TRD cold air intake worth it?

Anyone have this installed in their 4runner? Looking to install in my 2015 Trail. Is it worth it?
Some have said the engine sounds better with this installed? What are your thoughts?

 

I installed the S&B. Don’t know if it’s worth it or not, but I can clean it whenever I want to and never have to buy another air filter. (And it looks nice) Yes it does make somewhat of a throatier sound. If you really want to make the CAI come alive, throw in a Pedal Commander!

 

Did you have to reprogram the computer module for the different air flow?

 

Worth every penny (IMO) and the PC adds a nice touch (IMO)

Here's some Specs from Toyota

TRD Cold Air Intake System
Dyno-tested to deliver an increase in both horsepower and torque for superior acceleration and power.

• Optimized airflow to engine intake can increase fuel efficiency.
• Features reusable high-flow, low restriction air filter that can be cleaned and reused for the life of the vehicle.
• Incorporates a vacuum indicator that monitors filter efficiency and indicates when filter service is required.
• Emission-legal in all 50 states.

The TRD performance air intake creates more horsepower and torque by bringing cooler, denser air to your engine from behind and below the headlight area. Using a unique 3-angle 5.5” to 4” filter flow adapter that mounts in a black rotational-molded housing. The intake is dyno-tested to increase horsepower and torque for superior acceleration and greater pulling power.

• EMISSIONS LEGAL: Yes
• ENGINE TYPE: Roller Rocker
• TRD: TRD

Emissions Compliance Information:

A new process has been implemented. No longer is the Emissions Label included in the Performance Air Intake Kit.
If your state requires an Emissions Compliance Label, one may be ordered through your Toyota dealer or the Toyota Materials Distribution Center (MDC) 310-468-9800 or MDC@toyota.com

This TRD Performance Air Intake Kit has received 50-State Emissions Compliance via the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Not all states require the Emissions Compliance Label but TRD does recommend ordering one. To receive the proper Emissions Compliance Label for this TRD Performance Air Intake Kit, please order MDC part number 00602-35130. Proof of ownership may be required.

 

Not with the TRD CAI

 

No...

 

Is it easy to install without having Toyota do it? How long did it take? I'm guessing you did it yourself.

 

I couldn’t find a TRD CAI for the 2019. Not sure what changes were made that it wouldn’t fit on the 19 but ended up with the S&B because I have it on my RAM3500 and it’s been a good system.
When I called S&B they told me they didn’t have one for the 19 either. I asked if they’d send me one so I could see if it fits and if it didn’t I could return it for a refund. They agreed as long as I sent them pics and any notations of issues on the install. It fit great and I only found one minor issue where I gave them feedback and it only had to do with which bolt to install first on the air box to make it easier. Long story short it does sound good, sounds awesome with the Peddle Commander, and I received a free Oiling kit from S&B for letting them know their unit works on the 2019 4R.

 

Simple! 30 minutes tops

 

Real easy install, about an hour install, the most time is spent on separating the wires and re-looming them.
There's another blog that has step by step instructions and video you can find pretty easy

 

I’ve watched all the videos and one shows plugging holes in the air box. Is that on every kit or just the one he bought ? I see there is a kit listed on Amazon.

 

https://trail4runner.com/2017/05/29/trd-cold-air-intake-install-5th-gen/

2018 and 2019 are exactly the same.

 

Waste of money, just a noise maker

 

Do you have one on your 4Runner or experience driving a 4Runner that had it installed?

 

Before the argument gets started, there is very little power gained with quite a bit of money spent. I personally do not have any Dyno results, but I do have the TRD intake, URD Y pipe, with 2.5" exhaust and a Magnaflow muffler. Truck sounds great and "Feels" like it has more power. So I am satisfied, but I spent nearly a $1000 for the all these mods. Too much money for most folks.
This gentleman on T4R.org put his TRD intake Dyno results here: Only 5 hp and 19 ft lbs with TRD intake and everything else stock. My personal observation is because of traction control kicking in on the Dyno machine, the torque numbers in these dyno results are skewed because he had to roll into the throttle. The lower RPM torque numbers could be higher than reported because of this.
Now if you add a Y pipe and exhaust you might get a little more power. Add headers and you might get a little more but you have to get a dyno tune with someone that can crack the ECU to take advantage of all these upgrades, and those guys are few and far between. Supposedly there is a guy out of Puerto Rico that comes to Florida a few times a year, but I do not have proof of how much power he can get for you. "Gadget" over at URD can tune your truck, but unless you live near Maryland, that's a wash too. There are most likely some folks out west that can tune you up too, but I have no knowledge of anyone with a legitimate tune, except "Magnuson" developing their supercharger.
So inmho, if you listen to the nay sayers there is no power to gain and it's a waste of money. Perhaps, but if we had always listened to the nay sayers, we would all still be riding in horse drawn wagons. So my advice is, MOD away people, and see what happens. WASTE THAT MONEY!!
My last thought about this is the fact that Toyota doesn't include a TRD intake with the TRD PRO 4Runner is BS!!!! Maybe the EPA numbers for an import w the TRD intake wouldn't pass, or maybe Toyota just didn't think soccer moms would want more power. That is all......Thank You.

