Cold Air Intake with Heat Shield for Nissan Xterra (2000-2004) 3.3L V6 - Conquer Every Trail with More Power

The Xterra Legacy Deserves Maximum Performance

When Nissan launched the Xterra at the turn of the millennium, they created something special—a purpose-built off-road machine that didn't compromise capability for comfort. With its rugged body-on-frame construction, genuine 4WD system, and proven VG33E V6 engine, the Xterra became the go-to choice for adventurers who demanded real capability, not just SUV styling.

But even legends can be improved. Your factory intake system was engineered for emissions compliance and cost savings, not for maximizing the VG33's impressive capabilities. This cold air intake with heat shield transforms your Xterra by feeding your engine the cold, dense air it needs to deliver peak performance—whether you're conquering rock gardens, sand dunes, or simply dominating your daily commute.

Imagine accelerating onto the highway with authority, feeling instant throttle response as your 3.3L V6 unleashes power you didn't know was there. Picture conquering steep trails with improved low-end torque that makes technical sections easier and more confident. That's what happens when you stop restricting your engine and let it breathe the way Nissan's engineers intended.

Heat Shield Technology: The Secret to Real Cold Air

Here's what separates this system from basic intake kits: the integrated heat shield. Many so-called "cold air intakes" simply relocate the filter inside your engine bay, where it still draws hot air. That's not cold air—that's just rearranged hot air, and hot air robs power.

This system's engineered heat shield creates a barrier between your intake and the intense heat of your engine bay. By isolating the filter and drawing air from outside the engine compartment, you're feeding your V6 genuinely cold, oxygen-rich air. Cold air is denser, meaning more oxygen molecules per cubic inch, which enables more complete combustion and translates directly into measurable power gains.

The result? A proven 10% increase in horsepower and torque—power you'll feel immediately throughout the entire RPM range.

Key Features at a Glance

• Perfect Fitment: Engineered for 2000-2004 Nissan Xterra with 3.3L V6 (N/A & Supercharged), all transmission types
• Proven Power Gains: Up to 10% increase in both horsepower and torque
• Integrated Heat Shield: Ensures genuinely cold air intake for maximum performance
• Premium T304 Aluminum: Lightweight, corrosion-resistant piping for durability and show-quality appearance
• High-Flow Filtration: Advanced filter engineered for exceptional airflow without sacrificing protection
• Enhanced Throttle Response: Feel instant improvement in engine responsiveness
• Aggressive Sound: Deep, sporty intake note that announces your presence
• Washable Filter: Clean only every 50,000 miles under normal driving—saves hundreds over time
• Complete System: Replaces factory air filter and restrictive intake tube
• 60-Minute Installation: DIY-friendly with basic hand tools
• Warranty Safe: Will not void your vehicle warranty

Supercharged? This Intake Has You Covered

Running a supercharged Xterra? You already know the addictive rush of forced induction. But here's the thing: superchargers are air pumps, and the more cold, dense air you feed them, the more power they can generate. Your factory intake becomes an even bigger bottleneck when you're pushing boost.

This cold air intake is specifically engineered to work flawlessly with both naturally aspirated and supercharged 3.3L V6 engines. For supercharged applications, the benefits are even more dramatic—improved boost response, better intercooler efficiency from colder inlet temperatures, and measurably more power throughout the powerband. You didn't add a supercharger to drive conservatively, so give it the air it's been begging for.

Premium T304 Aluminum Construction

This isn't assembled from bargain-bin parts. The intake piping is constructed from lightweight T304 aluminum—the same aerospace-grade material trusted in high-performance and marine applications. This premium construction delivers multiple advantages:

• Extreme Heat Resistance: Won't warp, crack, or degrade from engine bay temperatures
• Superior Corrosion Resistance: Stands up to moisture, salt, mud, and harsh off-road conditions
• Lightweight Design: Reduces weight compared to factory components without sacrificing strength
• Professional Appearance: Polished finish transforms your engine bay into show-quality territory
• Smooth Internal Surface: Maximizes airflow by eliminating turbulence and restriction
• Built to Last: Engineered for decades of reliable performance, not just a few seasons

The mandrel-bent tubing features smooth, gradual curves that maximize airflow through your stock manifold system. Every bend is optimized to eliminate turbulence and restriction, ensuring your engine receives a smooth, unrestricted supply of cold air.

Why Upgrade from Your Factory Air Box?

Your Xterra rolled off the assembly line with an intake system designed around three priorities: low cost, quiet operation, and emissions compliance. Performance wasn't even on the list. This cold air intake with heat shield was engineered with one singular focus: unleashing your 3.3L V6's full potential. Here's what you gain:

• Gain More Horsepower: Proven 10% increase—power you'll feel every time you drive
• Better Acceleration: Improved throttle response makes merging, passing, and climbing effortless
• Improved Fuel Economy: More efficient combustion can reduce fuel consumption, especially on highway drives
• Enhanced Sound: Deep, throaty intake growl that transforms every acceleration into an event
• Sporty Engine Look: Polished aluminum and professional appearance showcase your enthusiasm
• Spend Less on Filters: One washable filter replaces years of disposable paper filters—save hundreds
• Low Maintenance: Clean only every 50,000 miles under normal driving conditions
• Better Off-Road Performance: Improved airflow helps maintain power in dusty, demanding conditions

That Addictive Performance Sound

Let's talk about one of the most satisfying benefits: the sound. Pop your hood, fire up your Xterra, and press the throttle. You'll immediately hear a deep, aggressive induction note—the unmistakable sound of your V6 breathing freely. It's not obnoxiously loud or droning on the highway, but when you accelerate, you'll hear that throaty growl that confirms your Xterra isn't stock anymore.

