Top 10 Mods For Your Acura RSX (Under $500)

As an RSX owner for the past three years, I've tried a multitude of products to enhance my driving experience. While my car is great, newer models boast cool features that are often just "nice to have." After scouring countless lists, I found that many recommended the same old products or were just too expensive to justify giving them a try on a whim.

But fear not, as I've compiled a list of the absolute best small upgrades that have made a significant impact on my RSX. Each recommendation costs approximately $500 or less and is applicable even for base model automatic RSX's.

Note: Buying from my Amazon links supports this site a lot, at no extra cost to you. Thank you : )

Note: I haven't come up with a recommendation yet for coilovers or struts / springs. I'm uneasy in the under $1,000 price point for those unless you really just want the car lower at the cost of handling and comfort. I'll update if I find a good option.

1. Aftermarket Head Unit (Radio)

My Atoto Head Unit - Showcasing Hondata's App

I design high-end amplifiers and speaker systems in my spare time, which makes me well-qualified to talk about audio upgrades in the RSX. Whether you have a base model or a Type-S, upgrading from the factory radio or an old/low-quality aftermarket one to a newer one with higher quality components can make a significant difference. The speakers in the RSX are pretty good for their time, so I recommend replacing the radio first and seeing how you like the sound before spending any more on it.

A nicer aftermarket radio will produce more power and offer more input options like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB, 3.5mm (AUX), Bluetooth, and more. It may even come with features like a backup camera, GPS, and apps. Personally, I really like my Atoto S8 Ultra head unit because it has all the features I mentioned above, plus the added benefit of allowing me to download Android apps. This means I can connect Hondata's app to my ECU and look at real-time data while driving and tuning the car, making it an indispensable resource. I use it almost every time I go out to keep an eye on things and ensure everything is running smoothly. Admittedly, I also enjoy playing emulated Gameboy Advance and PS1 games on it with a wireless controller when waiting in long drive-through lines. The head unit even allows me to watch movies and browse the internet, thanks to its antenna for GPS, 4G, and Wi-Fi. It also includes a cable for quick-charging your phone, as well as both wireless and wired options for Apple CarPlay. Most importantly, the audio sounds amazing, and it's a significant improvement over the stock radio.

Everything you need to complete the upgrade is right here:

Note: Make sure you keep the stock metal radio brace because you'll need to cut it up a bit to make everything mount up. I'll be putting up an article about the process soon. It's not super hard.

2. Racing Seat

NRG Prisma Ultra Racing Seat

Note: Removing the stock seat means you're removing the airbag within the side of the seat. Driving on the street with a racing seat is less safe as a result, so this is mainly a suggestion for people who drive on the track with other safety devices implemented.

I was surprised at how much easier it became to drive better once I installed a racing seat in my RSX. While the stock RSX seats are pretty good, at this age, most drivers' seats are ripped in the middle seam, or the side bolsters are cracked and mangled. They don't hold you in that well, and on top of that, they're quite heavy (50 pounds each).

By switching to proper racing seats, you can free up some performance by shedding the weight of the heavy stock seats. Plus, you won't have to hold on for dear life to the steering wheel when going around turns at speed.

Personally, I love my NRG Prisma Ultra seat in blue, with a stunning holographic sparkle finish on the back. The seat pads come out easily with velcro for cleaning, and there are two pockets on the front of the seat where you can store your phone or wallet. This seat also allows you to run a 4, 5, or 6-point racing harness if you decide to get even more planted while driving. As if that weren't enough, it's only 24 pounds, cutting the weight in half from the stock seat.

Here's links for everything you need to pick up:

$360 - NRG Prisma Ultra Racing Seat
$185 - Planted Driver's Seat Bracket
$35 - Seat Sliders
$15 - Mounting Hardware
$? - Seatbelt Mounting Hardware

Note: If you plan on reusing the stock seatbelt, you'll need a bolt and nut of the proper size to hold it to the bracket; the stock seatbelt bolt will not work. You can drive to your nearest auto parts store and find a bolt that measures the correct size.

Note: If you want to swap out both seats, get 2 of the seats, 2 of the sliders, 2 of the hardware, and buy the passenger seat-specific bracket.

