The Dodge Charger 5.7 HEMI is a capable platform straight from the factory, but many owners know its true potential is unlocked with the right modifications. Whether you're chasing more horsepower, a better exhaust note, or increased throttle response, aftermarket parts from trusted brands can transform your driving experience. This guide focuses on four top-tier manufacturers—K&N, Borla, AEM, and Comp Cams—whose products are proven to deliver real, measurable gains on the 5.7 HEMI. We’ll dive deep into each brand’s offerings, the technology behind them, and how they work together to build a cohesive performance package.

Why Aftermarket Mods Matter for the 5.7 HEMI

The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 responds well to breathing improvements and valvetrain upgrades. Factory intake and exhaust systems are designed for noise compliance and cost, leaving power on the table. Simple bolt-ons like a cold air intake and cat-back exhaust can add 15–25 horsepower, while a camshaft swap can push gains over 50 horsepower when paired with proper tuning. Choosing the right brand ensures you get components that fit correctly, last long, and perform as advertised. Below we examine each brand’s core strengths and why they belong on your short list.

K&N Performance Products: Airflow Innovation

K&N has been a household name in performance filtration for decades. Their washable, reusable cotton gauze filters are the gold standard for high-flow intake systems. For the Dodge Charger 5.7 HEMI, K&N offers both drop-in replacement filters and complete cold air intake kits.

K&N Cold Air Intake Systems

The K&N 63 Series and 77 Series cold air intakes are engineered to pull cooler, denser air from outside the engine bay. These systems feature a mandrel-bent aluminum tube with a smooth interior to reduce airflow restriction, capped with a large high-flow conical filter. On a 5.7 HEMI, a K&N intake typically adds 10–15 horsepower at the wheels and improves throttle response. The kit includes all necessary hardware and can be installed in under an hour.

  • Proven power gains: Independent dyno tests show gains up to 15 hp and 12 lb-ft of torque.
  • Reusable filter: Clean every 50,000 miles; no replacements needed.
  • No-tune required: Fits factory MAF calibration for worry-free daily driving.

K&N High-Flow Drop-In Air Filters

If you prefer to keep your stock airbox, a K&N drop-in filter is a quick upgrade. It replaces the factory paper element with a high-flow cotton gauze design that flows significantly better while trapping more dirt. This is the most cost-effective mod for the 5.7 HEMI, offering a few horsepower and improved filtration for the life of the vehicle.

Why K&N Stands Out

K&N’s 10-year million-mile warranty (covering the filter, not the engine) speaks to durability. Their intake systems are CARB EO approved in all 50 states, which is important for owners in emissions-regulated areas. For a first mod, K&N provides an immediate seat-of-the-pants difference.

External Resource: K&N Offical Site – Check fitment for your specific Charger model year.

Borla Exhaust Systems: The Sound of Power

When it comes to exhaust, Borla is synonymous with quality. Their American-made stainless steel systems are TIG-welded, mandrel-bent, and come with a million-mile warranty. For the 5.7 HEMI, Borla offers cat-back exhausts and header systems that unlock both sound and performance.

Borla Cat-Back Exhaust Systems

The Borla S-Type and ATAK cat-back systems are the most popular choices for Charger owners. The S-Type delivers a deep, aggressive tone without drone, while the ATAK is louder and more race-inspired. Both use Borla’s patented Reflective Sound Cancellation technology to eliminate interior resonance. On the dyno, a Borla cat-back adds 8–12 horsepower and 10–15 lb-ft torque on the 5.7 HEMI, primarily by reducing backpressure.

  • Material: 304 stainless steel – corrosion resistant, polished tips.
  • Installation: Direct bolt-on with factory hangers; no cutting on most models.
  • Sound level: Choose between touring (S-Type) or aggressive (ATAK).

Borla Headers

For serious power gains, Borla’s long tube headers are a game-changer. They replace the restrictive factory exhaust manifolds with larger, smoother-flowing tubes. Combined with a cat-back, long tube headers can add 25–35 horsepower to a 5.7 HEMI. Borla headers are available in both ceramic-coated and stainless steel options. Installation is more involved and typically requires professional help, but the results are substantial.

What Makes Borla Different

Borla’s reputation rests on sound quality and fitment precision. Every system is dyno-tuned and tested on specific vehicle applications. Their million-mile warranty is non-prorated and fully transferable, adding resale value to your Charger.

External Resource: Borla Performance Industries – See the full lineup for Dodge Charger 5.7 HEMI.

AEM Air Intake Systems: Engineering for Induction

AEM (Advanced Engine Management) is another leading choice for airflow upgrades. Their intake systems are engineered with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to optimize air velocity and volume. AEM offers two distinct types of intake for the 5.7 HEMI: the standard cold air intake and the Dryflow filter option.

AEM Cold Air Intake Systems

The AEM 21-8088C is a direct-fit cold air intake for the 2015+ Charger 5.7 HEMI. It features a large reusable filter and a sealed airbox that draws air from the inner fender, away from engine heat. Gains are typically in the 12–16 hp range, with a noticeable increase in throttle response. The intake tube is mandrel-bent aluminum with a smooth powder-coated finish.

