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Matt Coffman Continues to Battle in the 2018 Formula Drift Season

Matt Coffman has one of the most distinctive vehicles currently in the Formula Drift Pro Series circuit—a Nissan S13 featuring one of the oldest, most developed chassis currently on the FD track.

Matt Coffman's Nissan S13

Matt Coffman's Nissan S13 in action

Coffman grew up in Oregon, and developed his love for drifting on the lush forest roads of his home state. “I lived in a very small town,” he commented. “For about a hundred miles outside of town are the most gorgeous, lush, spectacular rally forest roads and mountains that you can imagine. Having my frustrations in my youth, I ended up driving into the forest and started drifting around on the dirt roads. That’s where I started to learn. There was a little drift series that started in my hometown, and I thought—that looks like a lot of fun.”

Nissan S13

The S13 was completely rebuilt in the off-season

Coffman purchased the Nissan S13 back in 2011, and began competing in a regional drifting series that same year. In 2012, he began competing in Northern California at the ThunderDrift ProAm, and started competing up and down the west coast in 2013. After placing in the Golden Gate Drift Series, he earned his Formula Drift Pro license. He had a rough rookie year—struggling to make it out of the Top 32—but tenacity and hard work resulted in a break into the Top 16 in 2015. Coffman and his team, ever persistent, continued practicing and competing regularly—knowing that success would follow experience and a strong work ethic.

Matt Coffman signing autographs

Coffman enjoys engaging with his fans at events

Coffman earned his first Top 8 appearance in 2016 in Montreal, followed by a Top 4 in Washington a few weeks later, eventually qualifying 15th for the 2017 season. The new year brought continued successes, with Coffman finishing the season strong in 10th place.

In the off-season, Coffman and his team fully rebuilt the S13, which debuted at the opening round of the 2018 season in Long Beach, California. Though Coffman has earned strong qualifying scores this season—qualifying 16th for Long Beach, and 20th for Orlando—the first four rounds have proven challenging, with multiple One More Time showdowns and a clutch issue in the most recent round in Wall, New Jersey.

The Nissan S13

The S13 features a distinctive purple design

“What brought me from four years ago to today is not giving up on myself,” he mused. “There were so many times when I could have, and I wanted to, and it would have made sense to just give up. But thinking of a life without drifting—it felt like I was going to lose a massive piece of myself if I didn’t continue. It’s passion that’s kept me going all these years.”

Coffman continues to show resolve and persistence, battling the top Formula Drift contenders. K&N continues to support Coffman in his quest for the podium. “I run individual throttle bodies on my motor,” Coffman explained, “And something that’s interesting about ITBs is that when you run individual filters—or if it has an internal screen or something like that—they will create different atmospheres and will lose power at the top end or gain power at the low end depending on which filter you use. The K&N sprint car air box filter was the only filter that didn’t create an atmosphere that would distract from the motor, and is the only one that performs absolutely top-notch from the low end to the top end.”

Coffman is currently in 18th place in the Pro Series standings. James Deane, Frederic Aasbo, and Chris Forsberg currently top the leaderboard.

You can see Matt Coffman on July 20-21 at Round 5 of the Formula Drift Pro Series in Monroe, Washington.

12 Ways to Extend the Lifespan of Your Vehicle

Many modern vehicles are designed to be capable of operating for 200,000 miles or more—but how can you give your car the best chance of getting there? Whether you’re looking to drive your car for the next few years—or for the rest of its natural life—following a few basic tips can help reduce maintenance issues, maintain re-sale value, and even add years of operating life.

CLEAN YOUR ENGINE

Clean engine bay

Clean the exterior of your engine annually to prevent overheating

Keeping the exterior of your engine clean can help you spot leaks before they become serious. Layers of dirt and engine bay grime can hide drips, and can even create an unintentional coating of insulation that can result in your engine running hot—leading to engine damage. Excess crud can also cause corrosion, dramatically shortening your engine’s working lifespan. If you feel like giving it a go yourself, there are plenty of options for engine cleaning/degreasing products on the market, or you can hire a professional. Try to schedule a thorough cleaning at least once yearly.

KEEP YOUR KEYS LIGHT


To avoid damaging your ignition, limit the number of items on your keyring

A heavy keychain can wear out the tumblers in your ignition over time, and can sometimes cause enough damage to prevent your key from engaging the ignition—resulting in an expensive call to a locksmith. Decorative keychains, flashlights, and bottle openers can all add weight to your keyring—so either keep your ignition key separate, or downsize your keyring as much as possible.

TRACK YOUR SERVICE SCHEDULE

Familiarize yourself with your owner’s manual, and take note of the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Keep a small notebook in your glove box to take note of any services or repairs—including oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations, and gas mileage. Sticking to the recommended service schedule will help keep your vehicle running smoothly, and if you decide to sell, buyers will appreciate evidence that you’ve performed consistent maintenance.

