Hey guys! Let's dive into upgrading the intake system on your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan. Choosing the right intake can really boost your car's performance and give it a more aggressive sound. We'll cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Why Upgrade Your Intake?

Upgrading your intake system, especially on a car like the 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan, offers several awesome benefits. The stock intake is often designed with compromises to reduce noise and meet emissions standards, which can restrict airflow to the engine. By installing an aftermarket intake, you're essentially allowing your engine to breathe more freely, leading to noticeable improvements.

One of the primary benefits is an increase in horsepower and torque. More air entering the engine means more efficient combustion, which translates to more power. You'll likely feel a difference in acceleration and overall responsiveness, making your G35 even more fun to drive. An upgraded intake system can also improve fuel efficiency, although this often depends on your driving habits. If you're not constantly flooring it to enjoy the added power, you might see a slight improvement in MPG. Moreover, an aftermarket intake usually gives your engine bay a cleaner, more aggressive look. Many intakes come with polished tubes and high-quality filters that simply look better than the factory setup. And let’s not forget the sound! Aftermarket intakes often enhance the engine's sound, giving it a deeper, more aggressive tone, especially under acceleration. It's a small change that can make a big difference in how you perceive your car's performance. When selecting an aftermarket intake, consider factors like the filter type, the material of the intake tube, and the overall design. Some intakes are designed for maximum airflow, while others focus on filtration and ease of maintenance. Matching the intake to your specific driving needs and preferences ensures you'll get the most out of the upgrade. Ultimately, upgrading your intake system is a fantastic way to unleash more of your G35's potential, making it a worthwhile investment for any enthusiast.

Types of Intakes for the 2007 Infiniti G35 Sedan

When it comes to intakes for your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan, you've got a few main types to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons. Understanding these differences will help you pick the one that best fits your needs and how you use your car.

First up, we have short ram intakes (SRIs). These intakes replace the stock airbox with a filter placed directly on the throttle body or a short distance away. SRIs are known for being easy to install and often provide a noticeable increase in throttle response. Because the filter is located in the engine bay, it can draw in warmer air, which might slightly reduce power compared to other types of intakes. However, the convenience and improved sound often make them a popular choice. Next, there are cold air intakes (CAIs). CAIs are designed to draw air from outside the engine bay, typically from the fender well or near the front bumper. This allows the engine to receive cooler, denser air, which can lead to greater horsepower gains. CAIs usually involve a more complex installation process since they require routing the intake tube to a lower location. One potential drawback is the risk of water ingestion if you drive through deep puddles or flooded areas. Then we have ram air intakes. These are less common but can be very effective. Ram air intakes use the vehicle's motion to force air into the intake, creating a positive pressure that can further enhance performance. These systems often require modifications to the front of the car to properly duct the air to the intake. Lastly, there are also variations and combinations of these designs, such as hybrid intakes that try to combine the benefits of both SRIs and CAIs. Some manufacturers also offer complete intake kits that include upgraded filters, tubes, and heat shields to maximize performance and protect against heat soak. When choosing an intake, think about how you use your G35. If you're looking for a simple, budget-friendly upgrade with improved sound, an SRI might be the way to go. If you want maximum power gains and don't mind a more involved installation, a CAI could be a better choice. And if you're serious about performance and willing to modify your car, a ram air intake might be the ultimate option.

Top Intake Brands for the G35

Alright, let’s talk about some of the top brands making intakes for your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan. Choosing a reputable brand can make a big difference in terms of quality, performance, and overall satisfaction. You want to make sure you're investing in a product that's going to last and deliver the promised benefits.

