AEM Cold Air Intake Adds Estimated 17 HP to 2016 and 2017 Chevrolet Malibu 2.0 Turbo

The Cold Air Intake Kit also accommodates the engine’s factory emissions control devices

The cold air intake kit is comprised of the aluminum intake tube, heat shield, and Dryflow filter

For the 2013 model year, Chevrolet introduced the revised GM LTG engine into the Chevrolet Malibu. The engine is the 3rd Generation of EcoTec motors and the same engine was also utilized in the Cadillac ATS. The four cylinder, all-aluminum engine displaces 2.0 liters with a square bore - stroke configuration of 86 mm to 86 mm. The LTG engine uses a twin-scroll turbocharger to minimize turbo lag, air-to-air intercooler, direct fuel injection along with continuously variable valve timing, a stainless steel exhaust manifold capable of withstanding the 1800°F turbine temperature, forged connecting rods with a drop-forged steel crank, and a rotacast aluminum alloy cylinder head with sodium-filled exhaust valves.

In 2013, the LTG 2.0L engine was launched producing 259 horsepower. However, in 2016, Chevrolet reduced the power rating to 250 horsepower. So owners of 2016 and 2017 Chevrolet Malibu sedans with the 2.0L turbocharged engine are at a 9 horsepower disadvantage to prior model years.

In evaluating the air intake GM installed at the factory, it was clear to AEM engineers there was room for improvement. AEM then developed 21-803C cold air intake system for the LTG engine as installed in the Malibu. The new system generated an estimated 17 horsepower – at the rear wheels. This more than compensates for the 9 horsepower loss for 2016 and 2017 models.

The heat shield and filter are designed to be located in the original air box space

The heat shield isolates the filter from underhood heat, allowing only cold air to flow to the motor

What AEM engineers created was a cold air intake system that relocates the filter to an area of the engine compartment where it’s best able to draw cool outside air. Cooler air carries additional oxygen into the combustion chamber which creates incremental horsepower and torque. And with a turbocharger packing air in even tighter, it makes that much more power.

But that's only part of the power equation. Tuning the inlet pipe in length and diameter helps move more air to the turbocharger. During development, fuel trim monitor correction factors and all OBD II sensors are tested to eliminate leaning out the engine or activating a check engine light.

The AEM 21-803C cold air intake is a relatively inexpensive DIY modification that takes only a couple of hours to install with common hand tools. It comes with the necessary clamps and hardware for an OEM-type appearance. Plus OEM mounting brackets and hardware are utilized for seamless installation with no drilling required.

The filter can be used for up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is needed (depending on conditions)

The 21-2113DK AEM Dryflow air filter is engineered for increased airflow and comes ready to use

The filter itself is a tapered conical 21-2113DK AEM Dryflow non-woven synthetic washable unit which provides outstanding air flow, filtration, and performance. The air intake tube is constructed from mandrel-bent aluminum tubing finished in a durable gunmetal gray powdercoat. Further, this air intake system was designed so that the Malibu engine’s factory emissions control devices including the mass air flow sensor and engine vent lines fit right on.

The AEM air filter is good for 100,000 miles before requiring service (depending upon your driving conditions) so if you drive in dusty conditions, your filter may require more frequent maintenance. Cleaning consists of an application of 1-1000 AEM Synthetic Air Filter Cleaner which will loosen and dissolve grime and dirt build up, after which the filter can simply be rinsed with water and reinstalled once dry. No messy oiling required!

The AEM 21-803C cold air intake is designed and engineered for the following vehicles:

2017 CHEVROLET MALIBU 2.0L L4 Fuel Injection - All Models
2016 CHEVROLET MALIBU 2.0L L4 Fuel Injection - All Models

clear

AEM PRODUCT SEARCH     WHERE TO BUY AEM