Alligator

I'm new to TL's, and I've heard that VTEC can be limiting on very fast starts. Someone also mentioned the rush when getting VTEC to kick in. How does one do this? Accelerate hard? Sorry if this is obvious, but I've never owned a car like this - and mine is due in this week.

2K2SilverTL-S

Ummmmm....

Put the car in D, press on the gas, and if you pass 4800 RPMs, VTEC will engage in that gear. Same for 2nd, 3rd, 4th gear ect....

giant_tcr

In the '04TL, VTEC automatically turns on when engine RPM is above 4700. I don't know about it "hindering" fast starts, but VTEC engines aren't known for low end torque, which may be where that claim comes from.

Howstuffworks.com (awesome site btw) gives a good explanation of VTEC: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/question229.htm

Follow the links at the bottom for more in-depth mechanical explanation of what VTEC is.

F23A4

That "lag" seems to occur with more noticeability in DOHC VTEC application than SOHC VTEC (i.e.: TL) applications.

rets

Also, you could click the Vtec Tech-Demo over this link... http://www.acura.com/models/model_sp....asp?module=tl

LessisBestmakingendsmeet

OMG, its not like its a damn turbo or anything? Get it to "kick-in". lmao Now I see why my sons make fun of me.

BstonBruin

The way that i've felt vtec kick in the most is:

If you have the 5AT put it into sport shift go to gear 5 doing about 50 and then shift down all the way to second gear while staying on the gas, then go up to third and fourth. Its unbelievable

Ken1997TL

VTEC is pretty seamless on most SOHC engines.

DOHC engines like the Preludes H22 or the S2000 have a very pronounced crossover.

Jerky

WOW you go from 5th to 2nd in your auto?

Something tells me that's not good for the tranny...

can anyone let me know if I'm correct

rets

It's similar to the downshift by using "L" mode. Our ECU will manage and monitor our tranny and engine. None of them would blow out.

Jerky

what if you were going on freeway 50 miles per hour and put your automatic into REVERSE?

what would happen? will it also protect it?

BstonBruin

yeah, even thought the ecu will manage, and theres no way of blowing out the tranny or engine, i dont do it often

BstonBruin

it doesnt let you put it in reverse

discussion on a similar topic:
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthr...ight=downshift

92NSX

So do Integra GS-R's and NSX's

cvajs

a "dynamic-feedback" vtec system would be ultimate, but then again, more cash in my pocket also seems like a good "option".

LessisBestmakingendsmeet

http://www.geocities.com/gkurka2001/...m#Nissan%20VVL

Seems VVTi is the best.

spacejamz

just make sure you break the car in first before you try and feel the rush...(i.e., don't gun it driving off the dealer's lot after you pick it up)...

would hate to see a post from you later on saying 'I think my transmission or something is going out...'

RedRSXGrrl

Put the pedal to the metal and smell the VTEC.

But remember to do that AFTER 600 miles ...

04AcuraTL

it's ok to go into second as long as ur under 60..my second can push up to 65 70

Teh Jatt

Ken1997TL

Its not.

VTEC has variable valve LIFT AND timing.

VVTi has variable valve timing only.

indoMFP

jatt has been waiting to use that pic... congrats...

Ken1997TL

cvajs

nah, that's all a myth. yes, you should not redline the motor, but with only 270hp at the crank i dont think it can do much damage if you gun a fresh car. for those worried about this, just follow the manual for break-in.

at about 220 miles i raced a 350z. i was out front with z directly behind me. with my tl still pulling i could see the z inching up. the z would have passed me, but it turned off.

Ken1997TL

Actually its really good advice to NOT redline it and not brake too hard during the first 500 or 600 miles.

You want the various components to wear as evenly as possible for break-in.

Yes you CAN race it but dont be hard on the car.

F23A4

I disagree. VVTi = cam phasing OR the 'i' in the 'iVTEC' on DOHC applications.

VVTLi > VVTi but not any better than the iVTEC of a motor like the K20A2 (RSX Type S).