Tuning A '99 Honda Civic Hatchback: A Guide

Hey guys! So, you're thinking about tuning your 1999 Honda Civic Hatchback? Awesome choice! The '99 Civic hatch is a legendary platform for tuning, offering a great balance of simplicity, reliability, and aftermarket support. Whether you're aiming for street performance, track days, or just a cool daily driver, this guide will walk you through the essential aspects of tuning your beloved Civic. Let's dive in and transform your ride into something truly special.

Engine Tuning: Unleashing the Beast

When it comes to engine tuning for your '99 Civic Hatchback, you've got several avenues to explore, each with its own set of considerations. The first step is identifying your engine type – is it a D-series, B-series, or something else entirely? This will dictate the parts you can use and the tuning strategies you'll employ. Let's break down some common engine modifications.

Intake and Exhaust Upgrades

Starting with the basics, upgrading your intake and exhaust systems is a fantastic way to improve airflow and unlock some hidden horsepower. A cold air intake (CAI) can bring cooler, denser air into your engine, while a performance exhaust system reduces backpressure, allowing your engine to breathe more freely. When selecting these components, make sure they are compatible with your engine and designed to work together for optimal results. Don't just slap on any intake or exhaust – do your research and choose quality brands known for their performance gains.

ECU Tuning

Once you've made some bolt-on modifications, such as intake and exhaust upgrades, it's time to consider ECU (Engine Control Unit) tuning. The ECU is the brain of your engine, controlling various parameters like fuel delivery, ignition timing, and air-fuel ratio. Tuning your ECU can optimize these settings to match your modifications, resulting in improved horsepower, torque, and throttle response. There are several options for ECU tuning, including piggyback ECUs, standalone ECUs, and remapping your factory ECU. Each option has its pros and cons, so choose the one that best suits your budget and goals.

Internal Engine Modifications

For those seeking serious power gains, internal engine modifications are the way to go. This involves upgrading components like camshafts, pistons, connecting rods, and cylinder heads. Upgrading your camshaft can significantly alter your engine's powerband, while high-compression pistons can increase power output. Porting and polishing your cylinder head can improve airflow, and stronger connecting rods can handle increased power levels. However, internal engine modifications require specialized knowledge and tools, so it's best to leave this to experienced professionals.

Forced Induction: Turbocharging or Supercharging

If you're looking for a substantial power boost, forced induction is the answer. Turbocharging and supercharging are two methods of forcing more air into your engine, resulting in significant horsepower gains. Turbocharging uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine, while supercharging uses a belt-driven compressor. Both options require extensive modifications to your engine and fuel system, including upgrading your fuel injectors, fuel pump, and engine management system. Forced induction can be expensive and complex, but the results can be truly impressive.

Suspension Tuning: Handling Like a Dream

Alright, so you've got the engine purring like a kitten – now let's talk about suspension. A well-tuned suspension is crucial for improving your '99 Civic Hatchback's handling, stability, and overall driving experience. Upgrading your suspension components can reduce body roll, improve cornering grip, and provide a more comfortable ride. Let's explore some common suspension modifications.

Lowering Springs and Coilovers

One of the most popular suspension modifications is lowering your car. Lowering springs and coilovers are two options for reducing your car's ride height. Lowering springs are a cost-effective way to improve handling and appearance, while coilovers offer adjustable ride height and damping, allowing you to fine-tune your suspension to your exact preferences. When choosing lowering springs or coilovers, make sure they are compatible with your car and designed for your intended use.

Upgraded Shocks and Struts

Upgrading your shocks and struts is another essential suspension modification. Performance shocks and struts can improve damping, reduce body roll, and provide a more controlled ride. There are several types of shocks and struts available, including gas-charged, adjustable, and monotube designs. Choose the ones that best suit your driving style and budget. Pair these with your lowering springs or coilovers for a complete suspension overhaul.

