Upgrading your 2011 BMW 335i N55 with a cold air intake is a fantastic way to boost performance and add a little extra thrill to your driving experience. Let's dive into why you should consider a cold air intake, what to look for, and some top recommendations for your ride.

Why Upgrade to a Cold Air Intake?

So, you're probably wondering, "Why should I even bother with a cold air intake?" Well, guys, the benefits are pretty sweet. First off, a cold air intake does exactly what it says on the tin—it brings cooler air into your engine. Cooler air is denser, meaning it contains more oxygen. More oxygen equals a more efficient combustion process, which translates to increased horsepower and torque. Who doesn't want more power, right?

Beyond the raw power gains, a cold air intake can also improve your car's throttle response. This means your engine will react quicker when you hit the gas pedal, giving you a more immediate and engaging driving experience. Plus, many cold air intakes come with high-flow air filters that are reusable, saving you money on replacements in the long run. And let's not forget about the sound! A cold air intake can add a more aggressive and sporty tone to your engine, making every drive a bit more exciting.

Now, let’s talk specifics. When your engine breathes in cooler air, it reduces the risk of engine knocking, which can seriously damage your engine over time. The stock air intake systems in many cars, including the 2011 BMW 335i N55, are often restrictive. They're designed to minimize noise and meet certain emissions standards, but they're not always optimized for performance. By replacing the stock intake with a cold air intake, you're essentially removing a bottleneck in your engine's air supply.

Furthermore, the improved airflow can lead to better fuel efficiency, especially during highway driving. While the primary goal might be performance, a slight increase in MPG is always a welcome bonus. Think of it as a win-win situation: more power and potentially better gas mileage.

What to Look for in a Cold Air Intake

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of a cold air intake. Great! But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one for your 2011 BMW 335i N55? Here’s what you need to consider:

• Material Quality: Look for intakes made from high-quality materials like aluminum or carbon fiber. These materials are durable and can withstand the high temperatures in the engine bay. Avoid intakes made from cheap plastic, as they can crack or warp over time.
• Filter Type: The air filter is a crucial component of any cold air intake. Opt for a high-flow filter made from materials like oiled cotton or synthetic fibers. These filters offer excellent filtration while allowing for maximum airflow. Make sure the filter is reusable and washable to save money on replacements.
• Heat Shielding: A good cold air intake should include a heat shield to protect the intake from engine heat. Heat shields are typically made from metal or composite materials and are designed to block hot air from entering the intake. This helps maintain the cooler air temperature, maximizing performance gains.
• Installation: Consider how easy the intake is to install. Some intakes are designed to be direct replacements for the stock intake, making installation a breeze. Others may require some modifications or additional hardware. If you're not comfortable working on your car, you may want to have a professional install the intake.
• Compatibility: This might seem obvious, but make sure the intake is specifically designed for your 2011 BMW 335i N55. An intake that's not designed for your car may not fit properly or could cause performance issues.
• Brand Reputation: Research the brand and read reviews from other BMW owners. A reputable brand will typically offer a high-quality product with good customer support. Look for brands that specialize in performance parts for BMW vehicles.

Considering these factors will help you narrow down your options and choose the best cold air intake for your 2011 BMW 335i N55. Remember, the goal is to improve performance without sacrificing reliability or ease of maintenance.

Top Cold Air Intake Recommendations for Your 2011 BMW 335i N55

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here are some of the top cold air intake options that are known to work well with the 2011 BMW 335i N55. These recommendations are based on a mix of performance, quality, ease of installation, and overall value. Keep in mind that prices and availability can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check with multiple vendors.

1. aFe Power Magnum FORCE Stage-2 Cold Air Intake System

   aFe Power is a well-known name in the performance aftermarket, and their Magnum FORCE Stage-2 intake is a popular choice for the N55 engine. This intake features a high-flow air filter, a durable aluminum intake tube, and a heat shield to protect against engine heat. It’s designed to provide significant gains in horsepower and torque, and many users report improved throttle response as well. The filter is washable and reusable, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. Installation is relatively straightforward, and aFe Power provides detailed instructions to guide you through the process. Overall, the aFe Power Magnum FORCE Stage-2 intake is a solid choice for those looking for a balance of performance and reliability.

