AEM 21 733C Cold Intake System Review

The fit is almost perfect. Quality parts (as expected from AEM), the only complaint I have is that for close to $300 you could at least get the rubber fairing assembled before shipping.

I've always been skeptical about cold air intakes being worthwhile. I can't say it's worth $400 because I just installed it and I'm sure it depends on what you're hoping to get by spending $400. But I have to say - the engine sounds a lot better and I can definitely feel the difference (although it's not like I just turned on the turbo, so I wasn't expecting much).

Very well built! Everything is strong, firmly attached. There won't be a ton more performance, but it's an easily noticeable difference. The big difference is in the sound, which makes your car sound more like a mid-range engine than a cranky gerbil. And your engine bay will look a lot cleaner with it instead of having all those unnecessary plumbing from the factory.

This intake does what it's supposed to and packs a deep growl on a 2.5L 5 cylinder engine. My only complaint is that I bought it for a 2012 Beetle and it barely fits in there. The engine compartment is a little different from the Jetta and Golf and it's cramped. The filter rubs against the power steering. Not enough to affect anything, just a very tight fit. The manual says not to touch anything else in the engine compartment, but that's not possible on a Beetle.

I have to say I'm in love with this product. It took me a little over an hour to install. What I really like is that there are videos and instructions on how to install it. Aside from the setup being near perfect, the only real complaint I have is that for nearly $300, at least the rubber fairing could be fitted before shipping. Otherwise that short RAM does what it's supposed to do, I get more mpg and faster response from my 2011 Jetta. It also comes with a free plate frame.

The device makes the car sound more aggressive. Can't say for sure if this is due to more power and torque than advertised. I agree with the previous comment that the heat shield was supposed to come with a heat shield attached, it was a pain to put on. Also, the heat shield required a bit of "Powerfit". Doesn't quite fit my 2013 Passat as advertised. Also, the neck should mimic the stock mount a bit better as the top and bottom ports weren't easy to install due to the different orientation. A…