TUNER CATEGORY

TUNER CATEGORY

CLICK HERE FOR TEXT VERSION OF TUNER CATEGORY RULES

These are the vehicle classing and preparation rules for the Tuner Category of SCCA National Time Trials Competition. The intent of Tuner Category is that these are absolutely streetable, and may even be daily-driven cars. We do not guarantee the competitiveness of every car, as it would be nearly impossible and certainly overly complicated. Once you find your car, make sure it fits in Tuner Category by scrolling down to see what modifications you're allowed to do.

Tuner Category Classing

The intent of Tuner Category classing is that the category is made up of cars that could be daily-driven, or have been a recent daily driver turned track car. Like any other category, we do not guarantee the competitiveness of every car because of the complication that would involve.

As with Sport Category, we have tried to base the "cars to have" for each class on the most popular cars participating in Track Events and regional autocross events, but this time we focused on cars that are 8–20 years old. These are the cars that might have found a comfortable motorsports niche, or have proven track-worthy well into their life cycle. As we did with Sport Category, there will be a "Balance of Popularity."

If you do not see your car listed, it has not been classed. If you would like to have your car evaluated for classing, use the CONTACT page to fill out a classing request form.

New car makes, types, and models will be classified by the Time Trials Board (TTB) as soon as sufficient information is available to do so. The TTB may reclassify a car at any time up to and including December of the calendar year following that of the initial classification, without the approval of the Board of Directors. “Initial classification” includes the addition of a new listing on an exclusion list.

Tuner Category Classing

Even more awesome cars we considered, and ultimately decided, "This is certainly a dream car, and Max Category is the place for dream cars, whether it's the car you dream to build, or the car you dream to buy." And as awesome as all of the cars on this list are, they are automatically placed in Max 1!

Acura
  NSX 2016+
 
BMW
  M3 GTS 2010
  M3 LTW 1995
  M4 GTS 2016
 
Chevrolet
Corvette Z06, ZR1 2015+
Corvette ZR1, 2006-2014

Corvette Z51, 2020+

Dodge
Viper GTS-R or ACR
Hellcat Redeye Widebody 2019
Challenger SRT Super Stock 2021+
Charger Hellcat Widebody
Ford
GT500 2020+
Honda
S2000 CR
Lamborghini
Gallardo All 2004-2013
Mercedes Benz
AMG GT GTS 2015-2023
McLaren
720 S
MP4-12C
Porsche
  911 GTS 2017-2019
  GT4 RS
  GT3 RS 2015+
  GT3 2006+
  911 Turbo, Turbo S 2013-2015

This is where we're going to put cars that might not quite meet the rules, but we think they can go in this category anyway.

1. Cars listed as eligible in and prepared to the SCCA Road Race National Touring 2, 3 and 4 Rules are permitted to compete in their respective Time Trials Tuner Class provided they run on Time Trials legal tires. Vehicles with this allowance are not permitted to interchange preparation rules otherwise.

2. Cars listed as eligible in and prepared to the SCCA Road Race National Spec Miata Rules are permitted to compete in Time Trials Tuner Class 5 (T5) provided they run on Time Trials legal tires. Vehicles with this allowance are not permitted to interchange preparation rules otherwise.

3. Cars listed as eligible in and prepared to the SCCA Solo ST Street Touring Rules are permitted to compete in their respective Time Trials Tuner Class. Vehicles with this allowance are not permitted to interchange preparation rules otherwise.

Note: SCCA Solo Street Prepared has been rejected for Tuner Category inclusion because a full-tilt Street Prepared car is an engine-swapped, intake-manifold customized Frankenstein creation which is awesome, but doesn't belong in Tuner Category.

Model Trim Years
Alfa Romeo
Guilia Quadrifoglio 2016-2022
Audi
R8 V10, standard All
RS5 Sportback 2019+
RS6 2021+
BMW
M2 All 2023+
M3 2020+
M4 2021+
M3 Competition (xDrive included) 2021+
M4 Competition (xDrive included) 2022+
M5 Competition  2023
M6 F06/F12/F13 2012-2018
Cadillac
ATS-V 2016-2019
CTS-V 2009-2015
CT4 V Blackwing 2022+
CT5 V Blackwing 2022+
Chevrolet
Camaro ZL1 All 2018-2023
Corvette Naturally Aspirated 2014-2019
Corvette non-Z06 2020-2022
Corvette Z06 2006-2013
Dodge
Viper 2003-2006
Ferrari
550 Maranello 1996-2001
Ford
Mustang Shelby GT500 2010-2015
Mustang Shelby GT350R All
Lotus
Emira Supercharged V6 2022+
Evora GT 2020-2021
Exige  S 2006-2008
Exige S240 2008-2011
Mercedes
C63/C63S Twin Turbo 2015-2021
Nissan
GT-R Base & Nismo 2009+
Porsche
718 Spyder (Non-RS) 2019-2023
911 Carrera Base 2020+
911 Carrera T 2017-2023
911 Carrera S Chronosport 2011-2019
911 Carrera GTS 2014-2021
911 GT3 1999-2005
Boxster Spyder 2016-2019
Cayman S, GTS 2017-2022
Cayman GT4 3.8L 2016-2019
Cayman GT4 4.0 L 2020-2022
Panamera Turbo 2016-2023
Tesla
S Non-Plaid 2012+