 

I like this post. The reason I asked on the previous post was, I put a TRD performance intake and exhaust on my 2016 Tacoma. I also “felt” a noticeable improvement in acceleration out of the gate. In the Tacoma forum folks that said it would make no improvement, didn’t make the modifications and had never driven a truck that had the modifications. Folks that had made the modifications all reported improvements in acceleration.
I am putting on the performance intake, and will be making modifications to the exhaust on my 4Runner. I am cautiously optimistic that I will “feel” the same improvement as I did in the Tacoma. Like you said it’s my hard earned money to spend, so if it makes me all warm and fuzzy, I am good with the improvements that I “feel”.
I like to get opinions from folks who have experience with the actual modifications being discussed.

 

Sorry for the delay, No holes to plug easy install kit comes with step by step
I scored mine on Black Friday so saved some $$
I ordered mine from my dealer https://parts.rosevilletoyota.com/p/TRD-Cold-Air-Intake-System/69528642/PTR0389100.html

Try this CODE for free shipping "FREESHIP" @ Checkout (it worked a few weeks ago)

 

MattMo, on your 2019. Did you have to get a CA sticker for the intake? Also, when trying to order, Toyota says that it will not work with the newer 4 runners. any help would be great. It is something I would love to add.

 

I installed one on my ‘19 Pro, extremely easy to do. Took me about 1 hour and I was taking my time. Ordered the parts individually instead of the kit and it cost $270. I went with AEM Dry Flow airfilter, instead of TRD or K&N, tested better by independent lab for air flow. Engine growls now at low acceleration and screams when opened up.

 

I'm a year away from California smog requirement but talking to service managers and techs it is not required in CA anymore and it's posted on the site (copied and pasted below)

This is the one I ordered and fits my 2019 ORP and love it: https://parts.rosevilletoyota.com/p/TRD-Cold-Air-Intake-System/69528642/PTR0389100.html


Emissions Compliance Information:
This TRD Performance Air Intake Kit has received 50-State Emissions Compliance via the California Air Resources Board (CARB). Not all states require the Emissions Compliance Label but TRD does recommend ordering one. To receive the proper Emissions Compliance Label for this TRD Performance Air Intake Kit, please order MDC part number 00602-35130. Proof of ownership may be required.

A new process has been implemented. No longer is the Emissions Label included in the Performance Air Intake Kit.

If your state requires an Emissions Compliance Label, one may be ordered through your Toyota dealer or the Toyota Materials Distribution Center (MDC) 310-468-9800 or MDC@toyota.com

 

Like the idea of a dry washable filter, Did you use Part #28-20438 AEM DryFlow Air Filter?

 

I promise you will enjoy it! We do.
Congratulations & keep us posted.

 

Yeah, that’s the one. Some might argue this point, but the proximity of the MAF was an influencing factor as well. Anytime I cleaned the MAF, about every 6 months with previous oiled filter setups, it seemed like there was a throttle response increase. Basically saying a small film develops on the sensor over time w/ oiled.

 

If you go the individual parts method, which I recommend, you just need a few zip ties and some high temp electrical tape.

TRD Intake Parts - $217 (bams parts)
AEM Filter - $43 (Amazon)

 

Wherever you order from look for coupon/discount code. Nothing wrong with saving $$$.

 

Pickup this weekend at Roseville Toyota for these 6 parts is $194.84. Shipping is outrageous though but if you live near the Sacramento area this is a good deal.

Can you tell me what exactly the PTR03-34071 TRD Gage Int Tun is? No info on the product page.

Also the Amazon link for the air cleaner takes me to Amazon but not the product page. Do you have the correct link?

Thanks.

 

It’s the yellow part on the top of the intake. It measures air flow and has markers on it letting you know when flow is below standard. An indicator to change or clean filter. Has nice TRD markings too. Some just plug the hole.

 

Isn't "high flow air filter" just code for "more dirt in your motor"?

 

Yes, exactly correct. More cold dirt air. Has nothing to do w/ the efficiency of filters or restrictions of the stock intake.

 

Dumb question: Where is the air being sucked in from with the TRD CAI? Is it still the same spot above the pax fender? I'm trying to figure out how this affects water fording. No change is fine. Worse would be unacceptable. Thanks, all.