As title said, I installed the Alta CAI two months ago, definitely enjoy it since. Just when I found that I am less than happy about the stock sound and appearance of the stock muffler tip, I decided to get the Q300 as well. Boy, don't I LOVE this combo. Almost the best thing I've ever done to this car other than taking it to the track.

However, with a STi friend of mine that helped me with the exhaust installation, he asked a few questions that I do not have answers.

1. Do I need to tune my car after CAI and exhaust? He said his fellow STiers have issues after installing a cat back exhaust without tuning, their motors went bye-bye after 10k mi or so...

2. With my M7 hood scoop also installed, along with the CAI, when I drive my car under heavy raining condition, especially when I follow another car closely with water splashing on my hood, will I see problem with water coming in through my intake?

Kinda noobs questions...just to show I normally don't do stuff to my rides. I just feel my Mini can do that much better with these mods.

Thanks a lot everyone!!

 

don't sweat the CAI install. I have it as well. no you do not need to do anything else to the car. Although it would be an advantage to reflash the computer for more power, but not necessary.
And your friends cars motors went south for other reasons. not CAI
the dealers even install CAI's!

the amount of water that would actually end up in the egine compartment would become vapors by the heat alone!

your fine, sit back and enjoy the ride

 

As far as a tune...if you can find someone who can do it I would get it done. You can get more HP out of a good tune. Of course you do not have to do this and putting the CAI on the Mini, you should have no issues.

As for the rain...dont worry, its not going to make it into the CAI. Heck open your hood and look down...the entire bottom of the car is open to the road...you will be OK.

 

to bad you arent in AZ mines is having a sale on reflashing chips with a dyno run included for only $350.
not only do they do excellent work, but they are really honest, nice guys as well.

 

Oh well...a sale in NorCal would still probably mean $500...though I'm indeed tempted to mine chipped...squeeze more fun of the car.

 

Any issues with ECU tunes and dealer service?