2011-2014 Nissan Maxima Models with 3.5L Engine Get Estimated 10 HP Gain with AEM Intake

Jul 9, 2012

AEM 21-712C air intake for 2011-2012 Nissan Maxima 3.5L

Designing a high flow air intake system for a modern vehicle is a challenge because tight engine compartments make packaging the intake system for maximum flow and inlet air temperature (IAT) control difficult. 2011 and 2014 Nissan Maxima models proved to be no exception to this due to the placement of the original intake system. While testing various intake system designs on the dyno and on the road we noticed maintaining IAT was critical to ignition timing stability. Ignition timing is critical to power and fuel economy so our design focused on getting cool air into the engine to aid with stable timing. AEM air intake part numbers 21-712C and 21-712P were the result of our design challenge.

Dyno chart for the 21-712C and 21-712P air intake system

AEM's air intake system was designed to reduce air restriction and incoming air temperature to create more power and torque while maintaining IAT as much as possible. Since there was limited space under the Maxima's hood, the initial thought was to try to increase the diameter of the intake tube connected to the throttle body. Our power testing didn't show a difference between 3.25" and 3.5" diameter intake pipes. Since there wasn't a significant difference in horsepower the decision to use a 3.25" intake pipe on the final design was made.

The next step was to try to get better air flow by designing a one of a kind air duct to pull air from the front of the vehicle into the air box. Engineers then removed a few trim panels and made an air scoop that sits on top of the radiator core support and sends cooler air from behind the front grill to the Dryflow^® AEM air filter. A custom heat shield was also added to isolate the air filter from the warmer air around the engine. After combining the air duct, air filter and heat shield with the 3.25" intake tube, it was time to test it on the dyno. This final design resulted in an estimated 10 horsepower gain and 12 lb-ft of torque at 4700rpm. This is the type of gain AEM was striving to achieve for 2011 and 2012 Nissan Maxima 3.5L models.

After product testing was complete, part number 21-712C, designed with a gunmetal gray finish, and part 21-712P, designed with a polished finish, were released for production. Both finishes are durable and will withstand years of punishment without losing their lustrous shine. All AEM air intakes come with AEM's Lifetime Limited Warranty.

AEM 21-712C and 21-712P come with a non-oiled Dryflow air filter to provide superior protection and high airflow. No oil means less time spent cleaning the air filter. Just apply the cleaning solution, rinse it out, and let it dry. AEM Dryflow air filters can be used for up to 50,000 miles before cleaning is needed depending on driving conditions.

The following Nissan Maxima models benefit from AEM part numbers 21-712C and 21-712P:

2014 Nissan Maxima 3.5L
2013 Nissan Maxima 3.5L
2012 Nissan Maxima 3.5L
2011 Nissan Maxima 3.5L

To find all AEM products for your vehicle, use the AEM application search function and the Where to Buy function on AEMIntakes.com to find an AEM dealer near you.

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