* Increased Intake Air Temperature: A cold air intake is designed to draw cooler, denser air into the engine. Cooler air contains more oxygen, leading to more complete combustion and better power output. Removing it means the engine will draw in hotter, less dense air from the engine bay, reducing efficiency.
* Reduced Engine Power: This lower-density air will lead to a noticeable decrease in horsepower and torque. You might experience sluggish acceleration and a generally less responsive engine.
* Potential for Damage (Long-term): While not immediate, running an engine consistently with hotter intake air can lead to increased engine temperatures and potentially cause premature wear and tear on engine components. This is especially true during strenuous driving or in hot climates. The increased heat can also lead to detonation (pre-ignition), which can severely damage the engine's internal components.
* Air Filter Issues: Many cold air intakes come with a high-flow air filter. Removing the intake system might leave you with only the standard air filter box, which could restrict airflow to some degree, potentially affecting performance.
In short, while you won't instantly destroy your engine by removing a cold air intake, you will significantly compromise its performance and potentially cause harm in the long run. It's best to leave it in place unless you're replacing it with another appropriately designed intake system.
