Just bought a new to me 2018 CM S. I'd like to add mods to give it some more power, but I don't want it to sound like explosive diarrhea when I drive down the street.

I see the JCW tuning package is $3,000+ dealer installed, and I was thinking for $3,000 I could get much better parts. What are some great recommendations for:

Intercooler: I've read great things about Wagner intercoolers. Is this a good brand or are there other "better bang for your buck"?
Exhaust: Is the Dinan axelback exhaust a good choice? https://www.dinancars.com/blog/post/...haust_systems/
CAI: What intake is highly recommended? I've seen Dinan, K&N and a few others.

After getting the hardware parts, I was thinking of getting the JB4 tune to top it off. I know a proper MCU flash is the way to go, but I don't know anyone who can do a good tune in the Northern Virginia area. Also, the JB4 can be easily removed if need be.

 

An NM engineering power module or the Dinan will give you the MOST bang for your buck easily without having to remove your ECU or take it in for a tune. Intercooler, exhaust and CAI are minimal HP upgrades.

 

How does the NM engineering power module compare to Dinan Elite or JB4? I like the Dinan because people have described the power delivery as smooth and feels "stock". Also, I've read that upgrading the other components will "amplify" the performance gains of the piggyback.

I'm pretty new to tuning and mods and have a lot to learn.

 

For $3000... I would get an intercooler, and a tune from @Lou@Prototype-R . Spend the rest on beer or whiskey...

 

I have also heard the dinan is one of the best. It’s smoother and more natural power. It’s 899.00. It’s how much you want to spend. For 3000, sell the S and invest it in a 2020-22 JCW, 189 HP vs 301. It is a MASSIVE increase in HP and torque.

 

Can anyone recommend a good tuner or independent mechanic in Los Angeles, CA?

 

Agreed on the intake and intercooler being less relevant additions.‘I have a Dinan intake and it’s a little turbo flutter when in sport mode otherwise useless. Unless you’re going to do a significant tune and live somewhere super hot I’m not sure the intercooler will be worth the investment.

The exhaust, while minimal gains, adds audible gains. I like the pro exhaust because it’s civilized when I want to to be and raucous when I feel like it. It’s very expensive for what it is. I don’t think the Dinan works with all4, and NM I hear good things of (there is one for sale in the marketplace), but sound is very subjective and you should hear clips first. Remus and supersprint are great options but pricey. You get what you pay for.

As for a tune, you should go to a pro. I have a tuning kit, it’s something but not 120 Hp of something. Lots of people have boxes but I’m allergic to check engine lights which is why I prefer oem where possible.

 

My only recommendation is to talk with the tuner personally, and make sure they understand the current laws in California. You can fail smog if your ECU is detected to be recalibrated. That law makes the plug-in boxes more desirable.

 

Congrats on your new acquisition.

The JCW package is really expensive and for-sure there are better options for the gains.

Bolts ons offer minor gains but are not really necessary if you just going to get a JB4 or Dinan box or even a Stage 1 tune from a tuner.

This is perfect for that "Sunday Drive" or the occasional empty motorway and your foot gets a little heavy. If this is all you need, then stop reading here.




If you are looking to unlock the little beast within, then continue reading.

If you want a bit more power, then a Stage 2 is for you. This is where your car will benefit from the Bolt Ons (Intercooler, Catless or Sport Cat DP, CAI and Better Spark Plugs) to start. As for the exhaust the less restrictions the better. Keep your OEM Muffler and OEM resonator but remove the 2nd Cat. Replace the DP with a sport Cat and your good, go Catless and your inviting a bit of drone into your cabin. This will give you the throaty sound with Burbles and Pops and not like your car has explosive diarrhea. Just a bit of warning; when customizing or replacing your exhaust you will gain a bit of drone, but do it right and the drone is kept to a minimum and the reward is a sweet sounding note. This configuration can and will exceed the 2018 JCW Performace.

With great power comes the need to stop, keep in mind when you increase your BHP and your Torque, you might want to consider upgrading your ability to stop (if you're a spirited driver). This can simply be steel braided brake lines and better brake pads. This isnt necessary if you're just doing the JB4 or the Dinan Box.




If you're insane like a few of us on here are then keep reading.

Stage 3 (or 4) and up will require some engine Forging (Pistons, Arms, Head gasket, etc), Chassis Stiffeners and more robust front & rear sway bars and end links (your current end links are plastic). You might want to bring down your center of gravity with a set of coilovers or a set of lowering springs and a stiffer (or adjustable) suspension.

 

If you or anyone is interested in the Dinan piggyback system, let me know. My Elite tuner is for sale.

 

I know @MarioKart is in California, just not sure where. You can't go wrong with him if you want an ECU tune.