Does your 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 feel a little… sluggish? You love your truck, but maybe you’ve noticed it doesn’t quite have the pep it used to, especially when you’re pulling a load or accelerating. You’ve heard about Cold Air Intakes, those shiny upgrades that promise more power and better fuel economy. But diving into the world of them can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many brands, so many claims, and figuring out what’s best for your specific truck can be a real headache. You want to give your Silverado a boost, but you don’t want to waste money or install something that doesn’t work.
That’s where we come in. This blog post is your straightforward guide to choosing the perfect Cold Air Intake for your 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500. We’ll break down what you need to know, cut through the jargon, and help you understand the real benefits. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident about picking an intake that will make your Silverado run stronger and sound better. Get ready to unlock your truck’s full potential!
Top Cold Air Intake For 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 Recommendations
No. 1
EVIL ENERGY Cold Air Intake Compatible for 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L/6.2L, Includes Heat Shield & Pre-Filter, Black
- [Compatibility] - EVIL ENERGY cold air intake compatible for 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L/6.2L. Please be sure to check compatibility. Installs in 40 minutes with basic tools
- [Stay Road-Ready] - Unlock your engine’s potential with the EVIL ENERGY cold air intake system. Enjoy a smooth and confident driving feel across varied road conditions. The intake system supports steady vehicle operation during highway cruising, uphill driving, and load-carrying conditions
- [High-Efficiency Air Filter] - The multi-layer synthetic non-woven air filter delivers over 98% filtration efficiency and is fully washable and reusable. The pre-filter blocks larger particles to extend the filter life in dusty environments
- [Cold Air Delivery]- The cold air intake kit features aluminum tube with smooth walls and precision. A steel heat shield blocks engine heat, delivering cooler
- [Hear the Engine Roar] - Hear your engine’s true sound with a deeper, more aggressive tone under acceleration, while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride at cruising speeds. Enjoy the perfect blend of performance and refinement
No. 2
Rough Country Cold Air Intake | For 2014-2018 Chevy/GMC 1500, 5.3L/6.2L Engine, Washable Reusable Filter
- Increase Power & Performance: Free-flowing intake design delivers cooler, denser air to help increase horsepower, improve throttle response, and provide stronger acceleration.
- Maximize Airflow Efficiency: Large-diameter intake tubing and a high-flow cylindrical filter improve airflow over the restrictive factory airbox, helping your engine breathe easier and perform more efficiently.
- Washable & Reusable Air Filter: Premium high-flow filter provides excellent filtration without restricting airflow and can be cleaned, re-oiled, and reused for long-term performance.
- Simple Bolt-On Installation: Engineered to use factory mounting locations with no cutting or permanent modifications required for a straightforward performance upgrade.
- Built for Lasting Performance: Premium materials withstand engine heat, vibration, daily driving, and off-road use for dependable performance mile after mile. Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
$129.95
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No. 3
Rough Country Cold Air Intake
- Increase Power & Performance: Free-flowing intake design delivers cooler, denser air to help increase horsepower, improve throttle response, and provide stronger acceleration.
- Maximize Airflow Efficiency: Large-diameter intake tubing and a high-flow cylindrical filter improve airflow over the restrictive factory airbox, helping your engine breathe easier and perform more efficiently.
- Washable & Reusable Air Filter: Premium high-flow filter provides excellent filtration without restricting airflow and can be cleaned, re-oiled, and reused for long-term performance.
- Added Pre-Filter Protection: Included pre-filter provides an extra layer of protection against dust, sand, mud, and debris, helping extend air filter cleaning intervals while maintaining excellent airflow.
