Are Short Ram Intakes Illegal? Find Out If It’s Legal in Your Area

Are short ram intakes illegal? Short ram intakes can be illegal in certain states, particularly in California, unless they have a valid CARB Executive Order (EO) number. In states with less strict emissions regulations, they may be legal as long as they do not interfere with the vehicle’s emissions system.

When modifying your vehicle for enhanced performance, one of the most common upgrades is the air intake system. The short ram intake (SRI) is a popular choice among car enthusiasts looking for improved throttle response and engine sound. However, a common question that arises is: “Are short ram intakes illegal?” The answer to this question is not straightforward, as the legality of short ram intakes varies significantly depending on where you live and the specific regulations governing vehicle emissions in your state or country.

In this article, we will explore the legality of short ram intakes, particularly focusing on the stringent regulations set by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) and other states that follow similar guidelines. Additionally, we’ll discuss the factors that affect the legality of short ram intakes, the consequences of using an illegal intake, and provide alternatives to ensure compliance with emissions laws.

What is a Short Ram Intake?

A short ram intake is an aftermarket air intake system designed to replace the vehicle’s stock intake. Unlike cold air intakes (CAIs), which draw air from outside the engine bay, short ram intakes use a shorter path, often pulling air from within the engine bay. This design is intended to improve airflow to the engine, which can result in gains in horsepower and throttle response.

Key Characteristics of Short Ram Intakes

Short ram intakes are designed to offer a more direct and less restrictive path for air to enter the engine, providing potential performance benefits. These intakes are typically shorter in length compared to stock systems, allowing for quicker air delivery and a more aggressive engine sound.

• Shorter Design: As the name suggests, short ram intakes are shorter than stock or cold air intake systems, which may make them easier to install.
• Material: Short ram intakes are typically made from high-quality materials like aluminum, stainless steel, or carbon fiber.
• Air Filter: The intake usually comes with a high-flow air filter, which increases air filtration efficiency compared to stock filters.
• Improved Throttle Response: The straight and less restrictive design allows for faster air delivery to the engine, which can improve acceleration and engine responsiveness.

While these advantages make the short ram intake an attractive option for those seeking minor performance boosts, the legality of the modification depends on local emissions standards and regulations.

Legal Considerations for Short Ram Intakes

The legality of short ram intakes is primarily determined by emissions standards, which vary across different states and countries. The most notable set of regulations comes from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), which is known for having some of the strictest vehicle emissions laws in the United States. These laws are designed to reduce air pollution and promote cleaner vehicle emissions. As a result, aftermarket parts like short ram intakes are heavily regulated to ensure they do not negatively impact the vehicle’s emissions output.

CARB Regulations: A Key Factor in Legality

In California, any modification that affects the vehicle’s emission control system—such as an aftermarket intake system—must be approved by CARB. To be legally used on the road, a short ram intake (or any other aftermarket part) must have a CARB Executive Order (EO) number, which indicates that the part has been tested and approved by CARB for use in that specific vehicle model.

If a short ram intake does not have this EO number, it is considered illegal in California and will not pass the state’s rigorous emissions inspections. Furthermore, using an unapproved intake can result in fines, penalties, or a failed smog inspection, making it impossible to legally drive the vehicle in California.

How to Check for a CARB EO Number

To determine whether a short ram intake is legal in California, follow these steps:

1. Look for a CARB EO Number on the Intake: Many short ram intakes will have a CARB EO number labeled on the product or packaging. This number signifies that the intake has been tested and approved by CARB.
2. Search the CARB Executive Orders Database: CARB maintains an online database of approved aftermarket parts. You can search this database by the EO number to verify whether the short ram intake is approved for use in your vehicle.
3. Consult the Manufacturer: If you cannot find an EO number on the intake itself, check with the manufacturer. They should be able to confirm whether their short ram intake has CARB approval.

