Best Mods to Start a '92-00 Honda Civic Build

Best Mods to Start a '92-00 Honda Civic Build

Jul 11, 2025Colin Griffith

The ‘92-00 Honda Civic is a Dream Build Platform and Here’s Why

Newer isn’t always better when it comes to building your dream machine. There’s plenty of potential to be found in older models, and the ‘92-00 Honda Civic is the perfect example of that. One of the biggest examples of the phrase, “oldy but goody”, the EG or EK chassis is a blank canvas for builders. The aftermarket support feels almost limitless and the popularity among enthusiasts can almost feel like a cult following, so if you need help dialing in your first mods, there will be plenty of resources at your disposal. 

If you can’t decide where to begin, don’t sweat it. One of the easiest ways to kick off a Civic build is with some classic, tried-and-true bolt-ons. Think headers, intakes, even exhaust upgrades. All are classic mods aimed at improving your ride’s performance potential, giving your throttle response, airflow, and even the sound of your engine a significant boost. Join us as we break down some of the best upgrades and brands to trust to build your dream ‘92-00 Civic build.

 


MAPerformance Daily Deals


 

Building Smart, But Simple

We all know that full engine swaps or forced inductions are upgrades that make your Civic infinitely more fun to drive, but it doesn’t have to go quite that far if you don’t want it to. Some of the best builds to drive have more humble beginnings, starting with simple upgrades based on improving the sound, flow, and durability from your stock components. We purposely targeted areas that improve your performance on their own, while also being able to set the stage for more complicated upgrades down the road. So without further ado, let’s dive right in to the best places to start on your EG or EK Civic build. 

Cold Air and Short Ram Intakes

Want to kick off your Civic build with an upgrade that’s both effective and affordable? If you answered yes, then go with a performance intake. You can choose between a cold air intake, designed to pull cooler, denser air from outside the engine bay, or a short ram intake that combines throttle response and simplicity in design. Both options give you a serious boost over your stock components. Upgrading your intake will give your Civic a more responsive pedal feel, sharper acceleration, as well as a subtle growl under the hood that’s both noticeable and makes driving your Civic more fun.

If you’re looking for reliable brands to trust in your build, the conversation starts with Injen. Injen offers both cold air and short ram intake options with perfectly tuned piping and sleek finishes that give this performance mod a little bit of visual appeal when you pop the hood. K&N is also a great choice to consider, their washable filters and solid airflow improvements are perfect for enthusiasts looking to improve their daily driver without going overboard. No matter what your choice is, upgrading your intake is an affordable, yet effective way to make your ‘92-00 Civic that much more fun to drive.

 

 


‘92-00 Civic Engine Swaps


 

Headers

One of the easiest ways to unlock easy power is by dropping in a performance header. Stock exhaust manifolds leave so much power on the table, while an aftermarket option better opens up the top end, sharpening your throttle response and improving how your engine breathes. And once your VTEC kicks in, then it’s another conversation entirely. A custom header is one of those mods that does more than just make your engine sound better, you’ll feel the difference every time you hit the throttle. 

A long-time favorite of enthusiasts, DC Sports is an easy brand choice because their bolt-on headers fit perfectly, sound incredible, and give you the kind of noticeable gains drivers crave without blowing your entire paycheck. And if you’re seeking an option that’s both incredibly durable and shows off track-inspired styling, then try BWR. Their stainless steel construction and high-flow designs won’t kill your budget but give you that top-of-the-line feeling.



Exhaust Systems

Now that we’ve crossed intake upgrades off the to-do list, it’s time to focus on the opposite by finding an upgrade that lets your Civic exhale better. Finding a good exhaust setup for your Civic is by far one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make. An upgraded exhaust system will give your ride better tone, more flow, as well as a clean look from the back. Most exhaust upgrades are targeted at reducing your ride’s backpressure, improving the mid-range power, and upgrading the way your ride sounds, all without going totally overboard.

If you’re seeking that powerful, trademark Honda tone, then the brand to find it for your exhaust is Skunk2. If your idea of an exhaust setup that’s a bit more budget friendly but still quality craftsmanship, then Megan Racing can give you the ideal levels of performance while not carrying the same price tag. A new exhaust system is exactly the kind of upgrade that can bring your Civic build to life without too complicated of an installation process. They set the tone (no pun intended) for the rest of your build.

 

 


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Upgrade with Purpose

Regardless of whether this is your first Civic build or your tenth, starting off with the right bolt-ons makes all the difference. Choosing the right mods for your intake, exhaust, and headers gives your ride the sound, flow, and response you’ve wanted, while also carefully laying the foundation for anything you decide to throw at your Civic next. And remember, when you’re ready to kick off your Civic build, there’s no better place to start than with MAPerformance. We have the largest selection of performance upgrades you’ll need to bring your ride to life. And our fast shipping, quick delivery, and world-class customer service team keeps every interaction feeling easy, and helpful. Let’s get started on your ‘92-00 Civic build, we can’t wait to see it in action! 

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