CHECK YOUR TIRES FOR INFLATION AND WEAR


Tires should typically be rotated every five to ten thousand miles

Your owner’s manual will likely include the recommended interval for tire rotations—typically every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. Regular rotations help the tires wear evenly over their lifespan, particularly if you have a front-wheel drive vehicle, and can prevent front-end misalignment. You also want to ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended levels; underinflated tires can cause tread wear and reduce gas mileage, while overinflated tires can result in a loss of traction while also causing premature wear.

REPLACE YOUR AIR FILTER


K&N High-Flow Air Filters are specially designed to provide your engine with increased performance

Your engine air filter protects your engine from contaminants that can cause damage—and is a sometimes-overlooked aspect of necessary regular maintenance. If you choose a disposable filter, it typically needs to be replaced every 15,000 miles or so. K&N High-Flow Air Filters are washable and reusable, and are designed to last for the entire life of your vehicle—so you can enjoy the convenience of only servicing your filter every 50,000 miles under normal highway driving conditions.

BUY GOOD GAS


Make sure you’re filling up with high-quality gasoline

Fuel companies add EPA-approved additives and detergents to their fuel in order to prevent the build-up of carbon deposits that can degrade your engine’s performance. To ensure you’re providing your engine with clean gas, look for Top Tier™ gasoline—a designation that ensures companies are exceeding the minimum additive standard. Preventing fuel build-up can extend the life of your engine dramatically!

CHANGE YOUR OIL AND OIL FILTER REGULARLY


Your oil filter should typically be swapped out at least every other oil change, though changing it every time is ideal. Oil filters contain almost a quart of oil, which—if dirty—can contaminate your freshly changed, clean oil. Many late model car manufacturers recommend long service intervals of 5,000-10,000 miles, so be sure you are using a high-quality oil filter that can go the distance. K&N Performance Gold® oil filters are made with a heavy-duty canister and premium filter media to hold up to the demands of extended use. Always use the oil viscosity grade that your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends—which may vary according to the season.

DON’T NEGLECT FLUID LEVELS

Don’t neglect other fluids—your transmission fluid, radiator coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid all require periodic servicing and replacement according to your manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. It’s a good idea to check all your fluids regularly to help catch any leaks or problems early.

Silver hatchback with sunset

Following your vehicle’s recommended service schedule will help keep you on the road longer

KEEP YOUR CAR CLEAN

Keeping your car clean is an important aspect of maintaining your car’s paint job and body. Salt, in particular, can cause serious rust damage and corrosion—which can eventually creep into the structural components of your vehicle, resulting in thousands of dollars of damage. Wash your car regularly, and if you live in an area where it's frequently exposed to salt—near the beach, or where roads are salted in winter—make sure to give your vehicle’s undercarriage a thorough cleaning with each wash.

PAY ATTENTION

Be aware of new sounds and vibrations. Every couple of weeks, take a minute to roll down your windows as you’re driving around town, and listen for anything out of the ordinary. Squeaks, rattles, and knocks should be investigated and diagnosed. Sound can be one of the first indicators of a problem, and if you catch issues early, you can avoid more serious repairs in the future.

BE PATIENT WITH COLD STARTS

If you let your car sit for more than five hours, you can consider the engine cold—with most of the oil drained into the oil pan. It takes a few seconds after start-up for oil to start circulating through the engine again—meaning you shouldn’t immediately start up and drive off, particularly in cold weather when the oil is more viscous (and moves slower!). Give the engine around 30 seconds to warm up before putting it in gear.


BUDGET FOR REPAIRS

Unexpected car repairs can cause your budget to take a serious hit—which is why it’s important to plan ahead for unforeseen problems in addition to your regular service costs. Setting aside a vehicle-specific emergency fund can help you deal with costly repairs and prevent unnecessary financial stress. If possible, estimate your yearly vehicle costs—including services like oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, and tire rotations—and set aside a bit extra for any unwelcome surprises.

Check out performance parts to help extend the life of your specific vehicle at www.knfilters.com.

K&N®-Sponsored Off-Road Racer Sara Price Earns Top 5 Finish in the Baja 500

Sara Price just completed her first-ever SCORE International BAJA 500—achieving a commendable 5th place finish in the Trophy Truck Spec class with navigator Erica Sacks. The duo completed all 542 miles together, on a course that many are calling the toughest in Baja 500 history. In preparation, Price and her RPM Offroad teammates logged over 1000 practice miles before the official race even began.

Sara Price and Erica Sacks

Sara Price and Erica Sacks

Price and Sacks battled fuel pump issues during the race, but the RPM Offroad team was able to execute quick repairs that kept the truck on the course without further issues—allowing them to finish in 14 hours and 47 minutes.

“It was amazing to be able to perform like we did at the 500,” Price commented. “It’s a lifelong dream to be able to complete that race—and to not only drive the whole thing, but also to finish in the top five. Erica and I pre-ran the course and made sure our notes were as detailed as possible. We were focused on being smart and consistent, and along with our incredible team, RPM Offroad and Geiser Brothers, we kept the truck together until the finish line.”

Price's trophy truck

Price's trophy truck

Price will continue to compete in the SCORE International series in the Trophy Truck Spec class under Team RPM Offroad. The SCORE International series includes many desert races on the Baja California Peninsula, including the San Felipe 250, the Baja 500, and the Baja 1000.

