The Honda DC5 Integra Type R is one of the greatest front wheel drive performance cars ever made. Powered by the legendary K20A engine and built exclusively for the Japanese domestic market, every example in the UK has been imported from Japan. Sharp steering and a lightweight chassis make it a genuinely special car that rewards every driver input. This guide covers the most effective modifications to unlock the full potential of the DC5 platform.
Quick Verdict
Start with Dixcel Z Type pads and Motul RBF700 brake fluid to handle heat before anything else. From there a TEIN Flex Z coilover opens the door to proper adjustability and transforms how the car drives. Approach breathing mods with a Fujitsubo RM-01A or Legalis R on the exhaust side paired with a Hybrid Racing intake kit. Then refine the chassis with Spoon Rigid Collars and uprated bushes to sharpen the handling.
1. Brake Upgrades
The factory setup includes 4-piston Brembo front calipers which provide a strong base but the stock pads are a weak point under sustained hard braking. Heat builds and fade sets in sooner than expected. Upgrading these components is the single most impactful first modification on a DC5.
- Dixcel Z Type Brake Pads. The best all-round compound for road and track. 0°C to 850°C operating range with consistent cold bite and strong fade resistance
- PBS ProRace Brake Pads. The popular choice for regular track sessions
- Dixcel RF328 or Motul RBF700 Brake Fluid. Raises the boiling point ceiling significantly over standard DOT 4
- Spoon Sports Monoblock Brake Calipers. Reduces unsprung mass and dramatically improves heat dissipation
2. Suspension Upgrades
The DC5 handles well from the factory but a quality coilover setup transforms body control and steering response. As these cars age original suspension components deteriorate which introduces vagueness the chassis was never designed to have. Quality aftermarket coilovers restore and improve on the precision the car is known for.
- TEIN Flex Z Coilovers. The Torque GT recommendation. Excellent balance of road comfort and track performance at a sensible price, and a proper entry point into adjustable suspension
- BC Racing BR Series Coilovers. Strong adjustability at a competitive price point. Popular in the Honda community
- KW V2 Coilovers. Independent compression and rebound adjustment for the ultimate DC5 setup
3. Lightweight Wheels
Reducing unsprung weight has a direct effect on handling by allowing the suspension to react faster and more accurately. 17 inch wheels remain the correct choice for the DC5. The chassis was designed around this size and tyre availability is excellent. Upgrading to flow-formed or forged wheels is one of the most satisfying modifications you can make.
- ENKEI RPF1. The Torque GT recommendation for most owners. MAT flow-formed construction with exceptional strength to weight ratio at an accessible price
- RAYS Wheels. Fully forged options for serious DC5 builds with the TE37 offering classic JDM style
- Spoon Sports SW388. The definitive OEM+ wheel. Designed specifically for Hondas
4. Intake Upgrades
The K20A responds well to improved airflow with better throttle response and a sharper induction sound approaching VTEC. Options range from a simple drop-in filter to full carbon intake systems.
- Spoon Sports Air Filter. The go-to recommendation for most DC5 owners. Drop-in upgrade that improves airflow while keeping the engine bay looking clean
- Hybrid Racing Cold Air Intake. The best option for peak power. Complex install but strong gains for K-series builds
- Gruppe M Carbon Ram Air Intake. The benchmark intake for premium and show builds
5. Exhaust Upgrades
An upgraded exhaust improves engine breathing and allows the K20A to produce the sound it deserves. The right system makes a noticeable difference to throttle response and high RPM character without compromising road usability.
- Fujitsubo RM-01A. Torque GT's pick for the DC5 and a solid all-rounder. Track noise limit friendly with no drone and meaningful weight saving over the factory system
- Fujitsubo Legalis R. The street focused choice for a deeper note without excessive volume
- Spoon Sports N1. The iconic OEM+ choice. Loud and characterful with the full K20A sound to match. Pair with the Spoon manifold and centre section for the ultimate setup
- Skunk2 Alpha Exhaust Manifold. Pairs with any cat-back for the strongest top-end gains
6. Short Shifter
The DC5 gearbox is one of the best Honda transmissions ever made. A short shifter reduces throw between gears and adds a more mechanical and precise feel to every change.
- Hybrid Racing Short Shifter Assembly. Improved shift engagement with reduced throw
- Hybrid Racing Shifter Cables. Freshens up gear shifts and eliminates play from worn stretched cables
Shop Hybrid Racing Short Shifter
7. Chassis Upgrades
Chassis upgrades eliminate the flex and vagueness that builds up as original components age. The improvement in steering feel and braking stability is immediate and they are a natural companion to any coilover upgrade.
- Spoon Sports Rigid Collar Kit. Fills gaps at subframe mounting points to eliminate chassis flex and sharpen steering feel directly
- Hardrace and SuperPro Bushes. Restore and improve durability and chassis response on ageing DC5s
8. Styling Upgrades
The DC5 suits a subtle OEM+ approach. Small details done well make a big difference to the overall feel of the build.
- Spoon Sports Mirror Glass. Clean exterior and interior enhancement in keeping with the OEM+ aesthetic
- Engine Bay Dress-up. Small details that sharpen engine bay presentation. Reservoir covers, oil filler caps and dipsticks colour-coordinated for maximum visual appeal
- Spoon Sports or Mugen Steering Wheels. Replaces the stock unit with a smaller diameter and better grip for a more connected feel behind the wheel. One of the most noticeable interior upgrades on any DC5
Torque GT Recommended DC5 Build Path
| Use Case | Core Upgrade | Supporting Product | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fast Road | Dixcel Z Type Pads and Motul RBF700 Fluid | Spoon Sports Air Filter | Best first steps for any DC5 |
| Fast Road and Track | TEIN Flex Z Coilovers | Fujitsubo RM-01A and ENKEI RPF1 | The Torque GT recommendation for most DC5 owners |
| OEM+ Performance | Spoon SW388 Wheels and N1 Muffler | Spoon Rigid Collars and Monoblock Calipers | The benchmark DC5 build |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DC5 Integra Type R good for track days?
The DC5 is one of the best track day cars available at the price. Its lightweight chassis and high-revving K20A suit circuit driving perfectly. Upgrade the pads and fluid before your first session and the car will reward you immediately.
What are the best first mods for a DC5 Integra Type R?
Brake pads and performance fluid are always the first upgrade. From there a Spoon Sports Air Filter is a simple and worthwhile addition. Coilovers and lightweight wheels follow naturally as the build develops.
Are performance parts worth it for a daily driven DC5?
Yes for most upgrades. The Dixcel Z Type pad, TEIN Flex Z and Spoon Air Filter all maintain excellent road manners while improving the driving experience. More track-specific options like the PBS ProRace pad are less suited to daily use but everything else on this list works well on the road.
Related DC5 Integra Type R Guides
- Best Engine Oil for the DC5 Integra Type R
- Spoon Sports Brake Caliper Fitment Guide
- Rigid Collars - The Affordable Upgrade for Every Driver
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