Sway Bars and Strut Tower Braces

Sway bars (also known as anti-roll bars) and strut tower braces are designed to improve your car's handling by reducing body roll and increasing chassis stiffness. Sway bars connect the left and right sides of your suspension, reducing body roll during cornering. Strut tower braces connect the strut towers, stiffening the chassis and improving handling. These modifications are relatively easy to install and can make a noticeable difference in your car's handling.

Bushings and Ball Joints

Replacing worn or stock bushings and ball joints with performance alternatives can significantly improve your car's handling and responsiveness. Polyurethane bushings are stiffer than rubber bushings, reducing suspension flex and improving handling. Upgraded ball joints can also improve steering precision and reduce play in the suspension. These modifications may seem minor, but they can have a significant impact on your car's overall handling.

Brake Tuning: Stopping Power

With all that extra horsepower and improved handling, you'll need some serious stopping power to match. Upgrading your brakes is essential for ensuring your '99 Civic Hatchback can safely and effectively slow down. Let's take a look at some common brake modifications.

Upgraded Brake Pads and Rotors

The first step in upgrading your brakes is replacing your brake pads and rotors. Performance brake pads offer improved stopping power and fade resistance compared to stock pads. Upgraded rotors can also improve braking performance and heat dissipation. When choosing brake pads and rotors, consider your driving style and intended use. For street use, a good set of performance pads and rotors will suffice. For track use, you'll need more aggressive pads and rotors designed to withstand high temperatures.

Stainless Steel Brake Lines

Stainless steel brake lines are a simple and effective upgrade that can improve your brake pedal feel and responsiveness. Stock rubber brake lines can expand under pressure, resulting in a spongy pedal feel. Stainless steel brake lines are more resistant to expansion, providing a firmer and more responsive pedal feel. This is a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can make a noticeable difference in your car's braking performance.

Big Brake Kits

For those seeking maximum stopping power, a big brake kit is the ultimate upgrade. Big brake kits typically include larger rotors, multi-piston calipers, and upgraded brake pads. These kits offer significantly improved stopping power and heat dissipation compared to stock brakes. However, big brake kits can be expensive and may require modifications to your wheels and suspension.

Aesthetic Tuning: Style Points

Okay, so your Civic is now a performance machine – but let's not forget about the looks! Aesthetic tuning is all about personalizing your car and making it stand out from the crowd. Here are some popular aesthetic modifications for your '99 Civic Hatchback.

Wheels and Tires

Upgrading your wheels and tires is one of the most impactful aesthetic modifications you can make. A new set of wheels can completely transform the look of your car, while performance tires can improve handling and grip. When choosing wheels, consider the size, style, and offset. When choosing tires, consider the tread pattern, compound, and size. Make sure your wheels and tires are compatible with your car and meet your performance needs.

Body Kits and Spoilers

Body kits and spoilers can enhance your car's appearance and aerodynamics. A body kit typically includes front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Spoilers can improve aerodynamics by reducing lift and increasing downforce. When choosing a body kit or spoiler, make sure it is made from high-quality materials and fits your car properly. Consider the overall style and design of your car when selecting these components.

Lighting Upgrades

Upgrading your car's lighting can improve visibility and enhance its appearance. LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights are popular upgrades that offer brighter and more efficient lighting. Projector headlights can also improve visibility by focusing the light beam. Consider the color temperature and style of your lights when choosing these upgrades.

Interior Modifications

Don't forget about the interior! Upgrading your seats, steering wheel, and gauges can improve comfort and style. Performance seats offer better support and comfort than stock seats. A new steering wheel can improve grip and feel. Upgraded gauges can provide more accurate and detailed information about your engine's performance. These modifications can make your car more enjoyable to drive and personalize your interior.

Conclusion: Your Civic, Your Style

Tuning your '99 Honda Civic Hatchback is a journey of self-expression and performance enhancement. Whether you're focused on engine power, handling prowess, or aesthetic appeal, the possibilities are endless. Remember to prioritize safety, research your modifications thoroughly, and work with experienced professionals when necessary. So, get out there, unleash your creativity, and transform your Civic into the ultimate driving machine! Happy tuning, guys!