Model Trim Years
Acura
Integra Type S 2024
NSX 1990-2005
TSX Type S 2023+
Alfa Romeo
4C 2014-2020
Audi
RS3 2017-2020
RS5 2012-2015
R8 V8 4.2 2006-2015
S4 2016-2019
TT RS 2012-2021
BMW
135i 2008-2013
M235i 2014-2016
M240i 2016-2021
340i M Sport 2016-2018
i4 eDrive40 2021-2024
M440i xDrive 2021-2022
1M 2011-2012
M2 Base 2016-2021
M2 Competition 2019-2021
M3 2007-2019
M4 2015-2021
M3 Competition 2011-2012
M4 Competition 2017-2020
M6 2005-2010
X3 M Competition 2016-2020
Cadillac
CT4 V 2022+
CTS  VSPORT (TT V6) 2014-2019
Chevrolet
Camaro LT1 2020+
Camaro SS    2010+
Camaro SS 1LE 2017-2022
Camaro Z28 2014-2015
Corvette All-Not Otherwise Classed or Excluded 1984-2013
Corvette Non-Z06 2005-2013
Corvette Z06 2001-2004
Corvette  ZR1 1990-1995
Chrysler
Crossfire SRT6 2004-2008
Dodge
Challenger Scat Pack 2014+
Challenger SRT8 2008+
Charger Scat Pack, Widebody 2020-2023
Stealth R/T Turbo All
Viper 1991-2002
Ford
Mustang Dark Horse (All) 2024
Mustang  GT, GT Perf Pkg 2015-2023
Mustang Mach 1 2021-2023
Mustang GT350 2016-2020
Mustang  Boss 302 2012-2013
Genesis
G70 Design Edition 3.3T 2019-2022
Honda
Civic Type R 2023+
Hyundai
Ioniq 5 N 2025
Infinity
Q50 Red Sport 400  2016-2022
Jaguar
F-Type 400 Sport 2018
XKR 2010-2015
Lexus
GS-F 2016+
IS-F 2008-2014
RC-F (Non-Fuji Edition) 2015+
Lotus
Elise 2005-2011
Evora Non-Supercharged 2010-2014
Exige S 2006-2008
Maserati
Gran Turismo Base 2007-2019
Gran Turismo Sport 2012-2019
Gran Turismo MC Sportline 2009-2019
Mercedes
C63 AMG 507 (Non SC) 2008-2015
CL63 AMG (V8) 2007-2014
CLA45 AMG 2020-2023
GLA45 AMG 2015-2019
Nissan
Z Base + Nismo 2023+
Porsche
Boxster  S 2013-2016
Cayman Base 2.0 2017-2024
Cayman  S 2013-2016
Cayman R 2011-2012
Cayman GTS 2014-2016
911 Turbo 1997-2004
911 Carrera S  2006-2012
911 Carrera 4S 2006-2012
911 Carrera 2012-2015
911 Carrera S non-Power Kit 2012-2014
911 Carrera 4S non-Power Kit 2012-2014
Tesla
Model 3 Long range RWD 2017-2019
Model 3 SR+ 2019-2020
Model 3 Performance 2018-2022
Toyota
Supra Turbo 1993-1998
Supra GR (3.0) 2020+
Supra 2.0 2021+
VW
Golf R 2022+

Model Trim Years
Acura
Integra Type R 1997-2001
Integra Type S 2023+
RDX All 2019+
TLX 4cy Technology 2015-2020
Alfa Romeo
Giulia Ti 2016+
Audi
A3 2.0T All 2015-2018
S3 2013-2020
S3 Quattro Wagon 2006-2013
S4 2009-2016
S5 3.0T FSI 2008-2017
TT S 2009-2018
BMW
228i 2013+
230i All 2017+
330i  xDrive Sport Wagon 2017-2019
335D 2006-2011
335i All 2006-2015
430i xDrive 2014-2020
440i xDrive 2014-2020
535i RWD 2004-2010
540i 1996-2003
650i Base 2005-2010
M3 1986-1991
M3 2001-2006
M5 1998-2003
Z3 1996-2002
Z4  3.0i 2003-2008
Z4 M 2006-2008
Z4 35i M 2009-2016
Z4 35is M 2009-2016
Buick
Regal GS 2012-2017
Cadillac
ATS 3.6L V6 2013-2015
CTS V 2004-2007
Chevrolet
Camaro 4cyl Turbo 2016+
Camaro IROC Z 1988-1992
Camaro SS 1998-2002
Camaro V6 2010+
Camaro  Z28 (All) 1993-1997
Cobalt SS (FI) 2005-2010
Corvette Z07 1984-1991
Corvette Base 1968-1997
Corvette Non-Z06 1997-2004
SS 2014-2017
Chrysler
Crossfire SRT6 2004-2008
Dodge
Charger R/T 2001+
Neon SRT-4 All
Ford
Focus RS 2016-2018
Mustang Cobra 1994-1996
Mustang Cobra SVT 1996-1998
Mustang Ecoboost 2015-2023
Mustang GT 1964-1968
Mustang V6 2011-2015
Mustang V8 1978-2014
Taurus SHO 2010-2018
Honda
Civic  Type R 2016-2022
Hyundai
Elantra N 2022
Genesis 2.0T & 3.8 (incl. Track) All
Sonata SE Turbo 2011-2013
Veloster N 2019-2022
Veloster Turbo RSpec 2014-2017
Infiniti
G35 2002-2007
G37 2002-2015
Q50 3.0T 2016+
Kia
K5
GT
2021-2023
Stinger GT 2018-2023
Stinger
GT2
2018-2023
Lexus
GS300 V8 1997-2005
GS350
FSport 2016-2020
IS300 2014-2020
IS300 FSport 2014-2020
RC200T FSport 2015+
Lotus
Evora Base - NA 2010-2014
Mazda
MazdaSpeed6 All
RX-7 1992-1995
Mercedes
C450 AMG 4MATIC 2015-2016
C55 AMG 2004-2007
CLK55 AMG 2003-2006
SL550 All 2007-2013
SLK250 All 2011-2019
SLK55 AMG 2005-2011
Mini
Cooper S JCW All
Mitsubishi
Lancer Evolution All
Nissan
350/370 Z Naturally Aspirated All
300ZX Twin Turbo 1990-1996
Polestar
2 Dual Motor, Performance Pack 2020-2024
Pontiac
Firebird  Firehawk/Formula/TransAm 1993-2002
GTO 2004-2006
Solstice GXP 2007-2009
Porsche
Boxster Base 2005-2016
Boxster S 1999-2012
Cayman Base 2005-2016
Cayman S 2005-2012
Macan S 2014+
911 Carrera 2, 4 1999-2008
944 Turbo All
Saturn
Sky Redline All
Subaru
BRZ Base/Premium/tS 2022+
Legacy GT 2003-2009
WRX All All
Toyota
Camry TRD 2018+
Camry XLE/XSE V6 2018+
Corolla
GR 2023+
GR86   2022+
MR2 Turbo 1989-1995
Volkswagen
Golf R 2015-2021
Volvo
S60 R 2004-2007
V60 Polestar 2016