Price began racing at the age of eight, and collected nineteen amateur titles in motocross—the most wins of any female amateur to date—going on to medal in the Women’s Super X at the 2010 X Games. She was also the first factory-supported female racer to join Kawasaki. “I believe in actions,” Price noted, “And with that comes respect for your hard work, dedication, and results. Female or male—when that helmet goes on, we are racers.”

Sara Price

Price is a veteran racer in both motocross and off-road

She earned second-place overall in the side-by-side championship of the 2015 Lucas Oil Regional Series, and won the Terracross Championship that same year. In 2016, Price was the first woman to lead laps in the Robby Gordon Stadium SUPER Truck Series, and was named the 2016 Off-Road Motorsports Hall of Fame Rising Star—a prestigious honor intended to recognize remarkable talent. She has also worked as a professional stuntwoman and precision driver for television and film.

K&N has been a supporter of Price since early in her career. “K&N’s been amazing," she noted. "They’ve been with me from the very beginning. I use the products on every vehicle I have—even on my daily driver, I have a K&N intake installed. You get the most horsepower, and you can trust it—you’re protected.”

Look for Sara Price in the SCORE Tijuana Desert Challenge, taking place from September 19-23 in Tijuana, Mexico.

K&N Donates Performance Parts for Jeep Build Benefiting Santa Fe ECO School

Front view of the Jeep Wrangler

The Wrangler features a K&N snorkel system for off-road adventures

For the past few months, students in the automotive technology program at Santa Fe Early College Opportunities School (Santa Fe ECO) have been diligently working on a very special vehicle build—sponsored by SEMA and twenty-three automotive aftermarket companies, including K&N. The vehicle—a highly-customized 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited—features over $20,000 in aftermarket parts, and is currently being auctioned to support the program’s vehicle build for the next school year. SEMA will donate 100% of the winning bid back to the school, and Bring-A-Trailer, the auction platform, is picking up the tab for the buyer fee.

Along with traditional academic courses, Santa Fe ECO offers career and technical education courses including bio-medical sciences, business, computer science, engineering, construction, welding, and of course—automotive technology. The early college model allows students to pursue certifications and associate degrees while they complete their high school diplomas—allowing students who might not perform well in a traditional learning environment to thrive and develop skills relevant to their interests and career goals.

Three-quarters view of the Jeep Wrangler

Students at Santa Fe ECO have been working on the build since last fall

Santa Fe ECO’s goal is to create a self-sustaining auto technology program, allowing students to have real-world, hands-on experience each school year to develop the skills needed to be successful in the automotive industry. “When you make learning relevant, it does incredible things, and the Jeep build is a wonderful opportunity for us to do that,” commented Kelly Rinaldi, Assistant Principal of Santa Fe ECO.

The customized Wrangler features the original 3.6L V6 engine with automatic transmission, and has been upgraded with an Edelbrock supercharger and Flowmaster 409S cat-back single exit exhaust system. K&N donated an Aircharger Snorkel System (63-1573), cabin air filter, and premium oil filter to the build.

Rear view of the Jeep Wrangler

The original full hardtop and doors are included in the sale

Exterior modifications include front and rear bumpers, high clearance metal front and rear fenders, fender liners, and rocker sliders/steps (donated by Bodyguard Truck Accessories). Lund International provided four Rampage trail doors, and Rugged Ridge provided black hood catches and vents. The suspension has also been customized, and the Jeep has been outfitted with a new winch, headlights, tail lights, custom fuel door, premium seat covers, seatbelts, a floor mat kit, console cover, shift handle kit, sway bars, exterior lighting, and traction tools (among other new features).

“It’s just an awesome opportunity for us to be working with SEMA, and all these different manufacturers to make this happen for us,” commented Chris Coriz, the auto technology instructor. One thing’s for certain—whoever posts the winning bid will not only receive a fantastic, one-of-a-kind off-road vehicle, they will also be supporting aspiring automotive technology students who have already proven themselves ready to meet and exceed challenges.

Do you want to own it? You can view details of the build and bid on the custom Wrangler at www.bringatrailer.com.

K&N® Introduces 77-3104KP Air Intake System for 2017-2018 Chevrolet Colorado V6

Designed to be compatible with 2017-2018 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 and GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 models, the K&N® 77-3104KP Air Intake System offers a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque for Colorado and Canyon owners.

The 77-3104KP air intake system

The 77-3104KP features a High-Flow Air Filter with heat shield

The 2018 Chevrolet Colorado is a highly-rated compact pickup truck, featuring a powerful towing capacity (7,000 lbs. on the V6 model), comfortable cabin, and available features including wireless phone charging, forward collision alert, lane departure alert, and a Wi-Fi hot spot (among others). The 3.6L V6 engine offers 308-horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The 2018 GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 also offers a comfortable ride, high-quality interior materials, and multiple tech features—including a rearview camera, USB port, Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker sound system. The 3.6L V6 engine also provides 308-horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque.

