PRL Motorsports Civic FK8 Downpipe Review - Features and Install

Understanding the PRL Downpipe for the Civic FK8

The PRL Motorsports downpipe is a popular performance upgrade part for the Honda Civic FK8. This 10th and 11th generation Honda Civic platform introduced in 2016 and 2022 respectively has proven to be very tuner friendly, encouraging a whole aftermarket industry for the FK8 enthusiast community.

What Does the PRL Downpipe Do?

The factory downpipe on the Honda Civic FK8 is rather restrictive to exhaust flow. The PRL aftermarket downpipe significantly reduces backpressure allowing the turbo to spool up faster. This allows the engine to make more horsepower and torque after pairing the downpipe with proper ECU tuning.

By removing the main catalyst converter and front oxygen sensor on the factory downpipe, the PRL pipe is less restricted. The Civic's 2.0L turbocharged engine can breathe better, reducing heat soak issues as well. This leads to a more responsive throttle input from the driver.

Benefits of the PRL Downpipe

Some key benefits Civic FK8 owners can expect when installing the PRL catted or catless downpipe include:

• Increased turbo spool rate
• Faster throttle response
• Higher peak horsepower and torque figures
• Improved top end power
• Reduced engine heat soak
• Better exhaust flow

With the right supporting ECU tuning, expect gains of 25-50WHP from baseline on a completely stock FK8 engine. Of course supporting mods like an intercooler, intake and exhaust system optimize power delivery further.

Is the PRL Downpipe CARB Legal?

PRL Motorsports offers two versions of their Civic FK8 downpipe - a high flow catted version which is 50-state CARB legal, and a catless downpipe for off-road use only. The latter requires an additional O2 sensor spacer which allows the post-cat oxygen sensor to still function properly.

For those wanting optimal performance gains without dealing with check engine lights and readiness issues, the catted downpipe is the wise option. Expect to still achieve nearly 90% of the total power gains despite having a high flow catalytic converter in place.

PRL Downpipe Installation

Installation of the Civic FK8 PRL downpipe isn't terribly difficult, particularly when compared to the tight engine bays of older Hondas. Still - this isn't exactly a beginner level install either. At minimum you'll need an assortment of metric sockets, proper jack and jack stands, some penetrating oil and patience getting to the notoriously stubborn factory downpipe bolts.

Step By Step Install Highlights

Here is a brief overview of the PRL downpipe installation process on a stock Civic FK8:

1. Lift front of car safely on jack stands
2. Loosen oxygen sensor on factory downpipe
3. Spray down OEM downpipe bolts with penetrating oil well ahead of time
4. Disconnect downpipe from turbo outlet
5. Fight with removing stubborn downpipe chassis mounting bolts
6. Remove factory downpipe assembly from car
7. Swap factory exhaust gaskets with ones included in the PRL downpipe kit
8. Install PRL downpipe using factory hardware, torque bolts to OEM spec
9. Reconnect oxygen sensor, make sure wiring isn't contacting hot exhaust
10. Start car and check for exhaust leaks or rattles, re-tighten clamps as needed

An experienced technician can likely complete the job in 2 hours or less. Having an extra set of hands can make the process much smoother as well.

Conclusion

The PRL Motorsports Civic FK8 downpipe unlocks significant performance potential from the turbo-4 engine. Low end torque and top end horsepower see excellent gains, especially when paired with the proper engine tuning.

For the more competition minded #honda #civicx #fk8 owner seeking maximum power output from their engine, this affordable upgrade should be at the top of your mod list.

FAQs

Does the PRL downpipe require a tune?

Yes, to take full advantage of the increase in airflow, an ECU tune optimized for the downpipe and supporting mods is highly recommended. Expect to see peak gains of 25-50 wheel HP with tune.

Is there a difference between catted and catless downpipes?

PRL offers both a high-flow catted and catless downpipe. The catted option keeps the car 50-state smog legal, while the catless pipe requires an O2 sensor spacer but makes a bit more peak power.

What kind of install tools do I need?

Be prepared with basic hand tools - sockets, wrenches, pry bar, jack and jack stands at minimum. The job can be done in 2 hours or less by someone experienced working on cars.

Will a downpipe void my car's factory warranty?

As with any modification, installing an aftermarket downpipe can potentially void your powertrain warranty - especially if Honda can prove the part led to a failure down the line. Check your warranty fine print.