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2. Injen Technology SP Series Cold Air Intake System

   Injen Technology is another reputable brand that offers a high-quality cold air intake for the 2011 BMW 335i N55. Their SP Series intake features a mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube and a high-flow air filter. The intake is designed to maximize airflow and minimize turbulence, resulting in improved horsepower and torque. One of the standout features of the Injen SP Series intake is its MR Technology, which is designed to optimize the air/fuel ratio for maximum performance. The intake also includes a heat shield to protect against engine heat. Installation is relatively easy, and Injen Technology provides detailed instructions. Many users praise the Injen SP Series intake for its performance gains and aggressive sound.

3. Burger Motorsports (BMS) Performance Intake

   Burger Motorsports, or BMS, is a popular choice among BMW enthusiasts, and their performance intake for the N55 engine is a solid option. This intake features a simple yet effective design that maximizes airflow while minimizing turbulence. The BMS intake uses an open-element air filter that provides excellent airflow and a noticeable increase in engine sound. While it may not offer the same level of heat shielding as some other intakes, the BMS intake is known for its ease of installation and noticeable performance gains. It’s also one of the more affordable options on the market, making it a great choice for those on a budget. If you’re looking for a straightforward and cost-effective way to improve your N55’s performance, the BMS performance intake is worth considering.

4. K&N 69 Series Typhoon Cold Air Intake Kit

   K&N is a household name in the automotive world, and their 69 Series Typhoon intake is a popular choice for many vehicles, including the 2011 BMW 335i N55. This intake features a mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube and a high-flow air filter. The K&N filter is washable and reusable, and it’s designed to provide excellent filtration while maximizing airflow. The 69 Series Typhoon intake is designed to provide noticeable gains in horsepower and torque, and many users report improved throttle response as well. Installation is relatively easy, and K&N provides detailed instructions. One of the benefits of choosing a K&N intake is their reputation for quality and reliability. Plus, their filters are readily available and easy to maintain.

5. AR Design N55 Cold Air Intake

   AR Design is a less commonly known brand, but their N55 cold air intake is a high-quality option worth considering. This intake is designed to provide maximum airflow and improve overall engine performance. It features a large-diameter intake tube and a high-flow air filter. The AR Design intake is also designed to be a direct replacement for the stock intake, making installation relatively easy. While it may be a bit more expensive than some other options, the AR Design N55 cold air intake is known for its quality construction and impressive performance gains. If you’re looking for a premium option that’s designed to deliver maximum power, the AR Design intake is a great choice.

Installation Tips

So, you've got your shiny new cold air intake. Awesome! Now, let's talk installation. While some intakes are super easy to install, others can be a bit more challenging. Here are some tips to make the process smoother:

• Read the Instructions: This might seem obvious, but seriously, read the instructions carefully before you start. Make sure you understand each step and have all the necessary tools. Trust me, this can save you a lot of headaches.
• Disconnect the Battery: Before you start working on your car, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent any electrical mishaps.
• Take Your Time: Don't rush the installation process. Take your time and double-check your work. It's better to do it right the first time than to have to go back and fix mistakes.
• Use the Right Tools: Make sure you have the right tools for the job. This might include sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers. Using the wrong tools can damage your car or the intake.
• Watch Videos: If you're not sure how to do something, watch a video online. There are plenty of tutorials available that can guide you through the installation process.
• Check for Leaks: After you've installed the intake, check for any leaks. Make sure all the connections are tight and that there are no gaps.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading to a cold air intake is a great way to improve the performance of your 2011 BMW 335i N55. By bringing cooler air into your engine, you can increase horsepower, torque, and throttle response. Just make sure to choose a high-quality intake that's designed for your car and follow the installation instructions carefully. Happy driving, guys!