Modding the Second Time Around

[Johnny5]

I purchased the Vibe to be a solid daily driver that has enough room for most applications and get good gas mileage. I do understand the basics of modding and fell into the "mod-bug" with a 2000 TransAm. One thing I seemed to learn while modding it is that some mods were a waste or not worth the $$$. The other thing was after getting some of the mods I had wished I had just gone over to home depot and picked up the parts for a fraction of the cost.My main mod is to get every ounce of mileage from the car that is easily obtained through some minor bolt-on's. The first two that come to mind are an intake and swapping to synthetic oil after a little more break-in time.Is there any reason at all that you couldn't just fabricate you own intake and save some dollars? Intakes are a pipe, some clamps and a filter and I don't get why they are from $180-$240. I can paint or polish metal and won't be entering any shows or anything so looks come second to function.Do you actually get better mileage? I ask because when I got one for the TA I hit the gas more to use the new power and never checked.Anyone done this yet and have a write-up or any issues trying it?- john

[northvibe]

I bought a used TRD cai for my 04 vibe and my mileage when i actually found time to drive good went up 2mpg. I think there are some cheaper cai's that will work, cosmo, the cheap ebay knock off and weapon R might have one too. Just make sure if you get a cheap ebay one that you make sure the pipping is clean sometimes they have chunks of metal in them.

[Mavrik]

If your looking for a good cheap intake, go cosmo intake. I wouldn't go as far as to make one. It could result in some serious issues if not done correctly.

[AKLGT]

i wouldn't waste your time making a CAI unless you want to deal with a CEL. otherwise, buy a used CAI or a cosmo or Bomz SR on ebay.

[ZubenElGenubi]

Quote, originally posted by Johnny5 »Do you actually get better mileage? I ask because when I got one for the TA I hit the gas more to use the new power and never checked.After I got my CAI, my mileage dropped considerably for the first couple of tanks....because I apparently also installed a lead foot as well! However, once I got my driving habits back to normal, I noticed an improvement of about 2 mpg as well (actually, 1.65...just checked my spreadsheet).