The 77-3104KP after installation

The 77-3104KP after installation

For those looking for an extra boost in horsepower for either of these compact pickup models, the K&N® 77-3104KP Air Intake System can help decrease air turbulence that may slow the volume of airflow reaching your engine. Many factory intake systems have components that can be consolidated in order to direct airflow more efficiently.

The K&N® 77-3104KP air intake system is a free-flowing, mandrel-bent polished aluminum tube cold air intake system designed to replace the factory air filter and air intake components. The included polished aluminum intake tube is engineered to be aerodynamic, and the High-Flow™ Air Filter (also included in the kit) also helps increase airflow to your engine—while simultaneously providing exceptional protection from contaminants. The oversized conical filter shape allows for up to 100,000 miles between cleanings (under normal highway driving conditions). When it does need to be cleaned, you can use the K&N Recharger® Kit (99-5000) to quickly and easily restore your filter’s performance. Each intake and filter is designed to last for the life of your vehicle.

The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6

The 2016 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 is compatible with the 63-3088 intake system

The 77-3104KP system also features a custom powder-coated aluminum heat shield which protects the air filter and intake air from high engine temperatures. The heat shield installs onto the lower factory air box and retains the fresh air inlet. The air intake tube funnels airflow directly into the engine’s throttle body, offering a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque.

Since the kit utilizes existing factory mounting points, requires only basic hand tools, and incorporates the factory mass air sensor, installation can typically be completed in 90 minutes or less.

Using a K&N replacement air intake system will not void your factory warranty (as some consumers may think); in the U.S., manufacturers must provide evidence that an aftermarket part is the cause of a necessary repair in order to void or deny warranty coverage. The Consumer Products Warranty Act of 1975 (also known as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act) protects consumers’ rights to their warranty coverage.

You are guaranteed to experience an increase in horsepower and torque with your new K&N air intake system. On a chassis dynamometer, a 2017 Chevrolet Colorado V6 with the stock air intake was recorded at 217.2-hp at 6,498rpm, and after installation of the 77-3104KP the same vehicle was recorded at 231.7-hp at 6,498rpm—an estimated increase of 14.5-hp. The torque was also improved from 182.9 lb-ft on the stock air intake to 190.6 lb-ft with the 77-3104KPa total estimated increase in torque of 7.7 lb-ft at 3,734rpm. You can buy with confidence under the 10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty, and the assurance that you’re receiving top quality when you purchase a K&N product.

The 77-3104KP is designed for use in the following vehicles:

2018 GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 Fuel Injection: All Models

2018 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 Fuel Injection: All Models

2017 GMC Canyon 3.6L V6 Fuel Injection: All Models

2017 Chevrolet Colorado 3.6L V6 Fuel Injection: All Models

FAQs

Will using a K&N® replacement air intake system void my factory warranty?

No. In the United States, in order for the manufacturer of a warranted product to void or deny warranty coverage of a repair due to the use of an aftermarket part, the manufacturer must provide proof that the aftermarket part is the cause of the necessary repair. These rights are protected under the Consumer Products Warranty Act of 1975 (also referred to as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act).

Are K&N® performance air intake systems or RK-series custom air cleaner assemblies emissions legal in the U.S.?

Performance intake systems are legal for street use in most areas of the United States.

In California, and in specific regions which have adopted California air quality regulations, only CARB-exempt performance intakes are legal for street use.

Check the K&N catalog or website for vehicle applications and specific CARB status for each vehicle and air intake.

Can a K&N® product cause my Check Engine Light or Service Light to come on?

It is possible that the Check Engine Light may come on after installing a K&N air filter or performance intake system. This does not necessarily mean that there is something wrong with your air filter or intake; sometimes, the higher air flow and lower restriction provided by the K&N product will uncover an existing mechanical or electronic issue with your vehicle. In rare cases, you may have a K&N product which was manufactured outside of its design tolerances, causing sensors in your vehicle to read data outside of their normal expected values. In either case, the K&N Warranty Department can work with you to narrow down the cause of the Check Engine Light and correct the issue.

How much horsepower does a K&N® cold air intake add?

Dynamometer tests indicating horsepower and torque increases over the OEM intake system will appear on the "Product Details" page for each of our performance intake systems.

What does a cold air intake do for a car?

Cold air intakes allow for increased airflow to your engine, which results in an increase in torque and acceleration for your vehicle.

Can cold air intakes improve gas mileage?

In theory, a cold air intake could increase the gas mileage of your vehicle due to improved airflow which allows the engine to run more efficiently and require less fuel. However, K&N does not make any guarantees in terms of increased gas mileage with the use of our filters or intakes.

*Some intake systems are not legal for sale or use on any pollution controlled motor vehicle in California or states adopting California emission procedures. See knfilters.com for CARB status on each part for a specific vehicle.

K&N®-Sponsored Lucas Oil Protection Trucks Help Save Racers’ Lives

Regardless of the type of track or vehicle—dirt or pavement, off-road or drifting—racers live on the edge. With every race comes the possibility of serious injury—and for drivers in many Lucas Oil Off-Road Series events, that’s when the K&N® Lucas Oil Protection Team steps in to help avert disaster.

