Roadtripping My 2009 Honda Civic Si to LA for Fender Shaving and JDM Parts

Road Trip to Los Angeles

• 🚗 Embarking on a road trip from Arizona to California in a 2009 Honda Civic Si, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and reliability for long journeys.
• ⛽ The Civic Si offers excellent gas mileage, capable of reaching Los Angeles from Phoenix on a single tank.
• 🎶 A notable con is the drone from the DC Sports exhaust at highway speeds, prompting consideration for a quieter setup.

Fender Modification and Fitment

• 🛠️ Addressing significant rear fender rubbing issues after lowering the Civic Si and installing a new wheel setup.
• 🔪 Seeking out a specialist in Orange County to perform a fender shave to resolve the rubbing problem.
• 💨 Testing the modified fenders with three people in the car on Angeles Crest Highway, noting minimal rubbing, primarily in the front.

Angeles Crest Highway Driving Experience

• ⛰️ Experiencing the fun and capability of the Civic Si on Angeles Crest Highway, a renowned driving road.
• 💨 The car is praised for its lightweight feel, responsive handling, and enjoyable performance, exceeding expectations for a practical sedan.
• 💥 Witnessing a Porsche Boxster crash on Angeles Crest Highway due to oversteering and a subsequent snap, highlighting the importance of driving within limits.

JDM Parts Acquisition and Car Meet

• 🇯🇵 Attending a JDM meet in LA and successfully acquiring authentic Type R headlights for the Civic Si build.
• 💡 The headlights feature black housing and will require wiring modifications to be installed.
• 🚗 Observing a vibrant car scene on Angeles Crest Highway and at a car meet, featuring various enthusiast vehicles like STIs, GR Corollas, and Porsches.

AMG Encounters and Sound Checks

• 💨 Experiencing encounters with Mercedes-AMG vehicles, including a C63 and E63, noting their impressive acceleration and loudness.
• 🔊 Testing the exhaust note of the Civic Si in tunnels, appreciating its sound, especially when driven hard.
• 🏁 A brief, informal drag race scenario with an AMG highlights the power difference and the need for further modifications to the Civic Si for more performance.