The aFe Magnum FORCE Stage-2XP Cold Air Intake System with the Pro DRY S filter in Media Black (MPN 54-12852D) is aimed at the supercharged 6.2L HEMI in Dodge Challenger and Charger SRT Hellcat models. Owners on user forums note the kit came with a heat shield. Its element is an oil-free Pro DRY S synthetic filter, so there is no oil to reapply after cleaning. For a Hellcat CAI buyer, that means a reusable filter with less upkeep than an oiled element. No oil is necessary when servicing Pro DRY S air filters.
Cleaning is the main reason to pick this over a disposable or oiled setup. The manufacturer's Pro DRY S guidance says tapping the filter clean restores about 85% of original airflow, vacuuming restores about 96%, and a full soap-and-water wash returns it to 100%. It is recommended to clean your vehicle's filter every 20-30k miles. Owners on user forums report mixed results on performance. One says temps definitely cool down faster than stock box, while another argues the intake doesn't do anything. Buyers chasing the supercharger intake note and cooler charge air should weigh both views.
Fitment deserves a careful check before you buy. Listings disagree on model years, so confirm your exact Challenger or Charger SRT Hellcat year and trim with the manufacturer. One owner on user forums reports that the kit will fit 17 > 20 Hellcat Challenger or Charger. The manufacturer's rain shield lists this part as compatible, which matters because it adds protection against water and debris. The DIY notes below cover the clearance issues owners mention most.
No. The manufacturer's instructions say to never oil a Pro DRY S filter. Clean it with the manufacturer's Pro DRY S cleaner, rinse, and let it air dry before reinstalling.
The manufacturer lists its Magnum FORCE rain shield, part 54-12808-C, as fitting aFe intakes including 54-12852D. An owner on user forums also reports running a rain shield with a pre-filter on this setup.
The manufacturer's horsepower figures for this specific part were not confirmed in our research. Owners on user forums report mixed results, with some noting cooler intake temperatures and others reporting little difference from stock. Check with the manufacturer for current test data before expecting a specific gain.
Owners on user forums report a few fit issues worth planning for. One Hellcat owner asked whether the intake will clear without removing the plastic air duct on the hood, and another replied that they had seen a video where that had to be removed. Charger owners should also check the hood block-off shield, which one owner says aFe sells separately if needed. Another owner recommends adding a heat barrier mat to the engine bay shield. Before you start, confirm the step-by-step sequence and required tools against the instructions included with your kit, and verify fitment for your exact model year.
