Improving Ford Maverick Performance with a Cold Air Intake Upgrade

Improving Performance With a Cold Air Intake on the Ford Maverick

The new Ford Maverick has made quite a splash since its release for the 2022 model year. This compact pickup truck has proven to be an affordable, fuel efficient, and versatile option for drivers who want truck capability without a full-sized price tag. One popular way Maverick owners are enhancing their trucks is by installing an aftermarket cold air intake.

How a Cold Air Intake Improves Performance

The Maverick comes standard with a 2.0 liter EcoBoost turbocharged four cylinder engine. This motor produces 250 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, providing sprightly acceleration and towing up to 4,000 lbs. However, many owners are finding they can get even more power and efficiency from this engine with an aftermarket air intake upgrade.

The factory air intake system uses an enclosed air box and intake tubing. Aftermarket cold air intakes replace this setup with an open element air filter and less restrictive piping. This allows cooler, denser outside air to be drawn into the engine. The cooler air creates a denser intake charge, which means more oxygen molecules for better combustion. The smoother airflow path also reduces intake resistance which allows the engine to breathe easier.

Together, the cooler air temperatures and reduced intake restrictions provide several benefits. These include:

• Increased horsepower and torque output
• Better throttle response
• Enhanced efficiency from leaner fuel mixtures
• More engine sound for driver enjoyment

After installing a cold air intake, Maverick owners notice quicker acceleration, more power for climbing grades and passing, and potentially 1-3 mpg fuel economy gains around town. The engine also takes on a deeper, throatier sound that's much more satisfying than the stock airbox.

Choosing the Best Intake for the 2.0 EcoBoost

There are a variety of aftermarket intakes available for the Maverick 2.0 EcoBoost engine. Prices range from around $200 up to $400 depending on materials and design. When selecting an intake, here are some factors to consider:

• Filter Type - Cotton gauze and synthetic media filters allow best airflow. Stay away from oiled filters which can degrade over time.
• Open vs Close Element - Open filters don't have a cover, allowing maximum exposure to cool air but requiring more frequent cleaning. Closed housings offer protection from debris and heat soak.
• Filter Size - Larger surface areas can flow more air and require less frequent service.
• Tube Material - Heat resistant composite, aluminum, or steel tubing will hold up over time. Avoid cheaper plastic tubing.
• Tuning - Some intakes include electronic modules or flash tunes to optimize performance.

Popular intake choices include:

• aFe Power Magnum Force Stage 2 Pro 5R Cold Air Intake
• K&N 57i High Performance Intake Kit
• MBRP Performance High Flow Intake System
• Roush Cold Air Intake Kit
• Steeda RidaCold Air Intake

Each of these intakes is specifically engineered for the 2.0 EcoBoost Maverick. They draw in cool outside air, reduce restrictions, and feature large open air filters for increased flow. After installing one of these systems, owners report gains of up to 20 hp, improved throttle response, and 1-2 mpg better fuel economy.

Installing Your Chosen Intake

Putting a cold air intake on the Maverick takes 1-2 hours for most DIYers. The process involves:

1. Removing the stock airbox assembly (intake tube, air filter housing, intake snorkel)
2. Detaching crank case vent and intake air temperature sensor lines
3. Removing the front bumper cover
4. Installing the new intake tube, fastening it to the throttle body
5. Mounting the air filter in the front bumper cover
6. Reconnecting sensors and crank vent lines
7. Reinstalling bumper cover

The only tool needed is a standard socket set. With basic mechanical skills, the swap can be completed in an afternoon. Don't forget to reset the electronic throttle body and fuel trims so the engine computer can adapt to the new intake.

Enjoy the Benefits of Cool Intake Air

Installing an aftermarket cold air intake is one of the most rewarding and cost effective upgrades available for the Ford Maverick. Drivers can expect to gain 10-20 horsepower, quicker acceleration, and 1-3 mpg fuel economy improvement for only a few hundred dollars. Just as importantly, they'll enjoy the increased engine sound that comes from opening up the motor's air intake tract.

If you own a new Maverick, consider adding a high flow cold air intake system from aFe, K&N, MBRP, Roush, or Steeda. Your truck will be more responsive, efficient, and fun to drive. The 2.0 EcoBoost engine was already a overachiever from the factory, and now you can make it even better with cooler intake temperatures. Get your new air intake installed before next summer and start enjoying the benefits of maximizing your Maverick's airflow.

FAQs

Does a cold air intake void my Maverick's factory warranty?

No, installing an aftermarket cold air intake does not automatically void your new vehicle warranty. However, if an intake component causes another part to fail, Ford may deny a warranty claim on that failed part.

What tools do I need to install a cold air intake?

You'll need a basic socket set with metric and standard sockets. An 8mm nut driver can be helpful for clamp screws. Needle nose pliers may aid in manipulating crank case vent and sensor lines. A flat head screwdriver can help pry off plastic trim pieces.

Where does the air filter mount on a Maverick cold air intake?

Most Maverick intakes position the air filter inside the vehicle's front bumper cover. A hole is cut in the bumper to allow fresh outside air to reach the filter.

How often do I need to clean the intake filter?

Inspect the filter every 6 months or 7,500 miles. Use compressed air to blow off surface debris. Clean cotton gauze filters can be washed and reoiled. Synthetic filters may need replacement every 30,000-50,000 miles.

Will a cold air intake cause my Maverick to fail an emissions test?

No, a properly engineered intake will not cause emissions test failures. There may be check engine lights and codes set initially while the computer adjusts, but these should clear within a few drive cycles.