An intercooler is a heat exchanger used in turbocharged and supercharged engines to cool the compressed air before it enters the engine's combustion chambers.

How It Works: When a turbocharger or supercharger compresses air, that air becomes very hot (often 200-300°F or more). The intercooler cools this hot, compressed air back down before it goes into the engine.

Why Cooling Compressed Air Matters:

• Denser air - Cooler air is denser, meaning more oxygen molecules fit in the same space

• More power - Denser air allows for more fuel to be burned, creating more power

• Prevents detonation - Hot air can cause engine knock/ping, which can damage the engine

• Improved efficiency - Cooler intake temperatures help the engine run more efficiently

Types of Intercoolers:

Air-to-Air (most common):

• Uses ambient air flowing through fins to cool the compressed air

• Usually mounted in front of the radiator or in the bumper area

• Simpler design, lighter weight

• Works well at highway speeds but less effective at idle/low speeds

Air-to-Water:

• Uses coolant/water to remove heat from the compressed air

• More compact design, can be mounted anywhere

• More consistent cooling performance

• Better for stop-and-go driving

• More complex with additional pumps, radiators, and plumbing

Performance Benefits:

• Increased horsepower and torque

• More consistent power delivery

• Better engine reliability and longevity

• Allows for higher boost pressures safely

Common Locations:

• Front-mount (FMIC) - in front of radiator

• Top-mount (TMIC) - on top of engine

• Side-mount - in wheel wells or bumper areas

Intercoolers are essential components for any forced induction engine to maximize performance while maintaining reliability.