Hey guys! Are you looking to boost the performance of your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan? A great place to start is with an intake upgrade. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision and get the most out of your G35.

Why Upgrade Your 2007 Infiniti G35 Sedan Intake?

So, why should you even bother upgrading your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan intake? Well, the factory intake system, while decent, is designed with cost-effectiveness and noise reduction in mind. This means it can be restrictive, limiting the amount of air that gets to your engine. And as you probably already know, more air + more fuel = more power! An aftermarket intake can significantly improve airflow, leading to several benefits:

• Increased Horsepower and Torque: This is the most obvious benefit. By allowing your engine to breathe easier, you'll experience a noticeable bump in horsepower and torque, especially in the mid to high RPM range.
• Improved Throttle Response: A less restrictive intake means your engine can respond more quickly to changes in throttle input. This translates to a more engaging and responsive driving experience.
• Enhanced Engine Sound: Let's be honest, who doesn't love a good engine note? Aftermarket intakes often add a more aggressive and sporty sound to your G35.
• Improved Fuel Economy (Potentially): While not always guaranteed, some users report a slight improvement in fuel economy after installing an aftermarket intake. This is because the engine doesn't have to work as hard to draw in air.

Selecting the Right Intake for Your G35

Choosing the right intake for your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan can feel a bit overwhelming, with so many options available. Here's a breakdown of the main types and factors to consider:

• Cold Air Intakes (CAI): These intakes typically place the air filter outside of the engine bay, usually down near the fender or behind the bumper. The idea is to draw in cooler air, as cooler air is denser and contains more oxygen, leading to better combustion. CAIs generally offer the best performance gains but can be more susceptible to water ingestion if you live in an area with heavy rain or flooding. Always consider the climate you live in before deciding on a cold air intake, because if you are living in an area where it often floods you may want to get a short ram intake instead.
• Short Ram Intakes (SRI): Short ram intakes, on the other hand, place the air filter within the engine bay. This makes them easier to install and less prone to water ingestion. However, they can draw in warmer air from the engine bay, which can slightly reduce performance gains compared to a CAI. Short ram intakes can be the perfect option for those looking for performance and convenience, without having to worry about flooding damaging their intake system.
• Material: Intakes are typically made from either aluminum or plastic. Aluminum intakes are more durable and can dissipate heat better, while plastic intakes are lighter and less expensive. When choosing between the two consider what your budget is, and the benefits of each material. For a vehicle like the G35, aluminum is typically the better option, as it is designed for performance.
• Filter Type: Air filters come in a variety of materials, including oiled cotton, dry synthetic, and foam. Oiled cotton filters offer excellent filtration and airflow but require regular cleaning and oiling. Dry synthetic filters are easier to maintain and provide good filtration, while foam filters are typically used in off-road applications. Make sure to get a filter that is specifically designed for your vehicle's intake, and that can properly filter out any debris.

Top Intake Brands for the 2007 Infiniti G35 Sedan

When it comes to aftermarket intakes, several brands have established a reputation for quality and performance. Here are some of the most popular and trusted brands for your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan:

• Stillen: Stillen is a well-known brand in the Infiniti performance market. They offer a variety of intakes for the G35, known for their quality construction and proven performance gains. Their intakes are dyno-tested to ensure optimal results.
• Injen: Injen Technology is another popular choice, offering both cold air and short ram intakes for the G35. Their intakes are designed with advanced airflow technology for maximum performance.
• AEM: AEM is a respected brand in the aftermarket intake industry, offering a range of high-quality intakes for various vehicles, including the G35. Their intakes are known for their durability and performance.
• K&N: K&N is a household name in air filtration, and they also offer aftermarket intakes for the G35. Their intakes are designed to improve airflow and provide excellent filtration.
• Weapon-R: While perhaps not as widely known as some of the other brands, Weapon-R offers affordable intake options for the G35. They are a good option for those on a budget.

Installation: DIY or Professional?