- Built for Lasting Performance: Premium materials withstand engine heat, vibration, daily driving, and off-road use for dependable performance mile after mile. Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
$129.95
Buy on Amazon
No. 4
EVIL ENERGY Cold Air Intake Compatible for 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500
- [Compatibility] - EVIL ENERGY cold air intake compatible for 2014-2020 Chevy Silverado 1500/Suburban/Tahoe, 2014-2020 GMC Sierra 1500/Yukon, 2015-2020 CADILLAC Escalade. Please be sure to check compatibility. Installation takes around 40 minutes
- [Stay Road-Ready] - Unlock your engine’s potential with the EVIL ENERGY cold air intake system. Enjoy a smooth and confident driving feel across varied road conditions. The intake system supports steady vehicle operation during highway cruising, uphill driving, and load-carrying conditions
- [High-Efficiency Air Filter] - The multi-layer synthetic non-woven air filter delivers over 98% filtration efficiency and is fully washable and reusable. The pre-filter blocks larger particles to extend the filter life in dusty environments
- [Cold Air Delivery]- The cold air intake kit features aluminum tube with smooth walls and precision. A steel heat shield blocks engine heat, delivering cooler
- [Hear the Engine Roar] - Hear your engine’s true sound with a deeper, more aggressive tone under acceleration, while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride at cruising speeds. Enjoy the perfect blend of performance and refinement
No. 5
BAGARAATAN Cold Air Intake for 2014-2019 Chevy/GMC/Cadillac 5.3L 6.2L V8 BK
- 【Function】This cold air intake system designed to increasing 8-10% horsepower & 6-10% torque.Fit for 2015-2020 Tahoe with 5.3L V8 Engine; Fit for 2015-2020 GMC Yukon/Yukon XL with 5.3L V8 Engine; Fit for 2015-2020 GMC Yukon Denali/Denali XL with 6.2L V8 Engine; Fit for 2019 Silverado 1500 Limited with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine; Fit for 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Limited with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine; (Fits Automatic and Manual Transmission),Will not fit Hybrid
- 【Application】Air Intake Pipe Fit for 2014-2018 Silverado 1500 with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine; Fit for 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine; Fit for 2015-2020 Cadillac Escalade with 6.2L V8 Engine; Fit for 2015-2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV with 6.2L V8 Engine; Fit for 2015-2020 Suburban with 5.3L V8 Engine
- 【Heat Shield 】Triple Reinforced Silicone Able to Withstand High Heat and Pressure, Will Reduce Vibration Transfer Due to Hard Impact Shifting or Engine movement
- 【Features】The air intake kit can help your engine to draw in more cold air resulting in better throttle response and higher explosive horsepower output. The heat shield protects the filter from dirt and debris and to keep hot underhood air away from the element for a cooler intake air charge
- 【Package Included 】1 x 4inch Powder coated steel Pipe，1x High Flow Air Filter (Washable and Reusable)，1x Powder coated steel heat shield
No. 6
3.5 Inch Cold Air Intake Kit W/ + Heat Shield High Performance for Chevy Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L/6.2L 2014-2018;Fit for Cadillac Escalade 6.2L 2015-2020 (Black & Red)
- 【Compatible with】Fit for Silverado 1500 with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine 2014-2018 ; Fit for GMC Sierra 1500 with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine 2014-2018; Fit for Cadillac Escalade with 6.2L V8 Engine 2015-2020; Fit for Cadillac Escalade ESV with 6.2L V8 Engine 2015-2020; Fit for Suburban with 5.3L V8 Engine 2015-2020;
- 【Compatible with】Fit for Tahoe with 5.3L V8 Engine 2015-2020; Fit for GMC Yukon/Yukon XL with 5.3L V8 Engine 2015-2020; Fit for GMC Yukon Denali/Denali XL with 6.2L V8 Engine 2015-2020; Fit for Silverado 1500 Limited with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine 2019; Fit for GMC Sierra 1500 Limited with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine 2019; (Fits Automatic and Manual Transmission),Will not fit Hybrid
- 【Boosted Power & Torque】 Unlock your engine's full potential with an optimized cold air intake. Experience increased horsepower for sharper acceleration and stronger performance at high speeds. Enhanced torque delivers more responsive throttle control and improved pulling power when climbing or hauling.
- 【Reusable High-Efficiency Filter】 The multi-layer cotton filter delivers over 98% filtration efficiency and is fully reusable. Simply clean it every 100,000 miles to keep your engine protected from contaminants. A pre-filter helps block larger debris, extending filter life in dusty conditions.
- 【High-Flow Tube】 The system features a large-diameter aluminum intake tube with smooth walls and precision bends to minimize airflow resistance. A steel heat shield blocks engine heat, directing cooler, denser air into the engine for more efficient combustion.
No. 7
Cold Air Intake Fit for 2014-2019 Chevy Silverado 1500/ Sierra 1500 5.3L/6.2L, Easy to Install, Increase Horsepower
- Fit for 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2014 GMC Sierra Denali Model with 6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2015-2020 Cadillac Escalade with 6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2015-2020 Cadillac Escalade ESV with 6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban with 5.3L V8 Engine Fit for 2019-2020 Chevrolet Suburban with 6.2L V8 Engine
- Fit for 2015-2020 Chevrolet Tahoe with 5.3L V8 Engine Fit for 2018-2020 Chevrolet Tahoe with 6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2015-2020 GMC Yukon/Yukon XL with 5.3L V8 Engine Fit for 2018-2020 GMC Yukon/Yukon XL with 6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2015-2019 GMC Yukon Denali/Denali XL with 6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Limited with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine Fit for 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Limited with 5.3L/6.2L V8 Engine
- The kit comes with a steel heat shield finished in a durable carbon-black powder coating, ensuring long-lasting protection and great appearance.
- It features an upgraded high-performance cone air filter that is washable and reusable for extended service life.
- This air intake system is engineered to boost horsepower by 7-10% and increase torque by 6-8%.
