder" air from any aftermarket intake. (btw, i've done the math. a 10* temp change is only worth a 1% hp change) considering we already have one, stock... you'll get greater air-flow, and a bit of noise. and additional richness to the mix that you'd have to tune out to appreciate any hp gains.... if any...

 

1. no
2. more difficult than any other cai systems i've seen, but not horrible.
3. yes, MAF gets removed, and relocated to a new (provided) location.
4. yes.
5. average compared to others. exhaust would deaden most of it.
6. TRD is probably the most expensive of any of them (i'm guessing) results will about the same IMO

 

I had a K&N intake and got rid of it and switched to the TRD CAI a couple years ago. Here's my findings
I switched because the filter on the K&N isn't protected at all. I like the boxed enclosure.
As far as the noise, it only gets loud if you punch it and get the rpm's up above 3-4k.
I didn't think it was hard to install. Don't worry about the MAF sensor.
I patiently watched ebay and bought mine for $250 from a guy who had it for a week and didn't want it.
As far as power goes, I noticed that its like any other CAI and the engine breathes a little easier and the shift points are slightly lower but nothing really noticeable. I mostly notice that the engine is just a little happier breathing and is a little smoother.
The stock intake is like a permanent asthma attack and sucking air through a small straw.
My honest opinion is that no matter which CAI you get, you will like it.
Just do it!!!

 

so i'm thinking for my next mod - TRD cold air intake. i know its gonna be around 350 for the kit. wondering a few things:

1. does it really give you the 15hp and 25 ft lb torque promised?
2. difficulty of install?
3. does it require a relocation of the MAF sensor?
4. does it mean i'm going to get rid of my K&N regular air filter?
5. i know with CAI's you're going to get the loud intake noise... how much noise does this one have?
6. would there be any other *cheaper, more bang for your buck* CAI's that i should consider? and how much would those cost?

any help appreciated!

So I just got the TRD CAI for christmas and so far I really like it
1. Im sure you dont gain that much but I can deffinatly feel it when I really get on the gas.
2. It is not hard to install at all, if you are handy at all with tools it wil be no problem.
3. Yes, you have to relocate the MAF sensor but it is as simple as taking two screws out of it and moving it to the new tube and screwing it back in.
4. It comes with a beasty air filter so no need for the k&n
5. It is not loud under normal driving but when you really get on the gas, you can hear it(and it sounds good!!)
6. It is expensive and there are others out there that are the same thing and alittle cheaper but you also are paying for the TRD logo. I got mine for 330 from my local dealer, just find it as cheap as you can online and then talk to them and get them to price match. Then you dont have to worry about shipping just go and pick it up.

 

I think you're getting the answers to most questions already. I'll answer the one you didn't ask.

Last roadtrip with TRD CAI: 21mpg Mostly 70mph+

Previous trip: 18mpg, mostly 70mph+

Same trip, pretty much same weather conditions.

I won't be removing mine, but I also have the TRD catback exhaust, so I have no idea if it makes a difference without that.

 

I think you're getting the answers to most questions already. I'll answer the one you didn't ask.

Last roadtrip with TRD CAI: 21mpg Mostly 70mph+

Previous trip: 18mpg, mostly 70mph+

Same trip, pretty much same weather conditions.

I won't be removing mine, but I also have the TRD catback exhaust, so I have no idea if it makes a difference without that.

That is something I really want to see with mine, I will be doing some good highway miles soon so ill check then and see how mine dose.

 

well from what i hear, as soon as i get the $ im gonna do it... thanks for the input. im getting 26-27 mpg now so maybe after i get the CAI i could be reaching...30???!?!?!?!! :lol:

 

I got worse gas milage at first. I was always on the gas so I could here it.
Very loud with the TRD exhaust at higher RPM's. Then when I finally drove normal again I saw about 1 mpg increase. It looks the best too IMO.

 

I might be wrong but i'm pretty sure there isn't a TRD intake for the 2.7L

 

thats what i was thinkin

 

Good input guys. Just wondering, does it void warranty even though its TRD?

 

No, unless you have the TRD SC as well...

 

The dealer won't install the TRD CAI with the SC because TRD's instructions for the SC state that the warranty isn't covered if you add a CAI.

I fully understand the MM act, but do you really think if the instructions say "no cold air intake" and you put one on that Toyota is going to honor the warranty if the engine blows?

 

Your comment was not the one I was referring to. I was aware of the S/C issue. The comment by SlickT is the one that I was responding to. Sorry I should have quoted it the first time around. I edited my other post to include the quote.