I know this has probably been asked a million times before but I couldn't find any threads that were helpful.

I'm planning on purchasing a few affordable mods for my Evo X MR just to start off with. I have already purchased a Catback exhaust and was considering a AEM Cold air intake because I like the design and they seem really easy to install.
But I've heard some people saying that they gained power after installing while other people say that they lost power and it's better to just keep the stock airbox.

My question is, will I get any power gains from installing the AEM CAI and getting a tune or should I stick with the OEM Airbox?

 

you need a tune for an intake. Not worth it unless your car is going to be tuned for it.

 

When I install the intake I do intend to get it tuned. Hopefully that will result in me gaining some power

 

Just a tune (from a decent tuner) would do that even with out an intake.

 

So getting an intake would be a pointless waste of money?

I should forget about the intake and keep the factory airbox?

 

I had the AEM CAI on my 08' without a tune and didn't run into any issues. If I were you, my next mod would be a high flow cat, UICP and lastly a intake plus tune in that order. I think the high flow cat is one of the best bang for the buck mods you can get on these cars.

 

I never changed my intake on my IX RS (Just added a cone filter) for up to 417 whp. Tuned on E-85

 

The 10's are a bit different because they are hybrid MAP + MAF and run out of resolution at higher airflows. Of course, as a first mod, that isn't on the list of things that can happen.

 

Thanks mate, I think I'll do just that. I already have a catback on order so next is the UICP

 

What you need to do depends on what you are intending to.

If you want to get more power, The first thing to do is to tune your ignition timing and boost up. For light tunes, a stock turbo is sufficient. If you want more power, you should replace your stock turbo to bigger one. After replacing your turbo, If the intake air is insufficient, replace your air intake to larger one.

If you want to just dress your car up, install any parts as you like.

 

Thanks, eventually was going to upgrade to a bigger turbo but just starting out with some easy more affordable mods.