Does your 2019 Ram 1500 feel a little… sluggish? Maybe you’ve heard whispers about a secret weapon that can unlock more power and a better sound from your truck. That weapon is a cold air intake, and while it sounds simple, choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze. You want to give your Ram the best, but with so many brands and styles out there, it’s easy to get confused. What if you pick one that doesn’t fit right, or worse, doesn’t actually give you the performance boost you’re hoping for?
Fear not, fellow Ram owner! In this post, we’re going to cut through the noise. We’ll explore exactly why a cold air intake is a smart upgrade for your 2019 Ram 1500 and what makes it so special. We’ll talk about the benefits you can expect, from a little extra pep in your step to that satisfying rumble you’ve been craving. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for, helping you make a confident choice that will have your Ram breathing easier and performing better.
Top Cold Air Intake For 2019 Ram 1500 Recommendations
- [Compatibility] - EVIL ENERGY cold air intake Compatible for 2019 2020 2021 2022 2013 2024 Dodge RAM 1500 5.7L. 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
- Boost Horsepower and Throttle Response: Increase engine power and throttle sensitivity with Rough Country’s Cold Air Intake kit. It delivers cool, oxygen-rich air to increase HP, torque, acceleration, and overall engine performance.
- Optimized Airflow for Cooler Combustion: Delivers cooler, denser air to the engine for better combustion and overall performance. Its cylindrical design and large-diameter tube improves airflow over stock air filters.
- Durable, High-Quality Construction: Built for heavy-duty driving, this intake system uses a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) tube for increased airflow and includes a molded heat shield to protect intake air from engine heat.
- Reusable High-Performance Air Filter: Includes a premium multi-layer air filter that’s easy to clean and protects your engine from harmful particles and debris.
- Simple to Install: Installs in a snap for an instant increase in performance, backed by Rough Country’s limited lifetime warranty.
- Dyno-Proven Performance: Dyno-proven to deliver a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque on your engine's stock tune. Experience the exciting roar of your engine during acceleration, without any drone at cruising speeds.
- NextGen Airbox: The NextGen hybrid airbox features an enlarged factory fresh air inlet that is designed to improves airflow, lower inlet air temperatures, and deliver more fresh air to the engine. The air box adds an extra level of protection from contaminants, helping provide more clean air to your engine.
- Oversized Air Filter: An oversized air filter features an increased surface area and a radius-entry design, both engineered to increase airflow and enhance performance.
- Large-Diameter Tube: The large-diameter, CAD-designed intake tube features strategically positioned air channels that increase airflow, boosting airspeed and delivering more air to your engine for added performance.
- Precision-Engineering: Each NextGen intake is precisely engineered for your vehicle, enhancing the style of your engine bay while increasing horsepower, torque, and airflow. Every detail of the intake system is thoughtfully designed to deliver performance and a sleek, finished look under your hood.
- [Compatibility] - EVIL ENERGY cold air intake compatible for 2009-2010 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L, for 2009-2010 Dodge Ram 1500 TRX 5.7L, for 2011-2018 Ram 1500, for 2019-2023 Ram 1500 Classic 5.7L. 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
- GUARANTEED INCREASE IN HORSEPOWER & TORQUE: K&N cold air intake systems provide a less restrictive path for airflow, increasing the volume of cool, oxygen-rich air into your engine.
- DYNO TESTING YOU CAN TRUST: K&N air intake horsepower/torque testing is performed on wheel-based dynamometers and the reports are included with each intake system.
- IMPROVED ENGINE SOUND - HEAR THE GROWL: K&N’s intake systems allow your engine to breathe and sound as it should- your engine will growl on acceleration and return to quiet once at speed.
- BETTER TOWING: K&N Air intake kit improves acceleration and uphill performance when towing by improving throttle response, overall horsepower and torque. Excellent for daily and highway driving.
- PREMIUM ENGINE PROTECTION FROM A TRUSTED BRAND: K&N air intake will not void manufacturer vehicle warranty & No-Hassle Lifetime Limited Warranty protects for the life of your vehicle.