3. LED Projector Headlights

My Car With The Spec-D Tuning Headlights

If you've read my article on RSX headlights and bulbs, you know just about everything there is to know on the topic. Investing in better quality headlights for your RSX is not only a matter of improving visibility and safety, but also enhancing the overall look of your vehicle. The stock halogen bulbs with reflectors simply do not measure up to the clear, bright light emitted by newer cars with LED headlights and projector housings. Upgrading your headlights can help you see further and more clearly, while also ensuring that other drivers can see you.

If you're looking for a quality option, the Spec-D Tuning projector headlight housings are a great choice. In addition, their customer support team is excellent and always available to answer any questions you may have. As for bulbs, the Hikari UltraFocus H1 LED bulbs are a reliable option for low beams. They provide a bright, clear light without blinding other drivers, making them an ideal choice for safer night driving. Overall, upgrading your headlights is a smart investment for the longevity and safety of your RSX.

$167 - 2002-2004 RSX Projector Headlights (LED Halos)
$300 - 2005-2006 RSX Projector Headlights (LED Halos)
$55 - Hikari UltraFocus H1 LED Bulbs

4. Short Shifter (Manual Only)

Hybrid Racing Short Shifter - With Mishimoto Carbon Shift Knob

An aftermarket short shifter is a great investment for improving shift time and feel in your RSX. It reduces shift length and increases accuracy, and you can adjust certain components to customize the shifter's positioning to your preference. For an even tighter and more responsive driving experience, I highly recommend the Hybrid Racing Short Shifter. It's the one I personally use and I could never go back to the stock shifter. This upgrade will make your RSX feel much more responsive and reduce the chance of mis-shifts, which can be a concern with the RSX's manual transmissions, especially the 6-speed in the Type-S.

As for shift knobs, it's important to find one that feels comfortable and suits your driving style. I personally prefer the Mishimoto carbon fiber shift knob, but there are plenty of options available to suit your taste. It's worth noting that the Hybrid Racing short shifter and the Mishimoto shift knob are still within our budget, so you won't have to break the bank to improve your shifting experience.

5. Exhaust

My HKS Hi Power Catback - Don't Mind The Dust

Many people opt for an exhaust as one of their first modifications, and it's a reasonable choice. In my experience, the RSX sounds pretty good with an unrestricted exhaust system, provided that the design is of good quality. There are various options available depending on the desired level of noise. Keep in mind that simply changing the exhaust will not yield more horsepower than the stock system. For that, you'll need K-Pro or another aftermarket ECU. The HKS Hi-Power catback is the current system I'm using, featuring a 2.5" diameter pipe that connects to the cat. It maintains an audible exhaust note without being obnoxious at idle, and it produces a throaty roar when VTEC kicks in. This exhaust system includes gaskets, fasteners, and a silencer that can be inserted to reduce the sound level.

If you have K-Pro and are looking for a better flowing exhaust, opt for a diameter greater than 2.5". The K series engines are highly sensitive to backpressure, particularly when generating more horsepower, so a larger diameter exhaust helps to mitigate that. If you're planning to go turbo, it's recommended to have a custom straight-pipe exhaust made with a resonator and high flow cat welded to it, although this topic is beyond the scope of this article.

Here's the exhausts that I recommend:

$516 - HKS Hi Power Catback (Type-S Only) 2.36" Diameter
$400 - Yonaka Catback (Base Model Only) 2.50" Diameter
$611 - Skunk2 MegaPower RR (Type-S Only) 2.75" Diameter

6. Type-R Replica Spoiler

My RSX Type-R Spoiler

If your RSX didn't come with an Integra Type-R replica spoiler, it's a popular and affordable mod that you can add to your car. While it does require drilling small holes in your trunk, it's not a difficult installation process. I recommend going for a one-piece spoiler made of rigid material like ABS plastic, as opposed to a three-piece replica. This will help reduce turbulence at the rear of your car, which can have an aerodynamic effect. Additionally, it looks great and could possibly even reduce drag. Keep in mind that you'll need to paint it yourself or get it paint-matched to your car, but priming and spray painting it is a simple and cost-effective option.

Here's a one-piece spoiler you can buy, and the paint to match it to your car.

$103 - Replica Type-R Spoiler
$35 - Color Matched Spray Paint (Arctic Blue Pearl Example)

7. Hood Dampers

NRG Hood Struts In My RSX

When working on your RSX, it's not uncommon to find yourself under the hood often. However, using the hood prop can become cumbersome and even get in the way of certain upgrades, such as installing an RBC intake manifold. That's where hood dampers come in. Not only do they make working under the hood easier, but they also give your RSX a sleek, aftermarket look.

