Why the AEM 21-871C Is a Smart Upgrade for the TLX V6

Mandrel-Bent Aluminum Intake Tube

The stock air ducts on the TLX V6 choke airflow at higher RPM. AEM replaces it with a large-diameter, smooth mandrel-bent tube to reduce turbulence and improve volume.

Oversized AEM Dryflow Filter

• Oil-free synthetic media

• Washable and reusable

• Rated up to ~100,000 miles between cleanings

• Allows significantly more airflow than the OEM paper filter

Heat Shield Included

A form-fitted shield helps keep intake air temps cooler, improving combustion efficiency—especially on hotter days or during spirited driving.

Dyno-Proven Gains

Real-world testing shows +8–9 hp at ~6000 RPM on the 3.5L TLX V6.
Throttle response and mid-range punch also noticeably improve.

The AEM 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 models. Air enters the system through an oversized AEM Dryflow synthetic washable air filter for outstanding air flow, filtration and performance.

 

Performance Benefits

• Faster throttle response on initial tip-in

• Improved upper-RPM breathing

• Richer, more aggressive induction note

• Slight horsepower and torque increase

• Cleaner, more efficient airflow to the J-series V6

• Reusable filter cuts long-term maintenance costs

 

The air filter is located in the original air box space and is protected by a heat shield which is designed to reduce intake air temperature and increase horsepower. The air intake tube is constructed from mandrel-bent aluminum featuring a durable gunmetal gray powder coated finish.

 

Installation Notes

• Bolt-on install, generally 60–90 minutes

• Uses factory MAF sensor and OE mounting points

• Check all clamps and couplers after 100 miles

• Verify engine: 3.5L V6 only — not compatible with the 2.4L I4 TLX

 

This air intake system was developed to accommodate the engine’s factory emissions control devices including the mass airflow sensor and breather tube. The tapered cylinder shaped AEM Dryflow 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). 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 vehicle applications to determine the legal status for each vehicle.