best cold air intake for dodge dakota
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Best Cold Air Intake for Dodge Dakota – Comparison Chart

Historically, air kits used to be the “weapon of choice” for professional rally drivers. Engine failure due to overheating is a fairly common thing, especially in off-roading in the deserts. In a pro-grade air intake system, the filter is located outside of the engine bay. That ensures a more efficient cold airflow. And these days, thanks to an increase in demand, these systems are also largely available to regular drivers.

So, if you’re a big fan of conquering the wilderness behind the wheel of your trusty pickup truck, you might consider buying one. The best cold air intake for Dodge Dakota will not only keep that powerful engine cool but also maximize performance. You’ll get more HP, torque, and maybe even an improved mileage. So, let’s check out what the market has to offer!

Best Cold Air Intake for Dodge Dakota (Updated March, 2024)

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Editor’s Choice

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower: 50-State Legal: 2000-2004 DODGE (Dakota, Durango)

1) K&N Dodge Dakota Cold Air Intake Kit

  • Best Features:
    • Looks like a million bucks
    • Greatly improves the engine’s sound
    • Protects the engine from contaminants
  • Filter Type: Pre-oiled
  • Power Increase: +8 Hp and 9.4 lbs x ft Torque
  • Fits Models: 2000-2004 Dodge Dakota 4.7L
  • Available Options:
    Dodge Dakota 5.2L 1997
    Dodge Dakota 4.7L 2005-2007

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DNA motoring AIP-CC57L-RD Short Ram Air Intake System

2) Cold Air Intake System by Dynasty Store

  • Best Features:
    • Significantly boosts the filtration efficiency
    • Very easy to wash (with water/soap)
    • Lightweight, yet sturdy and reliable
  • Filter Type: Dry
  • Power Increase: 5-10 HPs, 6-8% power of torque
  • Fits Models:
    2000-2010 Dodge Dakota 4.7L
    2000-2010 Dodge Dakota 3.7L

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Cold Air Intake System with Heat Shield Kit + Filter Combo RED Compatible For 97-98 Dodge Dakota

3) Rtunes Racing Cold Air Intake

  • Best Features:
    • Easy, intuitive installation
    • Decent construction quality
    • Includes everything needed for installation
  • Filter Type: Dry
  • Power Increase: 5-10 HPs, 6-8% Power of Torque
  • Fits Models:
    1997-1999 Dodge Dakota 5.2L
    1998-1999 Dodge Dakota 5.9L

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High Performance Parts Short Ram Air Intake Kit & Black Filter Combo Compatible

4) HPP Cold Air Intake Kit

  • Best Features:
    • T-360 aluminum + stainless steel
    • Comes packed with a detailed user guide
    • Backed by a user-oriented customer service
  • Filter Type: Dry
  • Power Increase: Horsepower and Torque by 6 -10%
  • Fits Models:
    1997-2003 Dodge Dakota 3.9L
    1997-1999 Dodge Dakota 5.2L
    1998-2003 Dodge Dakota 5.9L

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Best Cold Air Intake for Dodge Dakota Review

1. K&N Dodge Dakota 4.7 Cold Air Intake

K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: High Performance, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower: 50-State Legal: 2000-2004 DODGE (Dakota, Durango)

For your Dakota to be the star of the show every time the hood is popped off, K&N’s air kit might a good purchase. It does, indeed, look great thanks to the trademark design. On top of that, the kit significantly improves the engine’s sounds, making it aggressive enough to scare the birds in the forest. It’s also worth mentioning that this air intake system features high-quality cotton fibers.

They were specifically designed to protect against contaminants. Precision engineered and built to last, K&N’s product is one of those can’t-go-wrong-with picks. It will cost you a pretty penny, though, but the price is well justified by all the pros that we just discussed. If you’ve got some basic tools and a proper set of hands, you’ll handle installation on your own in less than two hours.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
5
Mileage
5
Easy to Install
5
Value for Money
4.8
Result
5
Pros & Cons
Looks dashing under the hood
Makes the engine sound just right
Cotton fibers keep contaminants at bay
Not particularly cheap (but worth the price)

Verdict
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Are you ready to invest in a premium-grade, long-lasting aftermarket cold air kit? If the answer is yes, then this may be a reasonable choice. It fits the Dakota perfectly and both looks and sounds good. The price-tag isn’t particularly user-oriented, of course, despite the market-leading quality.