A Lucas Oil Protection Team Toyota Tundra

The Lucas Oil Protection Team vehicles have to be able to handle rough and dirty terrain with ease

The K&N Lucas Oil Protection Team is trained to reach racers in crisis within seconds of an accident. Whether it’s flipping a truck, putting out a fire, or extricating a trapped driver, these professionals—many of whom are off-duty firefighters and EMTs—are scattered throughout the course and ready to save lives at a moment’s notice. To reach drivers in danger, of course, the team has to have safety vehicles capable of traversing all terrains. The fleet of K&N protection trucks—five Toyota Tundras featuring K&N filters—has to be able to manage demanding off-road environments with speed and agility in order to reach racers in danger. And, of course, they rely on K&N filters to help keep their engines clean in those dusty and muddy environments.

The protection team in action, helping a driver flip a vehicle

The protection team in action, helping a driver flip a vehicle

“In virtually every race, there’s a crash that’s so spectacular that you wonder how the driver walks away—and it’s because our crew is right there instantly to help out,” commented Alex Striler, Director of Sales and Marketing for Team Lucas. “Without K&N’s support, we probably could not continue the racing to the extent that we do.”

And it’s no exaggeration—with fifteen to twenty vehicles hurtling toward the same tight turn, dangerous collisions are a common occurrence. The protection trucks have to be capable of navigating off-road tracks that would be inaccessible to your average vehicle—and they have to be able to do so quickly.

A Lucas Oil Protection Team Toyota Tundra

K&N sponsors a fleet of protection vehicles for the Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series, all featuring

“The performance on the truck is incredibly important. We’ve got a system in place with K&N that can take in the volume of dust and dirt that [off-roading] might create,” commented Greg Cozzo of Lucas Oil Racing TV. Each of the Tundras has a K&N High-Flow Air Filter™ (available for almost every make and model at www.knfilters.com), which is washable, reusable, and able to protect the engine even in particulate-heavy environments. “Maintenance is critical,” added Alex Striler. “Before every event, we have to do full maintenance. With the reusables, we just inspect them and put them back on—it makes it very easy and convenient.”

We know that the drivers in the Lucas Oil Off-Road Series feel confident in the expertise and dedication of their protection team—and the protection team has confidence in their trucks, knowing that they’re protected by Lucas Oil and K&N Filters.

7 Essential Tasks to Prepare Your Vehicle for Summer

Before summer hits in full force, it’s critical to ensure your vehicle is ready for the extreme temperatures that the hotter months frequently bring. A few simple steps can help you avoid ending up on the side of the road with an overheated engine, a dead air conditioning system, or a flat tire. Check out our top tips for preparing your vehicle for summer!

Graphic featuring a vehicle with major inspection points highlighted

A quick pre-summer vehicle inspection can help avoid problems

CHECK YOUR COOLING SYSTEM

Overheating on the open road in the middle of summer isn’t just inconvenient—it can actually cause permanent engine damage. Take a good look under the hood (after the engine has fully cooled, which can take a few hours) and examine your radiator and hoses—any cracks or leaks should be repaired, and all connections should be snug. Shiny areas on belts and hoses are a sign of serious wear, and are often the result of extreme heat damage. While you’re at it, make sure to fill your coolant reservoir to the recommended level (a 50/50 mixture of coolant and distilled water is standard). Manufacturers generally advise that coolant be completely flushed and replaced every two years. If you do need to add/drain some coolant, make sure to keep it out of reach of your furry friends—dogs particularly love the taste of coolant, and drinking even small amounts can be lethal.

EXAMINE YOUR AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

Check for worn or damaged belts in your air conditioning system. Your compressor is located near the front of the engine, and is powered by the main drive belt—if the belt is worn or cracking, it could fail (often at the most inopportune moment, like when the temperature is in the triple digits!). Also check your refrigerant levels. If you spot any problems, take the opportunity to visit your mechanic before serious issues arise.

TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR BRAKE PADS

High-Flow™ Air Filter installation

K&N’s High-Flow™ Air Filter helps protect your engine from summer dust

Winter can be hard on brake pads—and if not checked properly in the spring, the high temperatures of summer can cause serious brake pad degradation. When looking between your wheel’s spokes, you should be able to see at least one-fourth of an inch of pad—any thinner than that, and you should have them inspected and possibly replaced. If you hear a high-pitched screech when braking, it’s a clear indicator that your pads need to be checked.

SWAP FOR SUMMER TIRES

An often-overlooked component of safe summer driving, summer tires (often called performance tires) are built to maintain excellent grip on the road—even if the pavement is burning hot or soaking wet with rain. They typically feature shorter sidewalls, less prominent tread, and stiffer construction, allowing for less friction and better fuel economy. You will also likely enjoy enhanced cornering and braking. Remember to always check your tires for proper inflation, as high temperatures can cause pressure variations, sometimes resulting in blowouts. (This is also a good time to check the pressure in your spare tire, if you have one).