One of the well-known brands is Stillen. Stillen has a long history of producing high-quality performance parts for Nissan and Infiniti vehicles. Their intakes are designed to provide a good balance of power gains, sound, and ease of installation. Stillen intakes often feature mandrel-bent aluminum tubes and high-flow air filters, ensuring smooth airflow and excellent filtration. Another popular brand is AEM. AEM is renowned for its advanced air filter technology and innovative intake designs. Their intakes are engineered to maximize airflow while providing superior filtration, protecting your engine from harmful particles. AEM offers both short ram and cold air intakes for the G35, giving you options depending on your preferences and driving conditions. Then we have Injen. Injen Technology is known for its aggressive designs and focus on performance. Injen intakes often feature unique shapes and configurations aimed at optimizing airflow and increasing horsepower. Their products are rigorously tested to ensure they meet high standards of quality and performance. K&N is also a very well-known brand in the aftermarket intake world. K&N intakes are designed to improve airflow and increase horsepower while providing excellent filtration. K&N intakes are easy to install and maintain, making them a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. Finally, let's talk about aFe Power. aFe Power offers a wide range of performance products, including intakes for the G35. aFe intakes are designed to deliver maximum power gains and improved throttle response. Their products are often made from high-quality materials and feature innovative designs to optimize airflow. When choosing an intake brand, consider factors such as your budget, performance goals, and desired level of maintenance. Reading reviews and doing some research can help you make an informed decision and ensure you're getting a product that's right for your needs. Investing in a quality intake from a reputable brand is a great way to enhance the performance and enjoyment of your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan.

Installation Tips and Tricks

So, you've picked out your new intake for your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan – awesome! Now let's talk about getting it installed. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer or a newbie, these tips and tricks will help make the installation process smoother and less stressful.

Before you even start, gather all the tools you'll need. This typically includes a socket set, screwdrivers, pliers, and maybe a few specialized tools depending on the intake kit. Having everything within reach will save you time and frustration. Read the instructions thoroughly. I know, it sounds obvious, but really take the time to understand each step before you start wrenching. Different intakes have different installation procedures, and skipping steps or misunderstanding the instructions can lead to problems. Disconnect the battery. This is a crucial safety step. Disconnecting the negative terminal will prevent any electrical mishaps while you're working on your car. When removing the old intake, take your time and be gentle. You don't want to break any connectors or damage any surrounding components. Pay attention to how everything is connected so you can easily reassemble it later. When installing the new intake, make sure all connections are secure. Check that all hoses and clamps are properly tightened to prevent air leaks. Air leaks can cause performance issues and trigger check engine lights, so it's worth taking the extra time to ensure a tight seal. Pay attention to the filter placement. Ensure the filter is properly positioned to draw in clean air and is not obstructed by any other components. Some intakes come with heat shields to protect the filter from engine heat, so make sure those are installed correctly. Double-check everything before starting the engine. Once you've finished the installation, take a final look to make sure everything is in its place and properly connected. Check for any loose wires or hoses and make sure all clamps are tight. After you've started the engine, listen for any unusual noises or leaks. If you hear anything strange, shut off the engine and investigate. It's better to catch a problem early than to risk damaging your engine. Finally, reset your ECU. After installing the new intake, your car's computer may need to relearn the new airflow characteristics. Resetting the ECU can help it adapt more quickly and optimize performance. Installing an intake can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following these tips and taking your time, you can ensure a successful installation and enjoy the benefits of your new performance upgrade.

Expected Performance Gains

Okay, so you've installed your new intake on your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan. Now, what kind of performance gains can you realistically expect? It's important to have realistic expectations, as the actual gains can vary depending on several factors.

Generally speaking, you can expect to see gains of around 5 to 15 horsepower at the wheels. This might not sound like a huge number, but it can make a noticeable difference in throttle response and overall acceleration. Keep in mind that these are peak gains, and you might also see improvements in torque throughout the RPM range. The type of intake you choose will also affect the performance gains. Cold air intakes (CAIs) typically offer slightly better gains than short ram intakes (SRIs) because they draw in cooler air. However, the difference might not be significant in all situations. The condition of your engine and other modifications you've made can also influence the results. If your engine is already well-maintained and you have other performance upgrades, such as exhaust or tuning, you might see greater gains from the intake. On the other hand, if your engine is old or has underlying issues, the gains might be less noticeable. The quality of the intake and the brand also matter. Intakes from reputable brands are typically designed and tested to deliver optimal performance, while cheaper, generic intakes might not provide the same benefits. Proper installation is crucial for achieving the expected performance gains. If the intake is not installed correctly, it can lead to air leaks or other issues that can reduce performance. To maximize the benefits of your new intake, consider getting a professional tune. A tune can optimize your engine's air-fuel ratio and timing to take full advantage of the increased airflow, resulting in even greater horsepower and torque gains. Remember, performance gains are not the only benefit of upgrading your intake. You'll also likely enjoy a more aggressive engine sound and a cleaner-looking engine bay. By understanding the expected performance gains and taking steps to optimize your setup, you can get the most out of your new intake and enhance the driving experience of your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan.