Hey guys! Thinking about boosting the performance of your 2017 Lexus IS200t F Sport? A great place to start is upgrading your air intake system. Let's dive into why, what to look for, and how to make the most of this mod.

Why Upgrade Your Intake?

Upgrading your intake on a 2017 Lexus IS200t F Sport can bring several noticeable benefits. The stock intake systems in many cars, including the IS200t, are often designed with cost-effectiveness and noise reduction in mind, rather than outright performance. This means they can be somewhat restrictive, limiting the amount of air that reaches the engine. By installing an aftermarket intake, you're essentially opening up the airways, allowing your engine to breathe more freely. More air equals more potential for power.

Improved Horsepower and Torque: An upgraded intake can lead to a modest increase in horsepower and torque. While the exact gains can vary depending on the specific intake design and other modifications you may have, it's not uncommon to see improvements of around 5-15 horsepower. This can translate to a more responsive and engaging driving experience, especially when accelerating or overtaking.

Enhanced Throttle Response: A less restrictive intake can also sharpen throttle response. With the engine able to draw in air more easily, it can react more quickly to changes in throttle input. This can make the car feel more nimble and eager to accelerate.

Aggressive Sound: Many aftermarket intakes are designed to enhance the sound of the engine. You can expect a more aggressive and noticeable intake noise, especially under hard acceleration. This can add to the overall driving experience and make the car feel more sporty.

Improved Fuel Efficiency: Although not always guaranteed, some drivers report a slight improvement in fuel efficiency after upgrading their intake. This is because the engine can operate more efficiently when it's not struggling to draw in air. However, it's important to note that any gains in fuel economy may be offset by a tendency to drive more aggressively due to the improved performance and sound.

Types of Intakes for Your IS200t

When it comes to intakes for your 2017 Lexus IS200t F Sport, you'll generally find two main types: short ram intakes and cold air intakes. Each has its own pros and cons, so let's break them down.

Short Ram Intakes (SRI)

Short ram intakes, as the name suggests, are designed to be shorter and more direct than the stock intake system. They typically place the air filter within the engine bay, closer to the throttle body. This design offers a few advantages:

Easy Installation: SRIs are generally easier to install than cold air intakes because they require less modification and fewer parts.

Improved Throttle Response: The shorter intake path can lead to improved throttle response, as the air has less distance to travel to the engine.

Aggressive Sound: SRIs tend to produce a louder and more aggressive intake sound, which many enthusiasts find appealing.

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

Heat Soak: Because the air filter is located within the engine bay, it can be susceptible to heat soak. This means that the filter can draw in hot air from the engine, which can reduce performance. This is more of a concern in hot climates or during stop-and-go traffic.

Less Horsepower Gains: SRIs may not provide as much horsepower gain as cold air intakes, especially in situations where heat soak is a problem.

Cold Air Intakes (CAI)

Cold air intakes are designed to draw in cooler air from outside the engine bay. They typically place the air filter in a location where it can access cooler air, such as near the wheel well or behind the front bumper. This offers several advantages:

Cooler Air: CAIs draw in cooler air, which is denser and contains more oxygen. This can lead to increased horsepower and torque.

Better Performance: CAIs generally provide better performance than SRIs, especially in situations where heat soak is a concern.

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

More Difficult Installation: CAIs can be more difficult to install than SRIs because they often require more modification and more parts.

Risk of Hydro-Lock: If the air filter is located too low, there is a risk of it sucking in water, which can cause serious engine damage (hydro-lock). This is more of a concern in areas with heavy rain or flooding.

What to Look for in an Intake

Okay, so you're leaning towards an intake. What should you actually look for? Here's the breakdown:

Filter Quality: The air filter is the heart of your intake system, so make sure it's a high-quality one. Look for filters made from durable materials like oiled cotton or synthetic fibers. These filters offer excellent filtration and can be cleaned and reused, saving you money in the long run. Avoid cheap paper filters, as they may not provide adequate filtration and can restrict airflow.

Intake Tube Material: The intake tube should be made from a material that is durable, lightweight, and resistant to heat. Common materials include aluminum, plastic, and carbon fiber. Aluminum is a good all-around choice, as it's strong, lightweight, and dissipates heat well. Plastic is a more affordable option, but it may not be as durable or heat-resistant as aluminum. Carbon fiber is the most expensive option, but it offers excellent strength, lightweight, and heat resistance.

Heat Shielding: If you're opting for a short ram intake, look for one that includes a heat shield. The heat shield will help to block hot air from the engine bay, reducing the risk of heat soak. The heat shield should be made from a heat-resistant material like aluminum or fiberglass.

Fit and Finish: Make sure the intake system is designed specifically for your 2017 Lexus IS200t F Sport. It should fit properly and securely, without requiring any major modifications. The intake should also have a clean and professional finish, with no rough edges or sharp corners.

Brand Reputation: Stick with reputable brands that have a proven track record of producing high-quality intake systems. Some popular brands for Lexus vehicles include AEM, Injen, K&N, and Takeda. Reading online reviews and forums can help you get a sense of the quality and performance of different brands.

Installation Tips

Alright, you've got your intake. Time to get it installed! Here are a few pointers:

Read the Instructions: This sounds obvious, but seriously, read the instructions thoroughly before you start. Each intake system is different, and the instructions will provide specific guidance for your particular model.

Gather Your Tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools before you begin. This may include screwdrivers, sockets, wrenches, pliers, and a ratchet. Having the right tools will make the job much easier and prevent you from damaging anything.

Disconnect the Battery: Before you start working on your car, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent any accidental electrical shocks or damage to the car's electrical system.

Take Your Time: Don't rush the installation process. Take your time and be careful not to damage any of the car's components. If you're not comfortable doing the installation yourself, it's always best to take it to a professional mechanic.

Double-Check Everything: Once you've installed the intake system, double-check all the connections to make sure they're tight and secure. Make sure the air filter is properly seated and that there are no leaks in the intake tube.

Potential Issues & Considerations

Before you pull the trigger, keep these potential issues in mind:

Check Engine Light (CEL): In some cases, installing an aftermarket intake can trigger the check engine light. This is usually due to changes in airflow that the car's computer isn't expecting. If this happens, you may need to reset the ECU or install a MAF sensor adapter.

Warranty: Installing an aftermarket intake may void your car's warranty, especially if the intake is found to be the cause of a problem. Check with your dealership or warranty provider before installing an intake.

CARB Compliance: If you live in California or another state with strict emissions regulations, make sure the intake system is CARB compliant (California Air Resources Board). This means that the intake has been tested and certified to meet the state's emissions standards.

Final Thoughts

An intake upgrade can be a fantastic way to add a little extra oomph to your 2017 Lexus IS200t F Sport. You'll likely notice a throatier sound and perhaps a slight bump in performance. Just make sure to do your research, choose a quality intake, and install it correctly. Happy modding!