I just recieved my Injen cold air intake today and was looking at the instructions. The instructions state that i need to take the front bumper off in order to make it easier for me for the installation. Is the bumper a _____ to take off and is it really necessary? The rest of it looks easy.

The bumper is easy to remove. It may also be easier if you remove the battery. I did that w/ my SR and it was easier to do.

The installation of the AEM CAI can be done under the car. I am sure you can do the same thing. :)

I just dont feel like taking the bumper off because then i have to re-align the bumper which is not fun by yourself. I'll try and do it underneath the car like you said Stylis. How long did it take for you to install the AEM CAI? Did you find any benefits of having it? I primarly got it because i would like to get better gas mileage and make it a little easier on the engine to go up hills.

No need to completely remove the bumper. Remove all the screws except for the ones under the car. You'll be able to move the bumper down far enough to work in there.

Cool, thank you for your input.

Actually, just lift the front of the car, take off the driver's side wheel, pull back the wheel well splash guard and you'll have access to everything you need.

Thank you. Thats actually a lot easier than taking off the whole bumper. I am going to try and install it this weekend if i have time.

I was hesitant to remove the bumper at first, but it's really easy and makes the install much easier too. The Injen goes thru a different spot than the AEm and may be harder to get at from underneath, but maybe not.

The bumper aligns real easily. the trickiest part IMO, are the little loop tabs next to the headlamps on removal. Other than that, it came right off without a hitch.

How long did it take you to install the injen CAI? I read somewhere, i think it was actaully under reviews that it took only 45 min. I kinda dont believe that unless your like a injen tech pro or something.

I didn't track it cuz I work slow so I don't miss anything or scratch it and also I'm usually doing 3 things at once around the house or trying to take pics and watching a DVD in the garage.. If you're focused and prepared, I'd say an hour is do-able.

I didn't take my battery out, but I slid it all the way back in its tray.

All in all, there's really not that much to it. The bumper is half the job...

I just installed it tonight and i have to say i will never follow directions for something like that again. I tried to do it there way,... tthen did it my way and it took a lot less time and was a lot easier. I didnt take the bumper off after all. I just slid it up through the game infront of the tire and tightened it from above.. Much easier now that i know how to do it. If i would install one again, it would take maybe 30 min. or so if i have all the tools ready.

I'll try and do it underneath the car like you said Stylis. How long did it take for you to install the AEM CAI?

since this is your first CAI install it will take you about an 45min to an hour.

I removed 2 screws to get to the filter for the first cleaning. It's amazing how much cr#@@ gets caught in it. Especially when you are in a very windy/dusty area.

Oh $#!t, that reminds me. How often are you supposed to clean the CAI's filter?

Usually do it every 5,000 miles. It wont probably need it, but just take a look at it to see if it needs it. Since its near the ground, it will get a little more dirty easier.