Hood dampers function similarly to the struts on your car's trunk, lifting the hood effortlessly and keeping it in place without the need for the prop rod. This makes it easier to work on your engine and improves access to hard-to-reach areas.

$113 - NRG Hood Dampers

8. Steering Wheel

Momo Mod 30 In My Miata (Custom Steering Wheel For The RSX In Progress)

Note: If you drive your RSX on the street, you should probably stick with the stock steering wheel to retain the air bag. If you have a racing seat, harness, helmet, and HANS device, then this becomes a good option.

For those who are serious about track driving, installing an aftermarket steering wheel could be a great addition to your RSX. Besides decreasing weight, refreshing the appearance of your steering wheel, and providing a more comfortable driving position, it also enhances anti-theft protection and improves grip. The interior of your car will have a brand new look and feel. With a quick-release mechanism, you can easily remove the wheel and take it with you. This feature can also make it easier to get in the car, particularly if you have longer legs. While I don't have an aftermarket steering wheel in my RSX, I do have one in my Miata, and I must say, I love it.

Here's what I use personally:

9. RBC / Skunk2 Intake Manifold

Polished RBC Intake Manifold

Adding an RBC or Skunk2 intake manifold to your RSX is another excellent mod that can help you achieve significant gains. However, it's important to note that, like the exhaust, you'll need K-Pro installed to reap any benefits. There are two options for purchasing the intake manifold: a genuine RBC intake manifold that you'll need to cut or directly buying one from Skunk2 without modifications. The advantage of this mod is that it can offer you between 15-20 horsepower at the wheels, thanks to its ability to enhance airflow and balance it evenly across all four cylinders. It's worth noting that the Skunk2 manifold's opening is 70mm, but it can be expanded to 76mm, and you can use the OEM Acura RSX Type-S throttle body with it. However, you may need to install a different air intake to make it work effectively. Overall, adding an RBC or Skunk2 intake manifold to your RSX is an excellent way to achieve greater horsepower gains and enhance your vehicle's performance.

$476 - Skunk2 Racing Pro Intake Manifold
$20 - Intake Bolts (Replaces studs, makes life sooo much easier)

10. Aftermarket Subwoofer

Skar Subwoofer Enclosure

If you're an audiophile or just enjoy good music while driving, upgrading your Acura RSX's audio system is definitely worth considering. While the Type-S model comes equipped with a Bose 5" subwoofer in the spare tire, the base model does not have a subwoofer. However, you can add a subwoofer to your RSX without upgrading your radio, although an aftermarket head unit will make the process much easier.

Adding a subwoofer can greatly enhance the bass in your music, and the Skar Audio subwoofer kit is a popular option that includes everything you need to install a subwoofer in your car. Available in various sizes and with or without wiring and amplifier kits, this kit is a cost-effective way to add a subwoofer to your RSX.

Not only will this upgrade improve the overall sound quality of your music, but it can also make your driving experience more enjoyable, especially on longer trips. So, if you're someone who loves music and spends a lot of time in your car, adding a subwoofer to your RSX is definitely a mod to consider.

$322 - Skar Audio 12" Subwoofer + Amplifier + Install Kit

Bonus: Ceramic Coat

Water Droplets On The Surface Of A Ceramic Coat

This isn't really a mod by most people's standards, but it does make it easier to clean your car and keep the paint protected and looking good. Ceramic coats work by forming a protective layer, like wax, on your paint's surface. Ceramic is extremely hydrophobic, so water rushes to get off the paint as soon as it touches. It also smooths out the exposed surface of your car, making it harder for dirt to build up and stick. I use Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Spray Coating. I wash the car, dry it, clay bar it, use a iron and fallout remover, wash it off again, dry it, polish the paint, then I finally apply the ceramic coat panel-by-panel. This way, the ceramic coat easily forms a protective coat with no contaminants, which makes the ceramic coat last about a year. You'll still have to shoot the car off with some water, but the dirt won't be embeded into the paint and cause damage. To maintain the coat, I use Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Wash every once in a while, and treat spots with Hybrid Solutions Ceramic Detailer. Project Farm even did a video on it where it performed very well.

Disclaimer:

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