No. 8
EVIL ENERGY Cold Air Intake Compatible for 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L/6.2L, No Cutting or Drilling Needed, Includes Heat Shield & Pre-Filter, Black
- [Compatibility] - EVIL ENERGY cold air intake compatible for 2014-2018 Chevy Silverado 1500/GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L/6.2L (Not compatible with eAssist). Please be sure to check compatibility. Installs in 40 minutes with basic tools
- [Stay Road-Ready] - Unlock your engine’s potential with the EVIL ENERGY cold air intake system. Enjoy a smooth and confident driving feel across varied road conditions. The intake system supports steady vehicle operation during highway cruising, uphill driving, and load-carrying conditions
- [High-Efficiency Air Filter] - The multi-layer synthetic non-woven air filter delivers over 98% filtration efficiency and is fully washable and reusable. The pre-filter blocks larger particles to extend the filter life in dusty environments
- [Cold Air Delivery]- The cold air intake kit features aluminum tube with smooth walls and precision. A steel heat shield blocks engine heat, delivering cooler
- [Hear the Engine Roar] - Hear your engine’s true sound with a deeper, more aggressive tone under acceleration, while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride at cruising speeds. Enjoy the perfect blend of performance and refinement
Upgrade Your Silverado: The Smart Buyer’s Guide to Cold Air Intakes
Thinking about giving your 2017 Chevy Silverado 1500 a little more pep? A cold air intake might be just the ticket! This guide will help you pick the best one for your truck.
What to Look For: Key Features of a Great Cold Air Intake
When shopping for a cold air intake, keep these important features in mind:
- Increased Airflow: The main goal is to get more cool air into your engine. Look for systems with larger diameter tubing and less restrictive air filters. This helps your engine breathe better.
- Heat Shielding: Your engine bay gets hot. A good cold air intake includes a heat shield. This keeps hot air away from the filter, ensuring you get the coldest air possible. Cold air is denser, which means more oxygen for your engine.
- High-Flow Air Filter: The filter is crucial. Look for reusable filters made from materials like cotton gauze or synthetic fibers. These let more air through than standard paper filters.
- Easy Installation: Most cold air intakes are designed for DIY installation. They usually come with all the necessary hardware and instructions. Check reviews to see how easy others found the process.
- Improved Engine Sound: Many owners report a more aggressive, satisfying engine sound with a cold air intake. This is a nice bonus for some drivers.
Important Materials: What Your Intake is Made Of
The materials used in a cold air intake affect its performance and durability.
-
Tubing Material:
- Polished Aluminum: Looks great and is lightweight. It can reflect some heat.
- Wrinkle Black Powder-Coated Aluminum: Durable and hides engine bay grime. It’s also good at resisting heat.
- Polyethylene or Silicone: These materials are excellent insulators. They don’t conduct heat as much as metal, keeping the air inside cooler.
-
Air Filter Material:
- Cotton Gauze: These are often oiled and offer excellent filtration and airflow. They are washable and reusable.
- Synthetic Dry Filters: These don’t require oiling. They provide great filtration and airflow, and are very easy to maintain.
Factors That Affect Quality
Not all cold air intakes are created equal. Here’s what can make one better than another:
- Design and Fitment: A well-designed intake fits perfectly in your Silverado’s engine bay. Poor fitment can lead to air leaks, which defeat the purpose of a cold air intake.
- Quality of Components: Look for reputable brands that use high-quality tubing, clamps, and filters. Cheap parts can break or fail, costing you more in the long run.
- Dyno Testing and Performance Claims: Some manufacturers provide dyno charts showing horsepower and torque gains. While these can be helpful, remember that real-world gains might vary.
User experience and use cases are also important. Most people install cold air intakes to get a little more power and a better engine sound. It’s a popular modification for trucks used for towing, hauling, or just for everyday driving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will a cold air intake void my warranty?
A: Generally, no. As long as the intake is installed correctly and doesn’t cause any damage, it shouldn’t void your factory warranty. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your dealership.
Q: How much horsepower will I gain?
A: Gains vary depending on the specific intake and your truck’s current condition. You can expect anywhere from 5 to 15 horsepower.
Q: Is a cold air intake difficult to install?
A: Most are designed for easy DIY installation. If you’re comfortable with basic tools, you can likely install it yourself in an hour or two.
Q: Do I need to tune my truck after installing a cold air intake?
A: For most 2017 Silverado 1500 intakes, a tune is not required. The engine’s computer can usually adjust to the increased airflow.
Q: Can I use a cold air intake in rainy weather?
A: Yes, most modern intakes are designed to protect the filter from water. Some systems have specialized covers for very wet conditions.
Q: Will a cold air intake affect my fuel economy?
A: Some drivers report slight improvements in fuel economy, especially when driving conservatively. Others see no significant change.
Q: How often do I need to clean the air filter?
A: This depends on your driving conditions. For normal driving, cleaning every 15,000-30,000 miles is usually sufficient. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: What is the difference between a cold air intake and a short ram intake?
A: A cold air intake places the filter away from the engine in a cooler location. A short ram intake keeps the filter closer to the engine, which can sometimes draw in warmer air.
Q: Are there any downsides to a cold air intake?
A: The main downsides can be increased engine noise (if you don’t like that) and the initial cost. Some argue that the gains are minimal without other modifications.
Q: Which brands are the most reputable?
A: Popular and well-regarded brands include K&N, AEM, Volant, and Spectre. Researching specific models from these brands is recommended.