GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

Has anyone done a test or know of data that shows how a drop in k&N filter in a 2009 Vibe with the 2.4L effects performance or fuel consumption? K&N makes a lot of big claims about their replacement filters adding Horsepower and MPG but aside from them being able to wash and replace, is it really worth the $50?

You'll see about 2-3mpg(depending on how you drive) and 1-2hp overall, base on my experience with my 1.8L. I would recommend going with an aFe Pro Dry-S drop-in filter instead though. it's dry media - no oiling to mess up your maf.http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors...ories**That is if one is offered for an 09+...

Noticed a big difference over the wimpy stock filter, even took the silencer off to make it sound more aggressive.

Quote, originally posted by DrunkenDixie »even took the silencer off to make it sound more aggressive.the snorkel?

Yea, the dumb thing that wraps around the battery.

Auto companies would kill for an extra 2-3 mpg. Maybe the problem is that the EPA tests don't pick up that mileage increase so the auto companies are not going to make the K&N standard. Or maybe it is because it is all hype anyway. I vote for door #2.

You can get CAI's as a dealer installed option on some makes and models (Hyundai Accent off the top of my head is one).I think the reason they don't come stock is noise and marketing!

Automakers invest billions into research, if better mileage AND more power cost just a few bucks, they'd be doing it at the factory.

I do believe normal everyday cars don't have one for the simple fact that it makes more noise. Now say for instance performance cars use some technology like "ram-air".

Quote, originally posted by L5K »Automakers invest billions into research, if better mileage AND more power cost just a few bucks, they'd be doing it at the factory.Sometimes though, they have to sacrifice MPG for air quality

Ive used k&n filters in mine, friends and family's cars for over 10 years, they always get better hp, and milage, but the biggest reason i use them is throttle response, twice as quick and much smoother, i bought my 09 vibe about 3weeks ago, and on the way home from the dealership picked up and dropped in mine. And with the cold weather im getting 24 mpg for mostly city driving.

I don't have any numbers, but I do have an OEM filter frustration story to back up purchasing my K&N:I put my K&N in at 1,000 miles on the odometer. Needless to say, with 49k miles now, it's been awhile since I have driven with the OEM fiber filter in. I cleaned and re-oiled the K&N this past weekend. So, in an effort to let it completely dry before putting it back in the airbox, I left it at home before traveling for Easter weekend. I have always kept my original filter around for such occasions. Well... I'll NEVER drop that thing in again. The performance drop on the highway was excruciating! Cruise control was a joke. Even on the slightest incline, my tranny downshifted instantly, revving the engine to maintain my speed. Even city acceleration was more unresponsive with the OEM installed. I have since dropped the K&N back in, and all problems of poor acceleration went away instantly. I think my engine was so used to the K&N, the lower air flow from the OEM was practically choking it! And yes, I clean my MAF - as evidenced by my DIY on here.

I also have the K&N filter. I was pleasantly suprised that they had one in stock at the local Pepboys. The car definitely feels quicker off the line. So how do you make the car sound more aggressive? Are there baffles somewhere?

I drive for mileage, so can't comment on performance but my K&N has helped my average mileage a few % points. I'd doubt it could ever make 2-3 mpg difference. 2-3% difference, sure.Reminds me though, I need to clean mine