Legal Status of Short Ram Intakes in Other States

While California has the strictest emissions standards, other states have adopted similar regulations, particularly those that follow CARB’s guidelines. These states include:

• New York
• New Jersey
• Massachusetts
• Oregon
• Washington

In these states, short ram intakes must also be CARB-approved to be considered legal. If you reside in one of these states, ensure that the short ram intake has a CARB EO number before installation.

On the other hand, many other states follow federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations, which are typically less strict than CARB standards. In these states, aftermarket intakes may not require a CARB EO number, but they must still comply with federal emissions standards. Generally, as long as the intake does not interfere with the vehicle’s emissions control systems, it may be legal to install.

However, it’s important to note that local regulations may vary, and certain regions may still have specific rules regarding emissions and vehicle modifications. Always check with your state or local authorities to ensure compliance.

Consequences of Installing an Illegal Short Ram Intake

Using a short ram intake that is not legal in your state can lead to several serious consequences, including:

1. Failed Emissions Inspections: In CARB-regulated states, vehicles with illegal short ram intakes will fail emissions inspections, meaning you will not be able to renew your vehicle’s registration until the intake is replaced with a legal one.
2. Fines and Penalties: Installing an unapproved aftermarket intake system can result in fines from local authorities or regulatory bodies. In California, these fines can be significant, and repeat violations can lead to more severe penalties.
3. Voided Warranty: If your vehicle is still under warranty, modifying the intake system with an illegal part could void the warranty. Manufacturers often void warranties for vehicles with unauthorized modifications, particularly those affecting the emissions system.
4. Environmental Impact: Using an unapproved intake system can increase vehicle emissions, contributing to air pollution. This is particularly problematic in areas with strict air quality standards, where excessive emissions are a serious concern.
5. Legal Issues: In some cases, you may be required to remove the illegal intake and replace it with a stock or legal aftermarket system. This could involve additional repair costs and potential legal complications.

Alternatives to Short Ram Intakes

If you’re concerned about the legality of short ram intakes in your area, consider the following alternatives:

1. Cold Air Intakes (CAI)

Cold air intakes draw air from outside the engine bay, which is generally cooler and denser. As a result, CAIs often provide better performance compared to short ram intakes. Many cold air intakes are also available with CARB EO numbers, making them legal in CARB-regulated states.

2. High-Flow Panel Filters

A simple and cost-effective alternative is replacing your vehicle’s stock air filter with a high-flow panel filter. This option improves airflow without modifying the intake system itself, ensuring compliance with emissions regulations.

3. Consult with Professionals

If you are unsure about the legality of a short ram intake or any other aftermarket modification, consult with automotive professionals or legal experts. They can provide guidance on the best options for your vehicle and location, ensuring that you stay within legal boundaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some FAQs about short ram intake legality-

1. Are short ram intakes legal in California?

Yes, short ram intakes are legal in California only if they have a valid CARB Executive Order (EO) number. Without this, they are considered illegal.

2. Can I use a short ram intake in other states?

In states that do not follow CARB regulations, short ram intakes may be legal without a CARB EO number, but you should still check with local authorities to ensure compliance with emissions laws.

3. What happens if I use an illegal short ram intake?

Using an illegal short ram intake can result in fines, failed emissions tests, and potentially voided vehicle warranties.

4. How can I check if a short ram intake is CARB-approved?

Look for the CARB EO number on the product or search for it in the CARB Executive Orders database to verify its legality.

5. What are the benefits of a cold air intake compared to a short ram intake?

Cold air intakes draw cooler, denser air from outside the engine, which generally provides better performance and is often more beneficial than a short ram intake. Read more about Cold Air Intake vs Short Ram Intake.

Conclusion

The legality of short ram intakes depends on where you live and your adherence to local emissions regulations. While short ram intakes are a popular modification for enhancing engine performance, it’s essential to ensure they are CARB-approved in regulated states like California. By verifying the intake’s legality through the CARB EO process or checking local regulations, you can avoid legal and environmental issues.

If you’re concerned about the legality of a short ram intake in your area, consider alternatives such as cold air intakes or high-flow filters that offer similar performance benefits while staying within legal boundaries.