The K&N 71-3527 is a 71 Series Blackhawk Induction kit for the 2011-2014 Ford Mustang GT with the 5.0L V8. It replaces the factory air filter and intake tube with a black powder-coated aluminum tube and an oil-free Dryflow synthetic filter, and a steel heat shield helps keep intake air away from engine-bay heat. The manufacturer's estimated gain is 14.25 HP at 4,808 RPM, based on its dyno chart for a 2014 GT. Owners on user forums say that a no-retune intake usually delivers modest power, so the stronger reasons to buy this kit are the sound, the reusable filter, and the lifetime warranty. Compared with a stock airbox fitted with a K&N filter, the full kit offers a larger, smoother tube and a cleaner black engine-bay look. Searches for 2011-2014 Mustang GT cold air intake, 71 series Blackhawk intake, and oil-free Dryflow filter fit this product well.
Fitment is limited to the 2011-2014 Mustang GT 5.0L, and the kit is not legal for sale or use in California. The manufacturer says a typical installation takes 90 minutes or less with basic hand tools, and the kit includes the filter, tube, couplers, clamps, and hardware. Per the manufacturer's install sheet, you should disconnect the negative battery cable before starting, note any radio or memory settings first, and use only the supplied hardware, since substitutes may damage the intake tube, throttle body, or engine. The filter is designed to be washed and reused. The manufacturer specifies cleaning roughly every 50,000 miles under normal highway driving, which cuts down on the paper filter replacements a stock setup would need.
The manufacturer lists an estimated gain of 14.25 HP, measured on a 2014 Mustang GT. Owners on user forums commonly report that gains without a retune are small, and many suggest a tune to get the most from the intake. Details vary, so confirm expected results with the manufacturer.
No. The manufacturer lists the 71-3527 as not legal for sale or use in California.
The manufacturer specifies cleaning about every 50,000 miles under normal highway driving. Drivers in dustier conditions may want to inspect the filter more often.
The manufacturer rates the job as a 60-90 minute install with a wrench, extension, flat-blade screwdriver, and Allen wrench. The install sheet also calls for a 3mm extension, 8mm, 10mm, and 13mm sockets, a T20 Torx bit, and pliers. Expect to remove the strut tower brace if your car has one, and to cut the clamp holding the engine pulse hose so you can cap the drum. Owners on user forums describe the process as straightforward with a helpful video walkthrough. Take your time with the mass air sensor connector and the crankcase vent hose, and keep all hardware in the kit.