- GUARANTEED INCREASE IN HORSEPOWER & TORQUE: K&N cold air intake systems provide a less restrictive path for airflow, increasing the volume of cool, oxygen-rich air into your engine.
- DYNO TESTING YOU CAN TRUST: K&N air intake horsepower/torque testing is performed on wheel-based dynamometers and the reports are included with each intake system.
- IMPROVED ENGINE SOUND - HEAR THE GROWL: K&N’s intake systems allow your engine to breathe and sound as it should- your engine will growl on acceleration and return to quiet once at speed.
- BETTER TOWING: K&N Air intake kit improves acceleration and uphill performance when towing by improving throttle response, overall horsepower and torque. Excellent for daily and highway driving.
- PREMIUM ENGINE PROTECTION FROM A TRUSTED BRAND: K&N air intake will not void manufacturer vehicle warranty & No-Hassle Lifetime Limited Warranty protects for the life of your vehicle.
- Boost Horsepower and Throttle Response: Increase engine power and throttle sensitivity with Rough Country’s Cold Air Intake kit. It delivers cool, oxygen-rich air to increase HP, torque, acceleration, and overall engine performance.
- Optimized Airflow for Cooler Combustion: Delivers cooler, denser air to the engine for better combustion and overall performance. Its cylindrical design and large-diameter tube improves airflow over stock air filters.
- Durable, High-Quality Construction: Built for heavy-duty driving, this intake system uses a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) tube for increased airflow and includes a molded heat shield to protect intake air from engine heat.
- Reusable High-Performance Air Filter: Includes a premium multi-layer air filter that’s easy to clean and protects your engine from harmful particles and debris.
- Simple Install & Fitment: Installs in a snap for an instant increase in performance. Only fits 5.7L engines, does not fit 5.7L eTorque engines or Classic models.
- Gain increased horsepower and throttle response
- Circulates cooler air which is denser and produces increase in power by bringing more oxygen into the combustion chamber
- Premium, reusable air filter
- Easy at Home Installation and Support Provided by RC.
- Backed by Rough Country's Limited Lifetime Replacement Warranty.
Cold Air Intake for Your 2019 Ram 1500: Breathe Easier, Drive Better
Your 2019 Ram 1500 is a beast, and like any powerful machine, it needs to breathe. A cold air intake system helps your truck’s engine do just that, but better! It replaces your restrictive factory airbox with a smoother, more efficient path for cooler, denser air. This guide will help you pick the best one to unleash your Ram’s full potential.
Key Features to Look For
1. Improved Airflow Design
The best cold air intakes have a large, conical air filter. This shape allows more air to enter the engine. Look for smooth, large-diameter intake tubes. These tubes let air flow freely without bumping into obstacles. A well-designed system won’t restrict your engine’s breathing.
2. Heat Shielding
This is super important. Your engine gets hot. A good heat shield keeps hot air away from the intake filter. It creates a barrier between the hot engine bay and the cool air your intake wants to suck in. Some intakes have a full box, while others have a partial shield. A full box usually offers better protection.
3. Filter Type
You’ll see two main types: oiled and dry filters. Oiled filters use a thin layer of oil to trap dirt. They offer excellent filtration and can be reused many times. Dry filters use special synthetic material to catch dust. They are often easier to clean and don’t require oiling. Both can work well, but follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
4. Fitment and Installation
Make sure the intake is designed specifically for the 2019 Ram 1500. A good kit will include all the necessary mounting hardware and connectors. Easy installation means you can get back on the road faster. Look for systems that don’t require any permanent modifications to your truck.
Important Materials
1. Intake Tubing
Most quality intakes use aluminum or high-density plastic (like ABS). Aluminum is lightweight and can help dissipate heat. Plastic is also durable and good at preventing heat soak. Avoid flimsy materials that can crack or warp.
2. Air Filter Media
High-quality filters use cotton gauze (for oiled filters) or specialized synthetic fibers (for dry filters). These materials are designed for maximum airflow and efficient particle capture. Cheap filters might use lower-quality materials that don’t last as long or filter as well.