PLAN AHEAD FOR TOWING

If you plan on towing for your summer trips—whether it be a trailer, boat, or toy hauler—you definitely want to check to make sure that your planned load is under your vehicle’s maximum towing capacity, your trailer hitch is secure, and your lights are working properly. It’s much easier to check things out ahead of time—rather than trying to correct problems the morning of a big trip!

SWITCH OUT YOUR WINDSHIELD WIPERS

There’s nothing like an unexpected thunderstorm in the middle of a sweltering summer—especially if your windshield wipers have turned into ineffectual, screechy sticks in the heat. Take a few minutes to ensure that your wipers still have good grip, and replace them if necessary.

CHANGE YOUR ENGINE/CABIN AIR FILTERS

K&N Washable Cabin Filter

K&N Washable Cabin Filters can help filter summer dust and allergens

After a couple of months of minimal rainfall, the dust starts to rise—and your filters will often clog much more quickly than in the winter months. A clogged filter decreases airflow to your engine and can dramatically reduce performance. If your air filter needs to be replaced, check out K&N’s High-Flow™ Air Filters—since they’re washable and reusable, you can easily clean and reinstall them, especially if your summer adventures take you into particularly dusty areas. If you have a cabin air filter, check out K&N’s washable line, which helps protect your cabin and passengers from airborne dust and contaminants—the filters are washable and reusable just like the famous K&N engine air filters. To search for filters that fit your specific vehicle, check out www.knfilters.com.

With a little forethought, your vehicle can be just as reliable during the extremely hot summer months as it is during the rest of the year—and you can enjoy peace of mind on your vacations and day-trips!

K&N®-Sponsored MotoAmerica Superbike Racer Kyle Wyman Primed for Podiums in 2018

Kyle Wyman has no shortage of determination. After a difficult end to the 2017 season, Wyman—of Kyle Wyman Racing—is already showing strong performance in the MotoAmerica Superbike racing series this year.

Kyle Wyman on his Yamaha YZF-R1

Kyle Wyman on his Yamaha YZF-R1

Wyman became a motorsports enthusiast at the early age of five—tearing up his parents’ backyard on a tiny Yamaha PW50. At only nine, he entered his first flat track race, and a passion for racing and competition was born. In 2004, he won the CMC Open Amateur Championship, which he followed up by winning the Ohio State Championship in the 505 Expert and Open Expert classes the following year. In 2006 (at only sixteen years old), he went pro in flat track—and finished 3rd overall in the Pro Sport National Championship. He continued his flat track racing career until 2009, when he received his Pro Road Racing License and began competing in the AMA Pro Supersport division.

In 2011, Wyman had his first professional win at the Daytona International Speedway, and went on to finish fifth overall in the Harley-Davidson Series Championship. In 2012, he founded Kyle Wyman Racing (KWR) and became the youngest championship-winning team owner with rider Michael Barnes. Following multiple podium and top-five finishes in the Daytona Sportbike Series and the Harley Davidson Series, Wyman moved up to the Superbike category in 2016, and proved himself a dedicated competitor with ten top-five finishes in his rookie year.

Wyman during a recent interview

Wyman during a recent interview

Wyman is no stranger to the dangers of the track. In September of 2017, he survived a 150-mph crash caused by total brake failure during a practice run for the MotoAmerica Superbike season finale at Barber Motorsports Park. Luckily, the track was equipped with inflatable air fencing—a protective measure intended to shield riders from the concrete and steel walls surrounding the track. He walked away from the crash, but suffered a fracture in one of the vertebrae in his back.

The crash came at an inopportune moment—just after Wyman had achieved his first career Superbike podium finish at New Jersey Motorsports Park, and was feeling confident about his potential performance in the finale. After recovery during the off-season, he’s looking optimistically at the rest of the 2018. “I feel 100%. That’s in the past. I’m going for number one this year,” he commented.

Wyman isn’t leaving anything to chance, and is keeping all of his equipment in prime condition. He uses a High-Flow™ Air Filter (model YA-1015R) on his Yamaha YZF-R1 Superbike to help ensure excellent performance on the track. (The street version of the same filter is available for customers under part number YA-1015).

Kyle Wyman competing on his Yamaha YZF-R1

Kyle Wyman competing on his Yamaha YZF-R1

“For this year, K&N made a new air filter for the Yamaha R1—they took what was more of a flat filter and coned it out so there’s more surface area—and it’s giving us way better airflow,” Wyman observed. “Having a K&N filter in the bike is not only going to increase horsepower, but it’s going to give us a more consistent pickup of the initial throttle, so when the fueling is trying to adjust to all of these different things that are happening like ambient air temperature—the K&N filter has such consistent airflow that it gives us one less variable that we have to worry about during a race weekend.”

Wyman is currently ranked sixth overall following the Championship of Virginia at Virginia International Raceway in Danville, VA on May 6.

You can see Wyman compete on June 3, 2018 at the Dunlop Championship at Road America in Elkhart Lake, WI.

K&N® Introduces 69-8009TWR Air Intake System for 2018 Subaru WRX STI 2.5L

Designed to be compatible with 2018 Subaru WRX STI 2.5L models, the K&N® 69-8009TWR Air Intake System offers a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque for WRX owners.