This is the sound of performance, the audible feedback that your engine is working more efficiently and powerfully. Whether you're launching from a stoplight or powering up a technical trail, that intake roar becomes the soundtrack to your adventures. You'll find yourself rolling down the windows just to hear it better.

Advanced Filtration Meets Maximum Airflow

The included high-performance air filter represents a massive leap over your restrictive factory paper element. This advanced filter is engineered using multi-layer filtration media that captures contaminants down to microscopic sizes while flowing significantly more air than stock. Your engine gets the clean air it needs for protection while receiving the unrestricted airflow it demands for performance.

And here's where you save serious money: this filter is washable and reusable. Instead of replacing disposable filters every 12,000-15,000 miles at $25-40 each, simply clean and re-oil this filter every 50,000 miles under normal driving conditions. Over the life of your Xterra, that's $400-600 saved—essentially making this upgrade pay for itself while delivering better performance.

Filter Maintenance Made Simple

1. Remove the filter from your intake system
2. Spray with filter cleaner and let soak for 10 minutes
3. Rinse thoroughly with low-pressure water from the clean side out
4. Let air dry completely (never use compressed air or heat)
5. Apply filter oil evenly and let soak for 20 minutes
6. Reinstall and enjoy another 50,000 miles of performance

Simple Installation—Adventure Awaits in Under an Hour

You don't need a professional shop or specialized tools. This cold air intake system installs in less than 60 minutes using basic hand tools you probably already own—screwdrivers and socket wrenches. The bolt-on design makes installation straightforward enough for first-timers yet precision-engineered for experienced enthusiasts.

Here's the process:

1. Disconnect battery: Safety first—always disconnect before performing engine work
2. Remove factory air box: Unbolt and disconnect the restrictive factory intake system
3. Install heat shield: Mount the integrated heat shield in the proper location
4. Install intake piping: Follow included instructions to route and secure the aluminum tubing
5. Install filter: Attach the high-flow filter to complete your system
6. Reconnect sensors: Plug in mass airflow sensor and any other disconnected components
7. Double-check everything: Ensure all clamps are tight and connections are secure

Many Xterra owners find helpful installation videos on YouTube demonstrating the air box removal process. The direct-fit design makes installation intuitive—no cutting, drilling, or permanent modifications required.

Critical Pro Tip: After installation, reset your battery terminal for approximately 30 seconds. This clears your engine computer's (ECU) learned parameters and allows it to recalibrate for the dramatically increased airflow. Your Xterra will immediately "learn" the new intake and optimize fuel mapping, timing, and throttle response. You'll notice peak performance from your very first drive. Always disconnect your battery when performing engine work for safety.

Universal Compatibility—Built for Your Adventure

Perfect Fitment for:

• 2000-2004 Nissan Xterra with 3.3L V6 (VG33E) Naturally Aspirated Engine
• 2000-2004 Nissan Xterra with 3.3L V6 Supercharged Engine
• Compatible with both Manual and Automatic Transmissions
• Works with 2WD and 4WD models

Whether you're driving a naturally aspirated daily driver or a supercharged weekend warrior, this intake system is precision-engineered for your exact engine configuration, ensuring perfect fit and optimal performance gains.

Warranty Safe—Performance Without Compromise

Concerned about voiding your warranty? Don't be. This cold air intake system will not void your vehicle warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects your rights, and this intake is designed as a bolt-on replacement that doesn't require permanent modifications to your vehicle.

You can enjoy measurable performance gains, improved sound, and better efficiency without sacrificing the peace of mind that comes with warranty protection. It's the best of both worlds—genuine performance without the worry.

Your Benefits at a Glance

Immediate Transformation: Feel the power gains, improved throttle response, and hear that addictive intake sound from your first drive. This isn't subtle—it's a genuinely noticeable upgrade.

Long-Term Savings: The washable, reusable filter eliminates ongoing replacement costs. Over 100,000 miles, that's $400-600 saved while enjoying better performance.

Off-Road Advantage: Better airflow means consistent power in dusty, demanding conditions where factory intakes struggle. Conquer trails with confidence.

Show-Quality Appearance: Transform your engine bay from factory-boring to enthusiast-approved with polished T304 aluminum that looks as good as it performs.

All-Conditions Reliability: Engineered and tested to perform flawlessly in extreme heat, cold, dust, mud, and everything between. Built for real-world adventure.

Built for the Way You Drive

The Xterra wasn't designed as a mall-crawler or pavement princess—it was built to explore, to adventure, to go places other vehicles can't. This cold air intake honors that spirit by delivering benefits across every driving scenario:

• Technical Off-Roading: Improved low-end torque helps you crawl over obstacles with more control
• High-Speed Desert Running: Better airflow maintains power in hot, dusty conditions
• Highway Cruising: Improved fuel economy and effortless passing power for long road trips
• Mountain Passes: More power at altitude where thin air robs naturally aspirated engines
• Daily Commuting: Instant throttle response makes every drive more engaging and enjoyable