Acura TL SH-AWD Manual Mods

The Acura TL SH-AWD with manual transmission is a performance-oriented luxury sedan that responds well to modifications. Below are key sections covering performance upgrades, handling improvements, aesthetic modifications, and maintenance considerations for enhancing your driving experience.

1. Performance Upgrades 2. Handling & Suspension 3. Exterior Modifications 4. Interior Enhancements 5. Exhaust Systems 6. ECU Tuning 7. Brake Upgrades 8. Wheel & Tire Packages 9. Maintenance Considerations 10. Cost Estimates 11. Professional Installation

Performance Upgrades

Key performance modifications for the J37A4 3.7L V6 engine with manual transmission.

Modification	Performance Gain
Cold Air Intake	+8-12 HP, improved throttle response
Performance Exhaust	+15-20 HP, better exhaust flow
ECU Reflash/Tuning	+20-30 HP, optimized fuel/ignition maps
Lightweight Pulleys	+5-8 HP, reduced rotational mass
Headers	+15-25 HP, improved exhaust scavenging
Forced Induction	+80-150 HP (supercharger/turbo kits)
Short Throw Shifter	Improved shift feel and precision
Lightweight Flywheel	Quicker revving, improved acceleration
Performance Clutch	Better torque handling, improved engagement
Limited Slip Differential	Enhanced traction and cornering

Handling & Suspension

Enhance the SH-AWD system's capabilities with suspension modifications.

Coilover Suspension: Adjustable height and damping for track/street use
Sway Bars: Reduced body roll, improved cornering stability
Strut Tower Braces: Increased chassis rigidity
Performance Bushings: Improved steering response and feedback
Alignment Adjustments: Optimized camber and toe settings

WARNING! Suspension modifications affect vehicle dynamics; professional installation recommended.

Exterior Modifications

Aesthetic and aerodynamic enhancements for visual appeal and performance.

Front Lip Spoiler: Improved front-end downforce
Rear Wing/Spoiler: Enhanced high-speed stability
Carbon Fiber Components: Hood, trunk, mirror covers for weight reduction
Aftermarket Wheels: Lightweight design for reduced unsprung weight
Window Tint: UV protection and privacy
Body Kit: Aggressive styling with improved aerodynamics

CAUTION! Ensure modifications comply with local regulations and don't compromise safety.

Interior Enhancements

Performance Seats: Recaro, Sparco, or Bride racing seats with harness compatibility
Steering Wheel: Aftermarket wheel with improved grip and quick-release mechanism
Shift Knob: Weighted options for improved shift feel
Gauges: Oil pressure, water temperature, boost pressure monitoring
Audio System: Premium sound upgrades with subwoofer and amplifier
Pedal Set: Aluminum pedals for improved foot grip
Roll Cage: For track use and increased chassis stiffness
Sound Deadening: Reduced road noise for comfort

Exhaust Systems

Aftermarket exhaust options for performance and sound enhancement.

Cat-Back Systems: Improved flow with minimal restriction, deeper exhaust note

Axle-Back Systems: Sound improvement with easier installation

Headers: Improved exhaust scavenging, significant power gains

High-Flow Cats: Legal performance improvement with reduced emissions impact

Resonator Delete: More aggressive sound, potential drone considerations

ECU Tuning

Engine control unit modifications for optimized performance.

Flash Tuning: Reflash stock ECU with optimized maps
Standalone ECU: Complete engine management replacement
Piggyback Systems: Intercept and modify factory signals
Custom Dyno Tuning: Professional optimization for specific modifications
Launch Control: Optimized starts for improved acceleration

Tip: Always use reputable tuners with Acura/Honda experience.

Brake Upgrades

Enhanced stopping power for improved safety and track performance.

Big Brake Kits: Larger rotors and multi-piston calipers
Performance Pads: Improved bite and heat resistance
Slotted/Dimpled Rotors: Better heat dissipation and pad cleaning
Stainless Steel Brake Lines: Improved pedal feel and consistency
High-Temp Brake Fluid: Reduced brake fade under hard use
Brake Cooling Ducts: Improved cooling for track applications

WARNING! Brake modifications affect stopping distance; professional installation required.

Wheel & Tire Packages

Optimize grip and handling with proper wheel and tire combinations.

Wheel Sizes: 18x8.5 to 19x9.5 with proper offsets

Tire Options: Summer performance, all-season, or track-specific compounds

Spacers: Proper fitment for aggressive wheel setups

TPMS: Ensure compatibility with factory tire pressure monitoring

Alignment: Performance alignment settings for modified suspension

Maintenance Considerations

Increased maintenance requirements for modified vehicles.

CAUTION! Performance modifications may void factory warranty and increase wear on components.

Cost Estimates

Budget considerations for common modification packages.

Modification Package	Estimated Cost	Performance Gain
Stage 1 (Intake/Exhaust/Tune)	$1,500-$2,500	+40-60 HP
Stage 2 (Suspension/Brakes)	$3,000-$5,000	Improved handling
Stage 3 (Forced Induction)	$6,000-$12,000	+100-200 HP
Full Build (Complete Mods)	$15,000-$25,000+	Comprehensive upgrade
Cosmetic Only	$2,000-$8,000	Visual enhancement

Reset: Return to stock if needed for resale or warranty purposes.

Service: Consult with Acura specialists for professional installation and tuning.