2018 Subaru WRX STI in World Rally Blue, courtesy of Subaru of America

2018 Subaru WRX STI in World Rally Blue, courtesy of Subaru of America

The WRX is a rally-car inspired vehicle, known for precise handling in an all-weather package. The 2018 Subaru WRX STI is a solid mixture of performance and daily-driver capability—full of conveniences and safety features including lane departure warning, automatic emergency breaking, and blind-spot monitoring—while also delivering a substantial 305-horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque from a 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.

The standard 2.5-liter engine offers quite a bit of power—but for those looking for an extra boost in horsepower, the K&N® 69-8009TWR Air Intake System can reduce unnecessary air turbulence that may slow the volume of airflow reaching the engine.

The 69-8009TWR complete with powder-coated intake tube

The 69-8009TWR complete with powder-coated intake tube

The K&N® 69-8009TWR air intake system is a free-flowing, mandrel-bent aluminum tube air induction system (powder-coated in red) designed to replace the factory air filter and air intake components. K&N® powder-coated aluminum intake tubes are meticulously designed to be aerodynamic, and when paired with the included High-Flow Air Filter™ can provide dramatic increases in airflow. The oversized conical air filter allows for up to 100,000 miles between cleanings under normal highway driving conditions, and is washable, durable, and reusable. The filter is placed in the front wheel well opening to allow for as much fresh air as possible and protect the filter from high engine temperatures. When your filter is due for a cleaning, the K&N Recharger® Kit (99-5000) contains everything you’ll need to quickly and easily wash away contaminants and restore your filter’s performance.

The 69-8009TWR system also features a custom powder-coated aluminum heat shield, protecting the air filter and intake air from the high temperatures radiating from the engine. The heat shield installs onto the lower factory air box, retaining the fresh air inlet. The air intake tube funnels airflow directly into the engine’s throttle body for a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque.

The 69-8009TWR after installation

The 69-8009TWR after installation

Installation of your new air intake system can typically be completed in 90 minutes or less, as the kit utilizes existing factory mounting points, incorporates the factory mass air sensor, and requires only basic hand tools. Since the cold air intake system allows for the removal of unnecessary stock air intake components, your engine bay will be left with a cleaner appearance after installation.

The results are verifiable and impressive—on a chassis dynamometer, a 2018 Subaru WRX STI 2.5L with the stock air intake was recorded at 248.0-hp at 5,999rpm, and after installation of the 69-8009TWR the same vehicle was recorded at 273.2-hp at 5,999rpm—an estimated increase of 25.2-hp. The torque was also improved from 172.5 lb-ft on the stock air intake to 182.9 lb-ft with the 69-8009TWR —a total estimated increase in torque of 11.4 lb-ft at 2,907rpm. You can buy with confidence under the 10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty—and the knowledge that you’re guaranteed an increase in horsepower and torque.

The 69-8009TWR is designed for use in the following vehicles:

2018 Subaru WRX STI 2.5L H4 Fuel Injection: All Models

FAQs

Will using a K&N® replacement air intake system void my factory warranty?

No. In the United States, in order for the manufacturer of a warranted product to void or deny warranty coverage of a repair due to the use of an aftermarket part, the manufacturer must provide proof that the aftermarket part is the cause of the necessary repair. These rights are protected under the Consumer Products Warranty Act of 1975 (also referred to as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act).

Are K&N® performance air intake systems or RK-series custom air cleaner assemblies emissions legal in the U.S.?

Performance intake systems are legal for street use in most areas of the United States.

In California, and in specific regions which have adopted California air quality regulations, only CARB-exempt performance intakes are legal for street use.

Check the K&N catalog or website for vehicle applications and specific CARB status for each vehicle and air intake.

Can a K&N® product cause my Check Engine Light or Service Light to come on?

It is possible that the Check Engine Light may come on after installing a K&N air filter or performance intake system. This does not necessarily mean that there is something wrong with your air filter or intake; sometimes, the higher air flow and lower restriction provided by the K&N product will uncover an existing mechanical or electronic issue with your vehicle. In rare cases, you may have a K&N product which was manufactured outside of its design tolerances, causing sensors in your vehicle to read data outside of their normal expected values. In either case, the K&N Warranty Department can work with you to narrow down the cause of the Check Engine Light and correct the issue.

How much horsepower does a K&N® cold air intake add?

Dynamometer tests indicating horsepower and torque increases over the OEM intake system will appear on the "Product Details" page for each of our performance intake systems.

What does a cold air intake do for a car?

Cold air intakes allow for increased airflow to your engine, which results in an increase in torque and acceleration for your vehicle.

Can cold air intakes improve gas mileage?

In theory, a cold air intake could increase the gas mileage of your vehicle due to improved airflow which allows the engine to run more efficiently and require less fuel. However, K&N does not make any guarantees in terms of increased gas mileage with the use of our filters or intakes.

*Some intake systems are not legal for sale or use on any pollution controlled motor vehicle in California or states adopting California emission procedures. See knfilters.com for CARB status on each part for a specific vehicle.

