Cold Air Intake W/Heat Shield For Ford Explorer (2011-2018) with 3.5L V6 Engine Black

Optimize Your Cyclone V6 Flow with this Ford Explorer Cold Air Intake & Heat Shield

Who It’s For: Designed specifically for 2011-2018 Ford Explorer owners running the 3.5L Cyclone V6 engine (Naturally Aspirated models).

The Problem: The stock air box on the Cyclone V6 is designed for silence over efficiency. It uses a restrictive plastic plenum that creates air turbulence and traps heat within the engine bay, leading to sluggish throttle response and a choked-off power band at higher RPMs.

The Solution: This system replaces the restrictive factory assembly with high-flow T304 aluminum piping and a dedicated heat shield. We engineered this kit to provide a direct, high-velocity path to the throttle body, allowing the engine to draw in cooler, denser air for a noticeable improvement in mid-range torque and a much more aggressive induction sound.

Why This is the Ultimate Upgrade

• Enhanced Induction Efficiency: Mandrel-bent T304 lightweight aluminum piping reduces air turbulence, providing a smoother transition of air into the manifold compared to the corrugated factory rubber hoses.
• Thermal Management: The included heat shield isolates the filter from radiant engine heat, ensuring the intake air temperatures stay low even during extended idling or heavy traffic.
• Simplified Maintenance: Features a high-flow, washable pleated filter that only requires cleaning every 50,000 miles, eliminating the need for restrictive paper replacements.

Technical Specifications

Compatibility & OEM Reference

Fits the Following Vehicles:

• 2011 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated
• 2012 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated
• 2013 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated
• 2014 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated
• 2015 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated
• 2016 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated
• 2017 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated
• 2018 Ford Explorer 3.5L V6 Naturally Aspirated

Note: Does NOT fit Sport models or 3.5L EcoBoost (Turbocharged) engines.

Interchange Part Numbers:

AF-11-18-EXPL-35-BK, 3.5L-V6-EXPL-BK

The Performance Promise

Buy with confidence. As specialists in the Ford 3.5L platform, we know these engines need to breathe. This kit includes all necessary hardware for a 60-minute driveway install using basic hand tools. We recommend a battery terminal reset after installation to allow the ECU to calibrate for the increased mass airflow.