2003 Vibe GT Intake and other mods.

[anmlcrckrs]

I'm a new poster, but I've been reading these forums for awhile, specifically about the whole clutch issue and other things. So, I've had my 2003 Vibe GT for a couple years now, and want to start adding a few things to it, and wanted to get some opinions on some of my ideas.First I'd like to add a new intake, and I think I've decided upon the K&N Typhoon, mainly to add a little extra power with a fairly simple installation. I've done some research, but haven't really found how the power gain compares to CAI, like the Injen or TRD kit. Is it worth the extra work of installation, cost, and cleaning the air filter for the CAI? After the intake, I was thinking about installing the Magnaflow Cat-Back for the Vibe for a little extra power as well. My main question on this is how loud is it? What I've read various as to how loud it is. I don't really want to draw a bunch of attention to myself while driving is the main thing, but I would like a good sounding exhaust note. Other mods I am considering in time: TWM shifter cable bushings, TRD Quickshifter, strut brace, and sway bar, and lowering springs. And an ACT HDSS clutch whenever mine wears out. Basically I'm just getting started, and am looking to see if I've made some good choices.

[breezd]

I put in a CAI in my 03 GT. It was actually pretty easy of an install and it isn't all that difficult to access the filter.As for power gain, I really didn't notice too much of a difference. I suppose if you pair it with other mods (exhaust) you may notice a difference. The only big difference that I really noticed was noise difference (which I personally really like!)Good luck with your mods! Gotta love the 03 GT!

[breezd]

BTW, i got my intake off of ebay. Its a no-name producer out of SoCal. But the look of the intake is comparable to the Cosmos CAI. Quality I couldn't really tell ya, but I still feel its a pretty nice CAI.Here's the link to their ebay store... http://stores.ebay.com/Zomk-Speed-Racing-Team Just look for the Matrix XRS CAI.

[AKLGT]

If I still had my 03 Vibe GT, here's what I'd suggest that seems to work the best:Full CAI, not a short ram like the K&N Typhoon. I suggest the Injen CAI. I had the TRD intake, however it threw a CEL.Magnaflow exhaust is one of the best, good deep sound, not ricer sounding and not too loud. Not as quiet as the stock obviously, however it won't make the car sound like a riced out Honda. Engine management! OK, to me this has got to be one of the most important factors to get the most for your money. I had a unichip on the car and let's say it was a big difference between running stock or with a CAI and the unichip. Though it wasn't 50 hp, it still really helped the low end torque that the GT/Vibe needs so much. I didn't have an exhaust on the car, but I know I would have enjoyed it even more with the Intake/exhaust/unichip combo. There are other ECM systems out there, just do a little research.Overall, the GT was a fun little car. If I still had it and it was paid off, it'd be turbo'd no doubt.

[anmlcrckrs]

The GT is a very fun car, I plan on having it for a very long time. I did do some research on them and plug-n-play is the route I would want to go. I was looking at the Unichip and it comes in various forms, including one for the Injen with Cat/B and another for Injen, Cat/B, and all headers. Which would I use if I wanted the Injen and the Cat Back? From what I've read on the forums, the feeling I get is there isn't really a need to upgrade the headers on the GT. Is this about right?The path I'd like to go down in an intake now, then Cat/B and possibly a Unichip at the same time, depending on how much I have to spend.

[anmlcrckrs]

Btw, what does throwing a CEL mean? I assume it's something relating to an ECU error.

[wyatt89]

gt exhaust manifold is well designed, it will be much quieter than buying a new set of headers especially when you get the magnaflow!

[AKLGT]

Quote, originally posted by anmlcrckrs »The GT is a very fun car, I plan on having it for a very long time. I did do some research on them and plug-n-play is the route I would want to go. I was looking at the Unichip and it comes in various forms, including one for the Injen with Cat/B and another for Injen, Cat/B, and all headers. Which would I use if I wanted the Injen and the Cat Back? From what I've read on the forums, the feeling I get is there isn't really a need to upgrade the headers on the GT. Is this about right?The path I'd like to go down in an intake now, then Cat/B and possibly a Unichip at the same time, depending on how much I have to spend. headers are pretty good. However, you can always port and polish them for ultimate performance. When you order the unichip, you tell them what mods you have and they can make a map for you that's installed on the chip itself. The downside to Unichip, is if you add or change your mods, you have to resend your unichip to have it reprogrammed by them. And look on the forums for a used Unichip. It's about $75 to reprogram it, maybe less. I forget how much it cost us.CEL = Check Engine Light