Model Trim Years
Acura
CL Type S 2000-2003
Integra 1986-2001
RSX All
TSX 2004-2014
Audi
A3 2006-2013
A4 1.8T 2001-2006
A4 2.0T 2004-2013
TT 1.8T Quattro 1998-2006
TT VR6 (All) 2003-2010
BMW
128i 2008-2013
3-series e36, 6cyl Non-LTW 1992-2000
3-series e46, non-M3 1999-2005
325i 2006-2013
328i 2007-2013
330i 2019-2024
528i 1995-2001
Z3 6cyl, Non-M All
Z4 2.5i  2003-2008
Cadillac
CTS V6 2004-2007
Chevrolet
Bolt  2017+
Camaro V6 1993-2002
Cobalt Naturally Aspirated 2005-2010
Cruz LT 2014+
Impala LT 6cyl 2014-2020
Volt 2016+
Chrysler
Conquest TSi 1987-1989
Crossfire Base 2004-2008
Dodge
Dart SXT (1.4T) All
Omni GLH & GLH-S 1984-1986
Fiat
500 Abarth 2008+
Ford
Crown Vic 1997-2007
Fiesta ST  All
Focus ST All
Focus ZX3 2004-2011
Fusion SE AWD 2.0T 2017-2020
Fusion Sport (3.5L) 2010-2012
Mustang SVO 1984-1986
Mustang V6 1999-2010
Taurus SHO 1989-1999
Thunderbird LX 1994-1997
Honda
Accord EX V6 2002-2007
Civic
Si
1995-2021
Civic  Sport Hatchback 2016-2021
S2000 Non-CR All
Hyundai
Elantra  Sport 2017-2020
Elantra GT Sport 2018-2020
Kona N 2022+
Veloster Turbo 2013-2017
Kia
Forte GT 2018-2023
Lexus
GS300 Non-V8  1997-2005
IS300 2000-2004
IS350 2006-2013
SC300 Base 1992-2000
Mazda
3 Touring & Sport 2013-2018
MazdaSpeed 3 All
MazdaSpeed Miata All
MazdaSpeed Protegé All
Miata/MX-5 2006+
RX-7 Turbo II All
RX-8 All
Mercedes
E350 Sport 2010-2016
SL500 Sport 1989-2001
MINI
Cooper S 2007+
Mitsubishi
Starion ESI-R 1987-1989
Nissan
300ZX Turbo 1983-1989
300ZX Non-Turbo 1990-1996
Sentra 2013+
Sentra Nismo 2017+
SE-R All (Incl. Spec-V) 2004-2006
Pontiac
Solstice 2006-2010
Porsche
Boxster 986, Non-S 1996-2004
911 Carrera 3.2 1984-1989
911 (964) C2, C4 1989-1994
944 1982-1991
944 S2 1989-1999
968 1992-1995
Saab
9-3 2.8T All
9-3 2.0T All
Saturn
Sky Non-Redline All
Scion
FR-S All
Subaru
BRZ Limited/Premium 2013-2021
Forester XT 2004-2008
SVX 1991-1996
Toyota
86
  2013-2021
Camry 4cyl 2018+
Celica GTS 1999-2006
Prius ALL 2022+
Volkswagen
Golf 2.5 2009-2012
Golf GTI 2003+
Golf R 2012-2013
Golf Sportwagen 2012-2019
Golf VR6 1997-2003
Jetta GLI 2011+
Jetta S 2011-2019
Jetta VR6 1999-2005
Passat W8 4 Motion 2001-2004
Rabbit 2.5S  2006+
Volvo
C30 T5 2008-2013
V70 R 1997-1999

