The AEM 21-786C cold air intake replaces the restrictive factory air filter and intake housing on select Mazda MX-5 Miata models with a system engineered, tuned, and dyno-tested for horsepower and torque gains. Air is drawn through an oversized AEM Dryflow synthetic washable filter mounted in the stock air box location and shielded from underhood heat; an aluminum coolant overflow reservoir replaces the stock unit so the intake fits properly. Mandrel-bent aluminum tubing finished in gunmetal gray powder coat routes air to the throttle body while retaining the factory mass air flow sensor and PCV hose connections.
Installation InstructionsVehicle Applications Sheet
Specifications:
- Filter Type: AEM Dryflow oil-free, washable, reusable synthetic media (cleanable up to 100,000 miles between services)
- Filter Shape: Tapered cylinder
- Tube Material: Low-restriction mandrel-bent aluminum
- Finish: Gunmetal gray powder coat
- Includes: Replacement aluminum coolant overflow reservoir
- Warranty: AEM Lifetime Limited Warranty
- Emissions Note: Some AEM air intakes are not legal for sale or use in California and other states adopting California emission standards, while others are 50-state legal; check vehicle-specific legal status before purchase.
- Part Number: 21-786C
Vehicle Applications
- 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
- 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
- 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
- 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
- 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
- 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
- 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
- 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
- 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
- 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
- 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
- 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
- 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
- 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
- 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club
- 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club
- 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club
- 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club
- 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club
- 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club
- 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
- 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
- 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
- 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
- 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
- 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring
- 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
- 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
- 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
- 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
- 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
- 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
- 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
- 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
- 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata 100th Anniversary Special Edition
- 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF 100th Anniversary Special Edition
FAQ
What years of Mazda MX-5 Miata fit the AEM 21-786C?
The AEM 21-786C fits 2016-2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club, Grand Touring, and Sport trims (RF Club and RF Grand Touring from 2017), plus the 2020 100th Anniversary Special Edition. Note: manufacturer fitment data also lists the 2026 model year, with no 2023-2025 coverage shown in current records.
Why does the coolant reservoir need to be replaced?
A replacement aluminum coolant overflow reservoir is included because the factory reservoir does not clear the intake's heat shield and filter placement.
Is the filter washable?
Yes, the AEM Dryflow filter is oil-free, washable, and reusable for up to 100,000 miles between cleanings depending on driving conditions.
