Intercoolers

When you’re chasing more power from a turbo or supercharged engine, keeping intake temperatures under control is critical—and that’s exactly what an intercooler kit is designed to do. By cooling the compressed air before it enters your engine, an intercooler delivers a denser air charge, which means better combustion, more horsepower, and improved torque. It’s one of the simplest and most effective performance upgrades you can make, whether you’re building a street car or pushing for maximum results on the track.

Not all intercoolers are created equal, though. Front-mount intercooler kits (FMIC) are the go-to choice for performance cars because they sit in the direct airflow at the front of the vehicle, maximising cooling efficiency. Compared to a top-mount setup, a front-mount kit is generally better at resisting heat soak during spirited driving or racing conditions. The result? More consistent power delivery and less strain on your engine when you’re pushing it hard.

At Empire Performance, we specialise in supplying intercooler kits that strike the right balance between fitment, efficiency, and performance gains—so you can be confident you’re getting a solution that works as good as it looks. For everyday drivers, an intercooler upgrade isn’t just about big dyno numbers. It also helps improve engine reliability and can even make your car feel smoother under load, especially in hot Australian conditions.

We stock only proven brands and designs that are built to handle both daily driving and high-performance use. When you buy through Empire Performance, you’re not just getting an intercooler kit—you’re getting trusted advice, quality components, and Australia-wide support to help you get the most out of your setup.

Choosing the Right Intercooler Kit

Picking the right intercooler kit for your car isn’t just about grabbing the biggest one you can find—it’s about matching the kit to your setup and your goals. Too small, and it won’t keep intake temps under control; too large, and you may run into unnecessary lag or tricky fitment issues. That’s why size, core design, and piping layout are so important. At Empire Performance, we stock intercooler kits that are engineered specifically for popular performance platforms, so you get the cooling efficiency you need without the headaches of poor fitment.

Brand reputation is another factor worth considering. We’ve seen plenty of cheap, generic kits that promise big gains but don’t deliver when it counts. The intercooler is the frontline of your forced induction system, and you want one that’s tested, durable, and proven to perform under pressure. That’s why we partner with trusted names in the industry and back our range with honest advice. Whether you’re chasing a reliable upgrade for your daily driver or pushing for serious gains on the dyno, we can point you to the right intercooler kit for your build.

Installation, Maintenance & Practical Use

Most intercooler kits are designed to be as close to bolt-in as possible, but some vehicles may require trimming or adjustments for perfect fitment. If you’re confident with tools, a DIY install is achievable, but for many customers, we recommend professional fitting to make sure everything lines up properly and no boost leaks are introduced. And remember, after installing an intercooler, a tune may be recommended to unlock the full performance benefits and ensure your car runs safely with the cooler intake temps.

Once installed, intercooler kits are low-maintenance, but it’s still worth keeping an eye on them. Periodic checks for loose clamps, cracked silicone joiners, or oil build-up inside the core will help you maintain peak performance. A quality intercooler kit should last the life of your vehicle, and with the brands we stock at Empire Performance, you can expect reliability in both daily driving and high-boost conditions. Our goal is to give you the confidence that your intercooler is doing its job—keeping your engine cooler, your power consistent, and your build running strong.