2. Cold Air Intake Systems for Dodge Dakota by Dynasty Store

DNA motoring AIP-CC57L-RD Short Ram Air Intake System

DNA’s air intake kit is bright and eye-catching. It is not as fancy as the one by K&N, but it does, most certainly, bring attention to itself. As for the technical side of things, the AIP intake system has already proven in numerous tests that it boosts air filtration by quite a lot. The filter is very easy to wash. You can use water and some soap for that – no need for specific formulas or anything else.

The build quality is decent, even though the whole thing is quite lightweight. And what about the installation, you might ask? Well, while this air kit was designed for the Dakota, it’s not the easiest fit for the Dodge 4.7-lit engine. You’ll have to extend the harness – it’s a bit too short. Plus, the air hose’s diameter doesn’t match that of the engine. Other than that, it won’t be very hard to mount it.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
4.9
Mileage
4.8
Easy to Install
4.9
Value for Money
5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Largely improves the filtration efficiency
Easily washable without any expensive formulas
Lightweight and durable
Not a perfect fit for the 4.7l engine

Verdict
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Easily washable, lightweight, and durable – that’s this Dynasty Store air intake system in short for you. It does an excellent job of maximizing the filtration efficiency and is available for a very reasonable price. It won’t be a perfect fit for Dakota’s engine, however.

3. Rtunes Racing Dodge Dakota Cold Air Intake Kit

Cold Air Intake System with Heat Shield Kit + Filter Combo RED Compatible For 97-98 Dodge Dakota

If it’s ease of use/installation that you’re after, pay extra attention to what Rtunes Racing has in stores for you. The engineers did an excellent job of making this kit 100% compatible with the Dakota. Please keep in mind that it was designed to go with the older editions of this legendary Dodge truck – the 1997-1999 versions. So, only consider it if you’re driving one of the earlier models.

The package includes all the necessary hoses, reducers, nuts, and bolts. You won’t have to do order any extra parts for this air intake to work. The superb build and material quality are even more reason to consider it over the rivals. Some drivers report minor quality control issues, though. Keep that in mind and always check everything if you’re buying from a physical store.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
4.8
Mileage
4.7
Easy to Install
4.9
Value for Money
4.9
Result
4.8
Pros & Cons
One of the easiest kits to install
Impressive build/material quality
Packs everything needed for mounting/assembly
Minor quality control issues

Best Cold Air Intake for Dodge Dakota

Verdict
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This Rtunes Racing air kit is generously-packed, easy to install, and boasts above-average construction quality. In some ways, it’s quite simple and straightforward, but that’s more of a pro rather than a con. This product will serve you for many years and keep the engine’s temperature levels in control.

4. HPP Cold Air Intake Kit

High Performance Parts Short Ram Air Intake Kit & Black Filter Combo Compatible

This company was founded by two brothers and has been around for more than two decades. They know their craft and deliver only premium-grade aftermarket parts at an affordable price. The HPP cold air intake is made from the finest-quality materials – T-360 aluminum and (industrial-grade) stainless steel. Plus, the buyers will get one of the most detailed and helpful installation guides.

Personally, I was impressed by the customer service. The support agents are quick to respond and quite eager to lend that helping hand. The shipments do take a bit long to arrive, however, especially if you’re living in the suburbs.

Product Rating
Performance Increase
4.9
Mileage
4.7
Easy to Install
4.9
Value for Money
5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Crafted from T-360 aluminum and stainless steel
A helpful installation manual included
One of the best customer support services
Might take a long time to arrive

Best Cold Air Intake for Dodge Dakota

Verdict
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HPP’s cold air intake system doesn’t have any significant cons except for the slow delivery. As for the pros, it’s crafted from top-notch materials and will be (relatively) easy to install. Dakota owners in the market for a capable air kit will probably find it to be worth the money.

Conclusion

Dakota drivers that want their engines to have an increased lifespan might want to consider investing in a good-quality air intake system. As I mentioned in the beginning, it’s not rare for the most powerful engines to overheat due to a lack of proper airflow. I spent a lot of time compiling this list; so, no matter which product you end up buying, it will most certainly be a reasonable purchase.

Some of the offers are more affordable, while others put quality first and will appeal to wealthier customers. K&N’s air intake kit isn’t particularly cheap, but it does have a couple of trumps up its sleeve. DNA has the most affordable option, while the other two systems are the closest thing to the golden middle. Take your pick, and share your experience in the comments!

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