Model Trim Years
Alfa Romeo
Milano Gold 1987-1989
Milano Verde 1987-1989
BMW
2002 Base 1968-1975
3-Series E30, Non-M All
318is 1992-1998
318ti 1995-1999
Z3 1.9L All
Chevrolet
Impala LT 4cyl 2014-2020
Impala ZL1 All
Sonic All 2012-2020
Datsun
240/260/280z 1970-1978
521 1966-1972
Dodge
Charger 1982-1987
Dart SXT (2.4L) All
Neon Naturally Asp 1995-1999
Ford
Contour SVT 1998-2000
Escort ZX2 All
Festiva L 1988-1993
Fiesta 2008-2012
Focus SE 2011-2018
Probe GT 1989-1992
GMC
Sonoma 2.2L 1994-2004
Honda
Accord 1990-1993
Accord EX V6 1994-1997
Accord Sport 2013-2017
Civic 1972-1991
Civic EX 1992-2005
Civic EX 2015-2021
Civic LX 2011-2017
CRX All
Del Sol All
Fit 2007+
Prelude All
Hyundai
Tiburon GS 2007-2008
Veloster Gamma 1.6 GDi 2012+
Jensen
Healey All
Kia
Optima EX 2011-2015
Soul X-Line 2019+
Mazda
2 All
3 Naturally Asp 2004-2013
Protegé 1998-2003
Miata/MX-5 Naturally Asp 1990-2005
RX-7 Not Otherwise Classed 1979-1991
Spec Miata
Mercedes      
190E All
M320
1995-2002
Mercury      
Tracer LTS 1993-1996
MG
MGB 1962-1980
MGB GT 1962-1980
Mini
Cooper Naturally Asp All
Mitsubishi
Mirage All
Nissan
240sx All
Sentra SE-R 1990-1994
Pontiac
Fiero GT 1985-1988
Porsche
914 1.8L 1974-1975
924 1986-1988
924 S 1986-1988
Scion
tC All
Subaru
Forester Sport 2019-2022
Impreza   1992-2001
Impreza
2.5L 2001-2007
Impreza Sport 2012-2016
Legacy L FWD 1995-1999
Suzuki
Swift GT 1989-1994
Toyota
Celica Supra 1982-1986
Corolla XSE Hatchback 2019-2022
MR2 Naturally Asp ALL
Yaris 2006-2013
Triumph
Spitfire 1974-1980
Volkswagen
CC Sport 2.0T and 3.6 VR6 2008-2016
Corrado G60 1989-1993
New Beetle TDI 1998-2006
Passat 1.8T FWD 1997-2000
Volvo
240/242/244/245 1975-1993

Tuner Category Authorized Modifications

These are the Authorized Modifications for Tuner Category vehicles (i.e., what you can do to your car and have it stay in Tuner Category). Tuner Category, along with Sport and Max, are restricted rulesets. If a modification is not specifically authorized in these Rules, it is not allowed. (If it doesn't say you can, you can’t.)

The first section outlines the Tuner Category philosophy, safety minimums, vehicle eligibility and general modification rules. Following that, the individual sections outline what you can do with each system. (e.g., body, engine, suspension, etc.)

Each set of allowances is broken down into two parts, the first of which are the "Layman's Terms." These are a basic way to describe the intent and allowance. For the rules nerds in our midst, or those who think their modification might be close to OK but not quite sure, there will be a link to the full text rules which fully explains what is allowed.

In Tuner Category, a vehicle may have every modification allowed in Sport Category, plus the modifications listed here.

1. Tuner Category Overview

The Tuner Category is meant for street-driven cars with bolt-on modifications that offer a degree of adjustability. Vehicle modifications are meant to fit between the current Sport and Max Categories, providing a natural competition outlet for auto enthusiasts using sports cars and sedans equipped with common suspension and engine modifications compatible with street use.

Modifications must still be bolt-on modifications; in most cases bolting to the OE locations, but different from Sport Category these parts may be more "tunable." Items like adjustable ride-height coilovers, more complex sway bars and, for some cars, ECU hardware changes are allowed. Suspension geometry-altering items like bump-steer correction or roll-center correction kits will not be allowed. As this is a street car, aftermarket aero items such as wings, splitters, spoilers and diffusers will not be allowed.

Tuner Category is a restricted ruleset. If a modification is not specifically authorized in these Rules, it is not allowed. (If it doesn’t say you can, you can’t.)

1. Vehicles running in Sport, Tuner and Max Categories must meet Safety Level 1 Standards.

A. Roll bars, cages, racing harnesses and other safety equipment may be added, and must meet manufacturers' guidelines for installation. It is highly recommended that they at least meet the minimum for Safety Level 2 or Safety Level 3 Standards.

B. Nothing in the rules prevents you from adding safety equipment; the minimum amount of modification to install safety equipment is allowed.

C. To facilitate safety, vehicles that have an added roll bar (4-points) may remove carpet, seats and trim (including convertible tops) behind the front seats. Vehicles that have an added roll cage (6-points) may remove carpet, seats and trim (including convertible tops) other than the dash.

2. Fuel cells may be used in cars with the following restrictions and allowances:

A. Any replacement fuel cell should be constructed and installed to racing standards. (E.g., FIA/SFI approval, fuel cell enclosure, bladder, and foam baffling.)  

B. OE lines may be replaced in conjunction with a fuel cell provided they are shielded.

C. Any fuel lines—including gauge and vent lines—that pass into or through the driver/passenger compartment, shall be of steel tube or metal braided hoses or bulkheaded.

D. Drivers of cars with modified or replaced OE fuel lines or tanks must wear a suit, shoes, gloves and underwear as specified in SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 2 Standards.

E. Vehicles with modified or replaced OE fuel lines or tanks must have an on-board fire suppression (fire bottle or system) meeting SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 2 Standards.

