How can I increase power to my malibu??

I have a 98 malibu 3.1 v6, about 116.600 miles. Last year the intake manifold gasket was changed, and the gasket of the engine block, It was just starting to mix water wirth oil, but now that is fixed runs ok in relation with it. I was wondering if I could get some air filter (the one that is roundedlike racing models) and eliminmate the square factory air filter). If posible can I just connect it exactly where the original filter is connected (just after the air mass sensor). Would that cause any damage my motor? over heating problem? fuel consumption? any problem that the new filter may cause?.
what other upgrades can I do to my malibu just to have a little more power with spending a lot of money?

My opinion: The money spent on a CAI kit for your Malibu would be better spent on a week's worth of yummy steak dinners.

Mmm steak.

-Mark T.

I agree, I have seen many vehicles with those oiled air filters cause problems. Mostly they cause the computer to read incorrectly and the check engine light comes on. Before you change it, just make sure it is a dry filter. I'm not really sure how much you will gain by just changing an air filter. I haven't heard of or seen any performance mods. for Malibu. Good luck.

The problem with oiled filters is people overdoing it with the oil. A properly oiled K&N, for example, air filter shouldn't cause problems. An over-coiled filter can foul sensors in the airtube [MAF sensor is the big one].

Any chain is only as good as its weakest link. The car's components are pretty well balanced from the factory. You'd essentially have to build a new freakin' car to get anywhere with performance in your Malibu.

That's why I tend to suggest buying a quicker car. -- or steak Mmm.

I removed the intake silencer that comes up under the drivers headlight to open up airflow.

I removed the intake silencer that comes up under the drivers headlight to open up airflow.


Me too!

I removed the intake silencer that comes up under the drivers headlight to open up airflow.

Removing the silencer, does actually increase some hp? Did you felt any difference? How about fuel consumption?

Removing the silencer, does actually increase some hp? Did you felt any difference? How about fuel consumption?

It's always good to get a little more air into the engine, it's just a big air pump to begin with. It might just be me but I did seem to notice a little better throttle response on the butt dyno. My mpg's has always been around 20 city, 28 hwy, didn't notice any change there. I don't like those aftermarket round air filters, especially if it's under the hood sucking warm air. Just take off the silencer and look at the nice big round opening for pulling in cool air from the fender well, and it's free!