K&N® Introduces 57-1571 Air Intake System for 2015-2016 RAM 1500 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel

Engineered for compatibility with 2015-2016 RAM 1500 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel models, the K&N® 57-1571 Air Intake System offers a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque for power-seeking RAM aficionados.

The 2015 RAM 1500 V6 3.0L EcoDiesel

The 2015 RAM 1500 V6 3.0L EcoDiesel

The 2016 RAM 1500 offers a standard 3.0L V6 engine which provides 395 horsepower and a significant 410 lb-ft of torque, along with a 9,200-pound towing capacity. Even more impressive are the EPA-estimates for fuel economy—the FWD models can achieve up to 29 mpg on the highway.

The standard 3.0L V6 engine provides a respectable amount of power, but the stock air intake system that may cause unnecessary air turbulence and slow the volume of airflow reaching the engine.

The 2015 RAM 1500 V6 3.0L EcoDiesel

The 2015 RAM 1500 V6 3.0L EcoDiesel

The K&N® 57-1571 air intake system is a free-flowing, high-density polyethylene tube cold air intake system engineered to replace the factory air filter and air intake components. K&N® roto-molded HDPE intake tubes are meticulously designed to be aerodynamic, and when paired with the included High-Flow Air Filter™ can increase airflow to your engine by up to 50%. The oversized conical air filter allows for up to 100,000 miles between cleanings under normal highway driving conditions, and is washable, durable, and reusable. When your filter is due for a cleaning, the K&N Recharger® Kit (99-5000) contains everything you’ll need to quickly and easily wash away contaminants and restore your filter’s performance.

The 57-1571 system also offers a black powder-coated aluminum heat shield, protecting the air filter and intake air from the high temperatures radiating from the engine. The heat shield installs onto the lower factory air box, retaining the fresh air inlet. The air intake tube funnels airflow directly into the engine’s throttle body for a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque.

The 57-1571 Air Intake System

The 57-1571 Air Intake System

Installation of your new air intake system can typically be completed in 90 minutes or less, as the kit utilizes existing factory mounting points, incorporates the factory mass air sensor, and requires only basic hand tools. Since the intake system allows for the removal of unnecessary stock air intake components, your engine bay will be left with a cleaner appearance after installation.

The results are notable—on a chassis dynamometer, a 2015 RAM 1500 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel with the stock air intake was recorded at 187.89-hp at 3,300rpm, and after installation of the 57-1571 the same vehicle was recorded at 199.12-hp at 3,300rpm—an estimated increase of 11.22-hp. The torque was also improved from 300.00 lb-ft on the stock air intake to 315.34 lb-ft with the 57-1571—a total estimated increase in torque of 15.34 lb-ft at 3,300rpm. You can buy with confidence under the 10-Year/Million Mile Limited Warranty—and the knowledge that you’re guaranteed an increase in horsepower and torque.

The 57-1571 Air Intake System after installation

The 57-1571 Air Intake System after installation

The 57-1571 is designed for use in the following vehicles:

2015-2016 RAM 1500 3.0L V6 EcoDiesel Engine: All Models

FAQs

Will using a K&N® replacement air intake system void my factory warranty?

No. In the United States, in order for the manufacturer of a warranted product to void or deny warranty coverage of a repair due to the use of an aftermarket part, the manufacturer must provide proof that the aftermarket part is the cause of the necessary repair. These rights are protected under the Consumer Products Warranty Act of 1975 (also referred to as the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act).

Are K&N® performance air intake systems or RK-series custom air cleaner assemblies emissions legal in the U.S.?

Performance intake systems are legal for street use in most areas of the United States.

In California, and in specific regions which have adopted California air quality regulations, only CARB-exempt performance intakes are legal for street use.

Check the K&N catalog or website for vehicle applications and specific CARB status for each vehicle and air intake.

Can a K&N® product cause my Check Engine Light or Service Light to come on?

It is possible that the Check Engine Light may come on after installing a K&N air filter or performance intake system. This does not necessarily mean that there is something wrong with your air filter or intake; sometimes, the higher air flow and lower restriction provided by the K&N product will uncover an existing mechanical or electronic issue with your vehicle. In rare cases, you may have a K&N product which was manufactured outside of its design tolerances, causing sensors in your vehicle to read data outside of their normal expected values. In either case, the K&N Warranty Department can work with you to narrow down the cause of the Check Engine Light and correct the issue.

How much horsepower does a K&N® cold air intake add?

Dynamometer tests indicating horsepower and torque increases over the OEM intake system will appear on the "Product Details" page for each of our performance intake systems.

What does a cold air intake do for a car?

Cold air intakes allow for increased airflow to your engine, which results in an increase in torque and acceleration for your vehicle.

Can cold air intakes improve gas mileage?

In theory, a cold air intake could increase the gas mileage of your vehicle due to improved airflow which allows the engine to run more efficiently and require less fuel. However, K&N does not make any guarantees in terms of increased gas mileage with the use of our filters or intakes.

*Some intake systems are not legal for sale or use on any pollution controlled motor vehicle in California or states adopting California emission procedures. See knfilters.com for CARB status on each part for a specific vehicle.