F. Participants are cautioned that this is not an allowance to maximize fuel delivery by installing higher-performance parts than authorized by category rules. (E.g., installing an upgraded fuel pump if it's not otherwise allowed.)

1. To be eligible for Sport Category:

A. A minimum of 1,000 of that model must have been produced that model year for road use.

B. The vehicle must be capable of being licensed for normal road use in North America and delivered through the manufacturer's North American retail sales outlets.

The following items are guidelines for general repair and modifications in Sport and Tuner Categories:

A. Other than when necessary for safety enhancements, an authorized addition, modification, substitution or removal may not perform a prohibited function nor does it permit the addition, modification, substitution or removal of any other component unless it is specifically authorized.

B. Any part which becomes partially or completely detached during on-track sessions must be fixed and inspected by officials before that vehicle can return to the track. If the part is an aerodynamic addition, the part shall be completely removed for the remainder of the competition.

C. Parts (other than brakes and fluids) are not permitted to be replaced or changed after the car has passed tech inspection unless an Event Official has determined the part to be unsafe or broken badly enough that not changing it would keep the participant from the event.

D. Expendable replacement parts (e.g., bearings, seals, gaskets, filters, belts, bolts, bulbs, batteries, clutch discs, pressure plates, suspension bushings, drivetrain mounts, fenders, trim pieces, fuel filler caps, electrical sensors, etc.) may be used provided they are essentially identical to the standard parts (e.g., have the same type, size, hardness, weight, material, specifications, etc.), are used in the same location, and provide no performance benefit. These allowances are strictly to allow components to be replaced from alternate sources other than the original manufacturer. They should not be construed as an allowance to replace components with those which could be considered a “higher performance” alternative.

E. Any repairs must comply with factory-authorized methods and procedures, or industry standard methods, as follows: If the OE does not provide an appropriate method of repair, industry standard methods and procedures may be used. Such repairs may not result in a part or combination of parts that provides a competitive advantage (e.g., significant change to weight, suspension control, power, etc.) as compared to the standard part(s). Competitors are strongly cautioned to use this allowance to make common-sense repairs only. It is not permitted to use non-compliant parts even if they have been set to OE specifications.

F. Items which do not require the modification or replacement of existing parts and do not increase the peak performance of the vehicle are permitted. (E.g., a turbo or alternator blanket.)

G. Except for authorized modifications, other modifications or equipment will place the car in higher levels as appropriate. Configurations involving damaged parts (e.g., blown fuses) are not typically authorized by the manufacturer and hence are not allowed.

H. Vehicles may be street-driven cars, and SCCA does not encourage or condone the breaking of laws governing pollution control systems or the alteration of street-driven vehicles contrary to state and Federal laws regarding their use. It continues to be the responsibility of the individual to comply with such state and federal laws.

2. Tuner Category - Interior and Bodywork

You can add or take away anything allowed in Sport Category. This means you can add cosmetic items that don’t make the car any lighter and have little to no effect on performance, and you can replace the driver and passenger seats with full size/upholstered seats. 

In addition, you can change any steering wheel (as long as it stays close in size) and drill holes for your remote-reservoir shocks.

Also here - you are not limited to Sport Category short-shift kit rules, you may now change the entire linkage.

As with Sport Category, you can still take advantage of the “safety loophole.” If you add a roll bar meeting Safety Level 2 Standards, you can remove carpet and trim (convertible tops included) from behind the driver and passenger seats and even replace an airbag-equipped steering wheel. If you install a full cage meeting Safety Level 3 Standards, you can remove all the trim and carpet other than the dash.

1. A hole may be added through the bodywork to route a remote reservoir for shocks/struts and hose to a remote mounting location. Such holes may serve no other purpose.

2. Any steering wheel may be used. An alternate steering wheel assembly—including all mounting hardware—which replaces an airbag-equipped wheel is not required to have an airbag. An alternate wheel is not required to have a horn button.

3. Any shift linkage may be used.

1. Accessories, gauges, indicators, lights and other appearance, comfort and convenience modifications including pedal cover kits, alternate shift knobs and paddles which have little or no effect on performance and/or handling and do not materially reduce the weight of the car are permitted. Delayed shutdown devices such as a “turbo timer,” which perform no function while the car is in motion, are permitted. This does permit the installation of an additional mirror (e.g., Wink®). The addition of small holes for attachment hardware for cosmetic modifications is implicit (e.g., holes for fasteners to mount additional gauges).

2. The driver and front passenger seats may be replaced with the following restrictions.

A. The seating surface must be fully upholstered.

B. The top of the seat, or an attached headrest, may not be below the center of the driver’s head.

C. The seat shall be securely mounted, so as to provide fore/aft and lateral support.

D. Passenger seat must be either OE or match the requirements for the driver’s seat.

3. Alternate steering wheels are allowed, provided the outside diameter is not changed by more than 1-inch from the standard size. Steering wheels with an integral airbag may not be changed unless Safety Levels 2 or 3 Standards are met.

4. Short shift kits which only change the length of the shift rod attached to the gear shift knob may be installed. Kits which change other linkage, mounting brackets and/or tension through springs are expressly disallowed.

5. A hole may be added to interior body panels, the engine compartment, the trunk, and/or a strut bar to provide access to the adjustment mechanism on a shock absorber. The hole may serve no other purpose and may not be added through the exterior body panels.

