OEM Volkswagen Air Intake Systems Online

Air intake systems draw air into engines' intake manifolds, right through to their cylinders. The process is called air induction. Meanwhile, fuel systems' injectors spray gas through intake valves; the air mixes with the gas in the correct ratio, spark plugs ignite the mix, it burns, and an engine produces power.

How the air intake system in your Volkswagen car or SUV works is no different. First, an engine air filter captures contaminants, well before they can get into the rest of the motor. Then, several components -- among them, a mass airflow sensor, an air metering system, and oxygen sensors -- work together to regulate air levels. Together, they coordinate both induction and exhaust, feeding info about both back to an engine control unit (ECU).

A cold air intake, however, works a little differently. It relocates the engine air filter to just outside the engine compartment, above a wheel well or near a fender. This placement enables the engine to take in cooler, denser, and therefore higher-quality air. The result: a slight improvement in power output.

Unfortunately, no air intake lasts forever. One can start to go bad and fail eventually. There are signs that'll tell you that's happening, though. Look for:

• A Check Engine warning lighting up the dash
• The engine revving abnormally fast
• Unusual idling speeds

See any, and the best thing to do is plug in a code reader and run a thorough induction system inspection. If its results indicate you need a new one, replace the old one ASAP. Before you buy, though, be sure you're getting the genuine OEM article. Unlike some aftermarket air intakes, it'll come compatible with the car or SUV you love driving.

Shop a Complete Catalog of Genuine Volkswagen Air Intake Parts Online

You can order them from our auto parts catalog. Just be sure to browse it by model and model year to find what fits your vehicle more easily. Buy now, and we'll ship and deliver in no time, right to your door.