  • Filter type: Oiled cotton gauze (washable) or optional Dryflow.
  • CARB EO approved: Legal in California and other states.
  • Installation: All hardware included; simple hand tools required.

AEM Dryflow Air Filters

AEM’s Dryflow filters use a synthetic oil-free media that never requires oiling. They clean easily with only water and provide high flow rates with superior filtration. For owners who dislike the maintenance of oiled filters, Dryflow is a hassle-free alternative. They are available as drop-ins or as part of the intake kit.

AEM vs. K&N: What’s the Difference?

Both brands make excellent intakes, but AEM emphasizes flow dynamics with its CFD-optimized tube design, while K&N focuses on filter longevity and simplicity. AEM’s Dryflow option appeals to those who want minimal maintenance. In terms of power, both deliver similar gains on the 5.7 HEMI. Your choice may come down to filter preference or fitment for specific model years.

External Resource: AEM Intakes Official Site – Check application guides and dyno sheets.

Comp Cams: Valvetrain and Camshaft Upgrades

For enthusiasts seeking serious horsepower, Comp Cams is the premier name in camshafts and valvetrain components. On the 5.7 HEMI, a cam swap is one of the most effective modifications you can make, but it requires careful component selection and supporting bolt-ons.

Comp Cams Camshafts for the 5.7 HEMI

Comp Cams offers several camshaft profiles tailored to the Charger’s multi-displacement system (MDS) and variable valve timing (VVT). Popular choices include the 268TH and 275TH stage cams. These provide increased lift and duration, shifting the power band higher and adding 30–50 horsepower over stock, depending on supporting mods. Comp Cams uses precision-ground lobes on billet steel cores for durability.

  • MDS compatible: Many cams retain cylinder deactivation for fuel economy.
  • VVT phasers: Works with factory phaser; some cams require phaser limiter.
  • Performance gains: Up to 50 hp with proper tuning and headers.

Comp Cams Valve Springs and Retainers

Upgrading valve springs is essential when installing a more aggressive cam. Stock springs can’t handle higher lift and RPM, leading to valve float and potential engine damage. Comp Cams offers springs with higher seat pressure and increased lift capacity. Their 26918-KIT includes springs, retainers, and locks designed for HEMI heads. These components ensure valvetrain stability up to 6500+ RPM.

Supporting Mods for a Cam Swap

A cam upgrade requires a proper tune via a handheld programmer or custom dyno calibration. It also pairs best with headers, cold air intake, and a cat-back exhaust to fully breathe. Comp Cams provides cam timing recommendations and spring setups for each profile. Expect a lumpy idle and more aggressive power delivery.

External Resource: Comp Cams Official Site – Use cam finder for your specific Charger engine code.

Building a Cohesive Setup: Combining Brands

While each brand excels in its category, the real magic happens when you combine them. A typical stage 1 build might include a K&N cold air intake, Borla cat-back exhaust, and a Comp Cams stage 1 camshaft with valve springs. This combination can push a 5.7 HEMI to 380–400 rear-wheel horsepower, a solid gain over stock. Step up to a stage 2 setup with long tube headers and a more aggressive cam, and you’re looking at 420+ RWHP.

When mixing parts from different manufacturers, ensure all components are compatible. For example, some cold air intakes may not fit with aftermarket radiator supports, and camshafts require tuning to dial in timing and air/fuel ratios. Many dyno shops offer package deals using these exact brands.

Installation Considerations and Tuning

Cold air intakes and cat-back exhausts are DIY-friendly and can be installed at home with basic tools. Cam swaps and headers require more skill – including pulling the intake manifold, timing cover, and often the cylinder heads for spring replacement. Professional installation is recommended unless you have experience with modern HEMI engines.

After a cam or header install, a custom tune from a reputable shop (or a remote tuner via email) is necessary. Without it, the engine may run rough, set check engine lights, and leave power untapped. Handheld tuners like Diablosport Trinity or HP Tuners can be used to upload a tune from a file. Always dyno-verify results.

Other Notable Brands for 5.7 HEMI Mods

While K&N, Borla, AEM, and Comp Cams are leaders, don’t overlook these additional brands that also produce quality parts for the Charger 5.7 HEMI:

  • Mopar Performance: Factory-backed upgrades including cold air intakes and cat-back exhausts with Mopar warranty.
  • MagnaFlow: Excellent exhaust systems with a distinct sound; also made of stainless steel.
  • Edelbrock: Known for supercharger kits but also offers high-flow intake manifolds and throttle bodies for the HEMI.
  • AFE Power: Competes directly with K&N and AEM for cold air intake solutions, with unique scoop designs.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Path

Modifying a Dodge Charger 5.7 HEMI is a rewarding journey that can tailor the car to your exact preferences. Whether you start with a simple K&N drop-in filter and Borla exhaust, or jump straight to a Comp Cams camshaft and full exhaust system, the key is using parts from reputable manufacturers that stand behind their products. The four brands covered here have decades of HEMI-specific engineering and widespread community support. They are proven to deliver power, reliability, and pride of ownership. Invest in quality components, pair them with proper tuning, and your Charger will reward you every time the throttle opens.