6. Any item that cannot be held permanently in place by factory-installed fasteners may be removed.

7. Spare tires, tools and jacks may be removed. Any fastening hardware and/or other pieces that can no longer be firmly secured in the absence of the spare tire may be removed, if necessary, to ensure compliance with safety inspection requirements.

8. Data acquisition systems (including video cameras) and the accompanying sensors are allowed but may serve no other purpose during a run than real-time display and data recording.

9. With the addition of Safety equipement, the following allowances apply:

A. If the vehicle is equipped with at least a 4-point roll bar, driver’s seat, and restraints meeting SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 2 Standards:

1. Rear seats carpet and trim behind the seats may be removed.

2. Sunroofs, moonroofs, and similar roof-mounted panel cartridges may be replaced by an alternate solid panel serving no other purpose. Attachment is unrestricted but must be secure.

3. Airbags may be removed.

4. Airbag-equipped steering wheels may be replaced or have the airbag removed.

5. Convertible soft tops and related structure and brackets may be removed.

B. If the vehicle is equipped with a minimum 6-point roll cage, driver’s seat and restraints meeting SCCA Time Trials Safety Level 3 Standards, all interior carpet, trim and passenger seats other than the factory dash may be removed.

You can do anything allowed in Sport Category, so there are a few allowances there including adding some trim.

In addition to Sport Category allowances, you can use an aftermarket hard top - including those of carbon as long as it's an exact copy (no aero advantage from stock) and uses the factory latches. You can also remove rub strips, replace pop-up headlights, roll your fenders and add commercially available bodywork molding, trim, and other appearance modifications including flexible “chin lips,” which don't affect performance or reduce the weight of the car.

1. Front hoods, engine covers, trunk lids and hatches not containing glass, front fenders, rear fenders not part of chassis structure (unibody), front and rear bodywork, and side skirts may be replaced with factory parts or exact duplicates in order to facilitate allowed modifications.

2. Vehicles with removable hardtops may use an exact replica hard top including one made of of alternate materials. Replacement pieces must be able to use OE hinges and latching mechanisms as standard.

3. Factory rub strips may be removed.

4. OE “pop-up” headlights may be replaced with static headlights, provided the replacement units are intended for automobile use on public roads as a primary means of illumination, and retain high and low beams as originally provided by the manufacturer. Minor repositioning of the headlights can accommodate the alternate headlight, but the unit may not be relocated, and the repositioning may serve no other purpose. All associated hardware may be removed, replaced or modified.

5. Fenders may be rolled but not flared, but no material may be added or removed, pinch-welds may not be expanded, nor may the general shape and contour of the fender be modified.

6. Commercially available bodywork cladding, molding, trim, accessories, lights and other appearance modifications including flexible “chin lips,” which have little or no effect on performance and/or handling and do not materially reduce the weight of the car are permitted. The addition of small holes for attachment hardware for cosmetic modifications is implicit (e.g., holes for fasteners to mount side skirts).

This allowance seemingly grey for any SCCA traditionalists – is to encompass exactly what it says. Cosmetic items. This is intended to allow mass-produced aftermarket items which resemble what a factory accessory catalog or auto-parts store accessory isle might have. Meaning, this allowance is for items which may look like performance parts but do not change anything which could affect warranties by increasing stress/improving performance.

1. Addition or removal of spoilers, splitters, spoilers, single-element rear wings, bumper covers, valances, side skirts, convertible hard tops and scoops/vents is allowed provided that:

A. The removal of parts matches a production model of that generation classed in Sport Category. (eg., You may not remove parts unless a model of that vehicle was available without the part or parts.)

B. It is a production part which is standard or optional equipment of a model of the vehicle classed in Sport Category.

C. It is listed in the vehicle manufacturer’s accessory catalog for that vehicle for normal highway use. This may not allow for parts sold through a manufacturer’s performance catalog (e.g., Ford Racing, HPD, Mazdaspeed, Mopar Performance, Mugen, NISMO, SPT, TRD, etc.).

D. All allowed parts must be installed as directed by the manufacturer. Exact replicas, including weight, from alternate sources are also permitted.

E. Updated parts, replacement parts, or any other changes by the manufacturer documented in the parts catalog or other manufacturer documentation as superseding the original part number used when manufactured are considered to be standard parts.

F. Wings and Spoilers are subject to the following restrictions unless the vehicle is in the same class:

1. The part may not be adjustable.

2. The unit (wing, supports and end plates) may not be constructed by more than three primary pieces. (E.g., a wing with separate wing element, end plates and supports as in a Cayman GT4 or Camaro ZL1 1LE would not be allowed on a lower-class Cayman or Camaro.)

2. Factory emblems, mud flaps, bolt-on front valance lips/spoilers and fog lights (except those integral to a headlight or turn signal) may be removed. Rear wings may be removed so long as the vehicle retains any federally-mandated third brake light.

3. Hood straps or fasteners may be added.

4. Cars may add one (1) rear trailer hitch. The resulting weight addition is allowed. The hitch may serve no other purpose. Factory tie downs and cosmetic pieces (e.g., diffusers) may be modified or removed to facilitate hitch installation. Complete or partial removal of the hitch is allowed for competition, provided it does not result in a reduction in weight compared to the unmodified standard configuration.

5. Tow bar brackets may be installed but may serve no other purpose.

6. Tow hooks and tie downs may be added, modified or replaced. Addition of tow hooks and tie downs are permitted, and location is unrestricted. Non-standard tow hooks shall serve no other function.

