AEM 21-793C Cold Air Intake System

Why Upgrade with the AEM 21-793C?

Because your Maxima’s VQ/V6 (or whatever 3.5 Nissan calls it) wants to unleash, but the stock intake says: “Maybe later.”
With this intake you get:

• Improved airflow: The stock intake is restrictive; this system replaces it with mandrel-bent aluminum tubing and a large Dryflow filter for less restriction.

• Sharper throttle response: When you step on it, the engine reacts faster because the air path is more open.

• Better induction sound: You’ll hear the engine breathe, not just hum.

• Oil-free Dryflow filter: AEM’s washable, reusable, MAF-safe filter.

• Gunmetal grey tubing: Not just performance, but looks under the hood.

• Dyno-tested gain: AEM lists ≈ +12 hp @ 5,500 rpm in its spec sheet

The AEM 21-793C Performance Cold Air Intake System produces horsepower and torque gains by replacing your vehicle’s restrictive factory air filter and air intake housing. This air intake system was designed, tuned and dyno-tested to fit specific Nissan Maxima models.

Key Features

• Mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube, gunmetal powder-coat finish.

• Oversized AEM Dryflow synthetic washable filter (oil-free) rated for up to ~100,000 miles between cleanings in optimal conditions.

• Heat shield to reduce intake air temperature (IAT) and avoid heat-soak.

• Retains factory MAF sensor location/hoses and vehicles’ emissions control hardware (designed for fit & compliance).

• Lifetime limited warranty.

Air enters the system through an oversized AEM Dry flow synthetic washable air filter for outstanding air flow, filtration and performance. The air filter is placed into the original air box space and is protected by a heat shield which is designed to reduce intake air temperature and increase horsepower.

Performance Expectations

For your Maxima 3.5L, expect:

• Noticeably quicker tip-in of throttle

• Improved mid-range acceleration feel

• Better breathing when the revs climb

• More audible induction sound (fun factor increase)

• Gains will depend on other mods, conditions, driver style—don’t expect 100hp out of the box, but you’ll feel the difference.

The air intake tube is constructed from mandrel-bent aluminum featuring a durable gunmetal gray powder coated finish. This air intake system was developed to accommodate the engine’s factory emissions control devices including the mass air flow sensor and engine vent hose.

Daily-Driver Friendly

Yes – this intake is designed to be used daily without turning the car into a track monster.

• Works with stock ECU (no required tune)

• Maintenance is simple thanks to the oil-free Dryflow filter

• Keeps reliability intact

• Just check that your local emissions laws allow it: some states (like California) may have restrictions.

The tapered cylinder shaped AEM Dry flow air filter is made from an oil-free, synthetic filter media that can be used for up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is needed (depending on driving conditions).

Installation Overview

Estimated install time: 45-60 minutes with basic hand tools.

Steps:

1. Remove the factory airbox and intake ducting.

2. Install the AEM heat shield and secure mounting points.

3. Bolt in the aluminum intake tube and transfer the MAF sensor if needed.

4. Mount the Dryflow filter, secure clamps, ensure proper fitment and clearances.

5. Check everything, start engine, listen for intake tone, monitor for check-engine lights.

If you can replace your oil, you can install this.

The air intake system is easy to install with commonly available tools and it is backed by AEM’s Lifetime Limited Warranty. Some AEM air intakes are not legal for sale or use in California and other states adopting California emission standards, while others are 50 state legal. View the 21-793C vehicle applications to determine the legal status for each vehicle.