We know how difficult it can be to work on cars; believe us, we’ve had more than our share of problems over the years, too. Good thing we’re willing to share this knowledge of problem solving with you and act like we know something technical about cars. Feel free to ask us about your tech problems by writing to Super Street at tech@superstreetonline.com or Super Street, Attn: Tech Support, 831 S. Douglas St., El Segundo, CA 90245. If it helps to include a few photos to describe/illustrate your problem/project, please do so.
What Next?
Q I own a 2010 Civic with a 1.8L SOHC engine. I already installed an Injen cold-air intake, Skunk2 exhaust system, Cusco upper strut bars and Eibach springs and sway bars. I tried to install Hypertech’s tuning system, but unfortunately, it only works up to 2009 ECU’s and Hondata does not carry one at this time. I’d like to know, how I can squeeze more power from this engine by staying naturally-aspirated? Do you have any suggestions? Seems like options for the R18 is very limited.
Eddie JP
Via e-mail
A It is true that there are not as many options for the R18 motor as there is for the K-series. Seems that the K-series engines have more potential, therefore more companies support those motors—but in your case, with the R18, you can still do things here and there to increase performance. Hondata has a Flashpro you can use to fine tune with, and you can also look into a throttle body spacer and thermal intake manifold gaskets for more gains. You might want to try a cat-delete if it’s for off road use. Good luck with your build and let us know how it comes out.
Hit and Misfire
Q I have a ‘92 3000GT VR-4 that has a major issue. It started as a slight misfire and a minor annoyance. Eventually, the thing wouldn’t take throttle and I changed the engine thinking it was years of neglect that had finally caught up with the car. Now, it runs nearly perfect when it’s cold but as it warms up, the same symptoms return. It has a GReddy Profec B Spec 2 boost controller and I reused the MAF, ECU, wiring harness, and a round white sensor under the throttle body that I don’t even know what it is. Turning the boost controller off seems to help, but other than that, I am lost on how to narrow the problem down. PLEASE HELP! I put a lot of work into the car only to get the same symptoms again.
Britton Spradlin
Paintsville, KY
A Depending on your skill level and how mechanically inclined you are, we can recommend a few things that you can possibly do yourself. Check, clean and/or replace any of the following, if necessary. Try checking the following first: the air mass sensor; make sure you have an air filter that is not clogged or unusable. Check the fuel system to ensure the fuel pump, injectors and regulator are functioning properly. See that your spark plugs and coils are in good functioning order. Other than that, it may be time to take it to a professional mechanic to have it diagnosed. Based on the symptoms you have mentioned, it could be a variety of things causing issues. Hope that helps and good luck fixing your car.