3. Tuner Category - Wheels and Tires

Just like in Sport Category you can use any wheel, including composite wheels (as long as they pass safety inspections). However in Tuner Category, there is no minimum weight, so you can use those ultra-light wheels to your heart's content.

1. Any width or diameter wheel and wheel spacers may be used provided it complies with the following:

A. Non-metallic wheels must be certified/approved from an appropriate, recognized standards organization. (e.g., FIA, SFI, SAE, TUV, etc.)

B. Wheel spacers are permitted.

C. Wheel studs, lug nuts, valve stems (including pressure-relief types) and/or bolt length may be changed. Wheel bolts may be replaced with studs and nuts, but the number of fasteners may not be changed.

D. Tire pressure monitoring sensors may be removed.

E. Centerlock/spline drive/knock-off type hubs may be converted to lug-type hubs.

2. There are no wheel weight restrictions in Tuner Category.

1. Any width or diameter wheel and wheel spacers may be used provided it complies with the following:

A. Non-metallic wheels must be certified/approved from an appropriate, recognized standards organization. (e.g., FIA, SFI, SAE, TUV, etc.)

B. Wheel spacers are permitted.

C. Wheel studs, lug nuts, valve stems (including pressure-relief types) and/or bolt length may be changed. Wheel bolts may be replaced with studs and nuts, but the number of fasteners may not be changed.

D. Tire pressure monitoring sensors may be removed.

E. Centerlock/spline drive/knock-off type hubs may be converted to lug-type hubs.

F. Aftermarket, accessory-catalog or non-standard OE wheels shall meet the minimum wheel weights determined by the following formula and multiplier.

(Diameter + Width) x Multiplier

15-inch Wheels

(Diameter + Width) * 0.48

16 and 17-inch Wheels

(Diameter + Width) * 0.58

18-inch Wheels

(Diameter + Width) * 0.65

19 and 20-inch Wheels

(Diameter + Width) * 0.71

Example: For a 15-inch diameter by 7.5-inch width (15x7.5) wheel: 15 + 7.5 = 22.5, then multiply 22.5 x 0.48 which = minimum weight of 10.8 lbs. for any 15x7.5-inch wheel.

Tires still have to be 200 treadwear or higher, but Tuner Category has a different set of width restrictions.

1. Tires must meet the eligibility and use requirements of the Sport Category, but do not have to meet Sport Category width limits.

2. Tuner Tire Width Limits

Tires shall have a section width up to and including the following (mm):

CLASS

DRIVE

WIDTH LIMIT (In MM)

Tuner 1 (T1)

2-Wheel Drive

355

 

All-Wheel-Drive

335

Tuner 2 (T2)

2-Wheel Drive

315

 

All-Wheel Drive

305

Tuner 3 (T3)

2-Wheel Drive

285

 

All-Wheel Drive

265

Tuner 4 (T4)

2-Wheel Drive

265

 

All-Wheel Drive

245

Tuner 5 (T5)

2-Wheel Drive

245

 

All-Wheel Drive

225

3. Cars in Tuner Classes 2–5 and are otherwise legal for Tuner Category may bump up classes based on tire size. Cars in Tuner 1 with oversized tires will go into their appropriate Prepped or Max Category class.

Tires must meet the following requirements to be eligible for use in Sport Category. No tire model will be eligible for Time Trials competition until it meets all requirements of this section. Tire models not meeting the requirements by January 1st are not eligible for Time Trials competition until after the Time Trials National Championships of the year.

1. Specification

A. Minimum UTQG Treadwear Grade of 200.

B. Minimum molded tread depth of 7/32 inch as specified by the manufacturer.

C. Listed in a current year or prior two years of the “Tire Guide®” and/or the “Tread Design Guide®” (www.tireguides.com).

D. US Department of Transportation (DOT) approval.

E. Tires must be designed for highway use on passenger cars.

2. Eligibility Requirements:
The following are prerequisites before a tire can be used in competition at National Time Trials Events.

A. Tire availability: Tires are considered available when competitors can take possession through retail channels. Pre-orders are not considered available.

B. Tires must be equally available to all competitors. Tires that are in short supply do not specifically violate this section. Extensive shortages may result in the tire being placed on the exclusion list until supply is replenished. Tire variations differing from standard specification, delivered only on a limited basis, or only to selected competitors may not be used.

C. Tire models must have tires available in at least four (4) rim diameters and in at least six (6) sizes which meet these requirements.

D. Material Change: Tires which previously met the eligibility requirements that undergo a significant compound change, tread pattern change, or other significant redesign reset the requirement for eligibility described in this section.

E. A tire model which was previously allowed by these rules continues to be eligible for competition until specifically disallowed.

F. Reintroduction: Models that were once discontinued will be considered a new model once reintroduced and must meet all the requirements of this section.

3. Tire Size Limits
Tires are limited to the OE section width, or have a section width up to and including the following (mm):

CLASS

DRIVE

WIDTH LIMIT (in MM)

Sport 1 (S1)

2-Wheel Drive

355

 

All-Wheel-Drive

335

Sport 2 (S2)

2-Wheel Drive

315

 

All-Wheel Drive

305

Sport 3 (S3)

2-Wheel Drive

285

 

All-Wheel Drive

265

Sport 4 (S4)

2-Wheel Drive

265

 

All-Wheel Drive

245

Sport 5 (S5)

2-Wheel Drive

245

 

All-Wheel Drive

225

Sport 6 (S6)

2-Wheel Drive

225

 

All-Wheel Drive

215


Cars in Classes 2–6 and are otherwise legal for Sport Category may bump up classes based on tire size. Cars in Sport 1 with oversized tires will go into their vehicle appropriate Tuner Category class.