3. Heat Shield Construction
Heat shields are often made from powder-coated steel or aluminum. The powder coating adds a protective layer and looks good. A sturdy shield will prevent vibrations and ensure a tight seal against the engine bay.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
1. Air Filter Efficiency
A filter that traps more dirt keeps your engine cleaner. This leads to better performance over time. A cheap filter might let more dust through, potentially harming your engine.
2. Airflow Restriction
Smooth, large-diameter tubing is key. Any sharp bends or constrictions in the tube will slow down the air. This reduces the “cold air” effect and can hurt performance. The factory intake is often very restrictive.
3. Seal Quality
A good heat shield must seal properly. If there are gaps, hot engine air can still get into the filter. This defeats the purpose of a cold air intake. Look for tight seals and good quality gaskets.
4. Durability
The materials used directly impact how long the intake will last. Stronger plastics and metals will resist damage from vibrations, heat, and road debris. A well-built intake is an investment that pays off.
User Experience and Use Cases
1. Everyday Driving
Many owners report a noticeable improvement in throttle response. The truck feels more eager to accelerate. You might also hear a more aggressive, satisfying engine sound when you step on the gas. This makes daily commutes more enjoyable.
2. Towing and Hauling
When you’re pulling a trailer or carrying a heavy load, your engine works harder. A cold air intake helps it breathe easier, providing more power. This can make towing feel less like a struggle and improve your truck’s ability to maintain speed.
3. Performance Enthusiasts
For those who want to squeeze every bit of power from their Ram, a cold air intake is a common first modification. It works well with other upgrades like exhaust systems and tuning. It’s a foundational step for better performance.
4. Fuel Economy (Potentially)
While not the primary goal, some users report slight improvements in fuel economy. When the engine breathes more efficiently, it can sometimes use fuel more effectively. However, this can vary greatly depending on driving habits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will a cold air intake void my Ram 1500’s warranty?
A: In most cases, no. If the intake is installed correctly and doesn’t cause any engine problems, it shouldn’t void your warranty. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your dealer.
Q: Do I need to tune my truck after installing a cold air intake?
A: For most 2019 Ram 1500 cold air intakes, a tune is not required. The system is designed to work with your truck’s factory computer. However, for maximum performance gains, a tune is often recommended.
Q: How often do I need to clean or replace the air filter?
A: This depends on the filter type and your driving conditions. Oiled filters might need cleaning every 30,000-50,000 miles, while dry filters might last longer before needing replacement. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: Will a cold air intake make my Ram sound louder?
A: Yes, generally it will. You’ll likely notice a more pronounced intake sound, especially when accelerating. Some people find this sound appealing.
Q: Can I install a cold air intake myself?
A: Yes, most cold air intake kits are designed for DIY installation. They usually come with clear instructions and all the necessary parts. If you’re not comfortable with basic car maintenance, a professional can install it for you.
Q: What’s the difference between a cold air intake and a short ram intake?
A: A cold air intake draws air from outside the engine bay, usually from a cooler location. A short ram intake draws air from within the engine bay, which is typically warmer. Cold air intakes generally offer better performance.
Q: Will a cold air intake improve horsepower and torque?
A: Yes, it can. By allowing more cool, dense air into the engine, it can lead to modest gains in horsepower and torque. The exact gains vary by intake design and engine.
Q: Are there any downsides to a cold air intake?
A: The main potential downside is if the filter isn’t properly sealed, hot engine air can be drawn in, reducing performance. Also, some oiled filters can potentially allow too much oil onto the mass air sensor if over-oiled, causing issues. Following instructions is key.
Q: What is the typical price range for a 2019 Ram 1500 cold air intake?
A: You can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $400 or more, depending on the brand, materials, and features. Higher-end brands often use premium materials and offer more advanced designs.
Q: How much of a performance increase can I expect?
A: For a 2019 Ram 1500, you might see gains of around 5-15 horsepower and a similar increase in torque. These are estimates, and actual results can vary.