Installing an aftermarket intake on your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some basic mechanical knowledge and tools. Here's a breakdown of what's involved:

• DIY Installation: If you're comfortable working on cars and have the necessary tools (screwdrivers, sockets, wrenches, etc.), you can definitely install an intake yourself. Most intakes come with detailed instructions, and there are plenty of online tutorials available to guide you through the process. However, be prepared to spend a few hours on the installation, and make sure you have a clear understanding of the instructions before you begin. Also, ensure that you have the proper safety equipment when performing the installation, such as gloves and eye protection.
• Professional Installation: If you're not confident in your mechanical abilities, or simply don't have the time or tools, it's best to have a professional install your intake. A qualified mechanic can ensure that the intake is installed correctly and that all connections are properly tightened. While this will cost you more, it can save you time and potential headaches in the long run. A professional installation will also ensure that the intake is installed correctly and will be under warranty.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide (General)

While the exact steps may vary depending on the specific intake you choose, here's a general overview of the installation process:

1. Disconnect the Battery: This is a crucial safety step to prevent any electrical accidents.
2. Remove the Stock Intake: Carefully remove the factory airbox, intake tube, and any associated sensors or components. Be sure to disconnect any hoses or wiring harnesses that are attached to the stock intake.
3. Install the New Intake: Following the manufacturer's instructions, install the new intake components. This typically involves attaching the air filter to the intake tube, connecting the tube to the throttle body, and securing any necessary brackets or hardware.
4. Reconnect Sensors and Hoses: Reconnect any sensors or hoses that were disconnected during the removal process. Make sure all connections are secure and properly tightened.
5. Reconnect the Battery: Once the intake is fully installed, reconnect the battery.
6. Test Drive: Start the engine and take the car for a test drive to ensure that the intake is functioning properly and that there are no leaks or issues. Also, take this time to familiarize yourself with the new sound of your engine.

Important Considerations and Potential Issues

Before you dive into upgrading your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan intake, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor: The MAF sensor is a critical component that measures the amount of air entering the engine. When installing a new intake, be extremely careful not to damage the MAF sensor. Some intakes require you to transfer the MAF sensor from the stock airbox to the new intake tube. Always handle the MAF sensor with care and avoid touching the sensor element.
• Check Engine Light: In some cases, installing an aftermarket intake can trigger the check engine light. This is often due to changes in airflow that the engine control unit (ECU) is not expecting. If this happens, you may need to reset the ECU or have a professional tuner adjust the ECU's settings to accommodate the new intake. A check engine light can also occur if the MAF sensor is not properly installed, or if there is a leak in the intake system.
• Water Ingestion (CAI): As mentioned earlier, cold air intakes are more susceptible to water ingestion. If you live in an area with heavy rain or flooding, you may want to consider a short ram intake instead, or take extra precautions to protect your CAI from water. Hydro locking your engine can cause severe and costly damage, so be careful. Some CAIs come with a bypass valve that can be installed to prevent water from entering the engine.
• CARB Compliance: If you live in California or another state with strict emissions regulations, make sure the intake you choose is CARB (California Air Resources Board) compliant. This means that the intake has been tested and approved for use on your vehicle in that state. Non-CARB compliant intakes may not be legal for street use.

Tuning for Optimal Performance

While an aftermarket intake can provide noticeable performance gains on its own, you can unlock even more power by tuning your engine's ECU to take full advantage of the increased airflow. A professional tuner can adjust the ECU's settings to optimize the air-fuel ratio, ignition timing, and other parameters for the new intake. This can result in even greater horsepower and torque gains, as well as improved throttle response and overall drivability. It is important to have your vehicle tuned by a professional, as an improper tune can actually decrease performance and cause damage to your engine.

Maintaining Your Aftermarket Intake

To ensure that your aftermarket intake continues to perform optimally, it's important to maintain it properly. This typically involves cleaning the air filter regularly, as well as inspecting the intake tube and connections for any leaks or damage. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific maintenance recommendations. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and reduce performance, so it's important to keep it clean. Depending on the type of filter, you may need to clean and oil it every 10,000 to 20,000 miles.

Conclusion

Upgrading your 2007 Infiniti G35 sedan intake is a great way to improve performance, enhance engine sound, and add a touch of personalization to your ride. By carefully considering the different types of intakes, brands, and installation options, you can make an informed decision and get the most out of your G35. So, go ahead and give your G35 the breath of fresh air it deserves!