Honda Performance Tuning
0800 328 886
Honda Civic
Honda Civic Type R
Honda CR-V
Honda HR-V
Honda Jazz
Honda Accord
Honda Odyssey
Honda Pilot
Honda Ridgeline
Honda NSX
L15B7 1.5T VTEC turbo petrol
K20C 2.0T VTEC turbo petrol (Type R)
K24 2.4L naturally aspirated VTEC
J35 3.5L V6 petrol
Honda e:HEV hybrid systems
If you have a specific question regarding your Honda that is not answered here, please give us a call or submit the enquiry form because we can help - we will assist you personally.
Yes - both the L15B7 1.5T and K20C 2.0T VTEC Turbo are robust engines with strong internals and clear factory headroom. A Stage 1 tune that operates within safe boost, timing and AFR limits has no meaningful impact on engine longevity when the car is properly serviced. The Type R K20C in particular is built with motorsport-influenced internals and handles increased output well. We always recommend fresh oil before tuning and using 98 RON for the best result on either platform.
Honda's CVTs are generally well-built, but they are calibrated cautiously from the factory with conservative torque limits. A Stage 1 tune at responsible power levels is typically fine for the CVT, though we recommend a transmission tune alongside the engine remap to update the torque delivery strategy and reduce heat build-up under increased load. For Type R owners with the 6-speed manual or the later DCT, the gearboxes are more than capable of handling Stage 1 and Stage 2 power levels without issue.
A standard Civic 1.5T (L15B7) typically gains 20–35kW and 60–90Nm on Stage 1, moving from around 127kW to 150–162kW - a meaningful 20–25% improvement that transforms everyday acceleration and overtaking confidence. The Civic Type R K20C gains 30–50kW on Stage 1, pushing from 228kW toward 258–278kW. CR-V owners with the same 1.5T engine see similar relative gains, with the improved torque particularly noticeable when merging and pulling hills.
For most NZ Honda owners, yes - particularly if you spend time on motorways, regional highways or routes with sustained hill climbs. The added torque from a Civic 1.5T tune makes a noticeable difference when merging onto the Southern Motorway or climbing Remutaka Hill, where the standard engine needs to work noticeably harder. Type R owners gain even more from tuning, as the chassis and brakes are already matched to higher output levels - the engine remap simply brings the powertrain into alignment with the rest of the car's capability.
Unlock more performance from your Honda with expert ECU tuning in Auckland. Get in touch and we'll tell you exactly what gains your Civic, CR-V or Type R can achieve.
Real Drivers, Real Results.
We're proud of the results we deliver, but don't just take our word for it. Read what our satisfied customers have to say about their experience with our professional mobile tuning service and the real-world performance gains they've enjoyed.
Auto Tune were exceptional. Their attention to detail and deep technical knowledge were evident throughout the tuning process. They managed to unlock the hidden potential of my vehicle, providing a noticeable boost in power and responsiveness. I highly recommend their services to any enthusiast.
2018 Subaru Forrester - Howick
I was thoroughly impressed with the friendly and efficient service at Auto Tune. They transformed my car’s performance while maintaining reliability, striking the perfect balance. The difference in the driving experience is night and day, and the entire team was a pleasure to deal with. I will definitely be a returning customer.
2020 Audi RS6 - Takapuna
I brought my diesel ute in looking for more pulling power, and the team at Auto Tuning absolutely delivered. The difference in low-end torque is massive; it now hauls heavy loads up hills without breaking a sweat. The biggest surprise has been the improvement in fuel economy during my daily commute. A proper, professional tune.
2021 Ford Ranger - Henderson
