Hey...I'm not really knowledgeable of cars by any means, and I sure as hell don't know how to work on my own car (I would like to learn...but that's a different story). My question is: with around $1500, where should I start my horsepower build up, and approximately how much of an increase in power will i see with such suggested mods (preferably real #'s you've experienced, not advertised gains). What about power programmers like hypertech...yay or nay? In addition, I'm in southern cali, and would like to know if any of you have any recommendations of performance & dyno shops in the area.
Thanks

 

Best thing you can invest in first is a good scanner that can read real time sensor signals as well as DTC's. Your gona learn that it's gona need repair more and more often as time goes by. I hope you have another daily driver to rely on. Once you feel comfortable with that, then start modding. I would find out from a local inspection shop what is legal and what is not.

Just an example. In VA there are no mods allowed to suspension. That's not to say that they aren't done by others and overlooked by some inspection shops. But I like to know up front what is and isn't allowed so I know what it might take to get it to pass inspection. I don't rely on the fact that someone will always be available to "pass" a car that might not otherwise pass.

I know inspection in CA is a nightmare. Just be careful.