Are they worth the money $250-$300 and much more?

In the old days we drove without a filter all the time, especially if we were racing old cars. Does it really hurt your engine to drive without a filter.

I'll probably get a lot of static over this but it is a question that should be answered.

Boydie

 

Yes they can, if properly done. Gains, are small but can be noticeable. Most are done for the different sounds or looks though.
Filters are needed. Esp with a cai.
Would you bypass ur oil filter for your daily? Or fuel filter?

 

Air filter will protect sensors and the like and keep the air/fuel ratio in the optimal range. Most of those old cars did not have the sensitive electronic senors today's new cars have. Overall the air intake on the HHR is designed pretty well so the gains won't be big.

 

my stock air box with side cut off, 2 90 o elbows and 2 1/2 inch exhaust pipe to the arera above the radiator with Sears wet / dry attachment getting cold air to the K&N filter in the stock box a big change in performance, Im very happy with it for not a lot of $$$.

 

My answer to your thread title is no. But I'm in the minority on this one.

 

Without a tune on the ecm, no. The computer will self adjust to the new intake parameters no matter what you bolt on the engine. Been discussed MANY times, the butt dyno may tell you one thing but the real dyno tells the story.

 

Bingo....on the last 2 comments.

And I'm one of the guys that done it and had dyno pulls to show a 3-4 HP gain. If you think you can feel a 4 HP gain, I know a car manufacturer that would hire you in a New York minute.

 

Quick answer: no....

But it depends on the car. Most cars intakes are designed well including the HHR. A lot of "cold air intakes" suck in hot air... If your filter is exposed under the hood, your most likely sucking in hot air..

When I had my airaid for my 2.4l, it seemed to spin the tires easier. But overall gains were not noticeable.

 

My 2 exhaust tubes are cold to the touch after driveing with the temp. at 194o f, no engine heat efecting the cold air to the filter. so Im happy.

 

Butt dyno data is inconclusive, but my ears like the "rorty snorty" sound.