How to Boost the Horsepower on an Acura TL Type S
by Scott EilersThe TL is a midsized luxury/performance sedan produced and designed by Honda and released under the Acura brand. It was first introduced in 1996 and has remained in regular production. The Acura TL Type-S is the high-performance trim line of the TL. The Type-S was first introduced with the 2007 model of the TL and featured a 3.5L V6 engine, which is also used in the larger Acura RL. This engine produced 286 horsepower and 256 lb.-ft. of torque without modifications, which can be increased in power via aftermarket modifications.
Step 1
Replace the factory cold-air intake system with a performance aftermarket cold-air intake system. Cold-air intake systems for the Acura TL Type-S typically provide a power boost of about 8 to 15 horsepower, depending on brand and model. Cold-air intake systems are a popular aftermarket upgrade because they are fairly inexpensive, relatively easy to install without professional assistance, and they have very little potential to damage the vehicle.
Step 2
Replace the factory exhaust system with a performance aftermarket exhaust system. Performance aftermarket exhaust systems for the Acura TL Type-S provide a power boost of approximately 15 to 40 horsepower, depending on the make and model of the exhaust system. Performance aftermarket exhaust systems increase power by allowing air to exit the engine bay more quickly via wider exhaust pipes. This has the side-effect of increasing engine noise and CO2 emissions, so make sure you are comfortable with these changes before performing this modification.
Step 3
Install a nitrous oxide (N2O) injection system. Nitrous oxide injection systems force a burst of N2O into the fuel line at the press of a button, which provides a temporary boost in power. The power boost from an N2O injection varies widely from between roughly 40 to 100 horsepower, depending on the specific N2O injection system. N2O systems also have the potential to decrease the lifespan of your vehicle via increased wear and tear on many components, especially if installed or used incorrectly. They are typically recommended for drag racing purposes only.
References
Writer Bio
Scott Eilers began writing professionally in 2006. He has been published as a coauthor in "Measurement in Counseling and Development" and "The Journal of Counseling and Development." He holds a Master of Arts in clinical psychology from the University of Northern Iowa and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Science in clinical psychology from Argosy University.