4. Tire Use

A. Scored Sessions
Unless a “wet session” is declared by event officials, vehicles must run on the same set of tires for all scored competition rounds, and the tires should be marked with a stamp on grid of the first competition. Tires may also be replaced at the discretion of the Technical Chief in cases safety issues such as damage or excessive wear. (Entrants are warned that damage caused by deliberate abusive handling or deliberate shaving should not be given a replacement allowance.)

B. Unscored Sessions
Vehicles are required to practice on tires which are legal for scored sessions in their class, but do not have to be the same set.


5. Other

A. Tires may be shaved evenly and parallel to the axis of rotation, but may not otherwise be siped, grooved or modified.

B. Tires must have a minimum tread depth of 2/32nds at two (2) points 180 degrees apart.

C. No recap and/or retread tires may be used.

D. Excluded tires: Tires may be excluded for, but not limited to, low volume production, extensive availability limitations and specialty design.

E. The tire must not appear on the following exclusion list, which may be altered at any time by the Time Trials Board (TTB) upon notification of membership.

- Kumho V720 ACR (less than minimum molded tread depth)

- Vitour Tempesta P1

4. Tuner Category - Brakes

You can do everything you're allowed to do in Sport Category (like cross-drilled/slotted rotors, or OE brake option packages). You're also allowed to install "big brake kits" and add ducting to help keep them cool.

1. Non-standard brake rotors may be used provided they are of equal or larger dimensions. Nominal reductions in rotor thickness or diameter in common big brake kits are permitted.

2. Aluminum rotor hats are allowed.

3. Cars originally equipped with solid (non-vented) rotors may utilize vented rotors.

4. Brake calipers and mounting brackets may be replaced provided they bolt to the standard locations and the number of or surface area of pistons is equal to or greater than standard. A functioning emergency brake of the same type, operation, and actuation as OE must be present. Drum brakes may be replaced with disc brakes of a diameter equal to or greater than the inside diameter of the standard drum. Such conversions must be bolted, not welded, to the axle/trailing arm/upright and must include an integral, redundant emergency brake. Changes to backing plates/dust shields/brake lines to accommodate these changes are permitted but may serve no other purpose.

5. Air ducts may be fitted to the brakes and changes may be made in the body/structure for their use. Ducts or holes may serve no other purpose. Backing plates and dirt shields may be modified or removed.

6. A single brake master cylinder brace may be added provided it is bolt-on and serves no other purpose.

1. The make and material of brake pad/shoe linings (friction material) may be changed.

2. Non-standard brake rotors may be used provided they are of equal or larger dimensions (diameter and thickness) and match the OE design and are constructed of the OE or heavier materials. Thickness includes the individual plates of a vented rotor, as well as the overall dimension. The diameter for replacement rotors is measured at the minimum outside dimension. Cross-drilled and/or slotted brake rotors may be fitted provided all such voids are within the disc area and comprise no more than 10% of that area.

3. Brake lines may be substituted with alternate DOT-approved flexible brake lines.

4. Alternate brake bleeder fittings (e.g., Speedbleeders®) are permitted. They may serve no other purpose.

5. Standard anti-lock braking systems (ABS) may be electrically disabled but may not be removed or altered in any other way.

6. Brake Rotors and Calipers may be swapped to OE option package configurations from the same model and generation of car, providing the rotor width and diameter are of equal or larger sizes and the number of caliper pistons is the equal or greater. The allowances from 1–5 also apply to option package swaps.

7. Air ducts may be fitted to the brakes and changes may be made to option-package lights, splash shields, backing plates, dirt shields and removable trim pieces to facilitate instillation and routing but not parts like bumper-covers. The intent is that altered parts are easily put back to “stock” or not cosmetically visible. Ducts or holes may serve no other purpose. Control arm mounted brake ducting, or air scoops, may also be fitted, providing they serve no other purpose.

5. Tuner Category - Steering and Suspension

You can replace steering rack bushings, as long as they stay the OE material (i.e., rubber).

Steering rack bushings may be replaced but must attach in the factory location(s) without additional modification or changes. Steering rack position may not be changed. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited. This does not allow shimming or otherwise relocating the steering rack.

The Tuner Category Rules allow you to replace your stock shocks and struts with most shocks or struts which bolt to the stock places and don't alter suspension geometry. (This mean's threaded-body coilovers are OK, as well as remote reservoirs and more than one adjustment.)

There are also some allowances for converting to a spring/shock assembly for cars that had the spring separate from the shock.

1. Shocks and Strut Replacement Allowances:

A. Any shock absorbers may be used.

B. Shock absorber mounting brackets which serve no other purpose may be altered, added, or replaced, provided that the attachment points on the body/frame/subframe/chassis/suspension member are not altered. This installation may incorporate an alternate upper spring perch/seat and/or mounting block (bearing mount). The system of attachment may be changed.

C. The number of shock absorbers shall be the same as standard.

D. No shock absorber may be capable of adjustment while the car is in motion, unless fitted as original equipment.

E. MacPherson strut equipped cars may substitute struts and/or may use any insert. This does not allow unauthorized changes in suspension geometry or changes in attachment points (e.g., affecting the position of the lower ball joint or spindle). It is intended to allow the strut length changes needed to accommodate permitted modifications which affect ride height and suspension travel.

2. The following additional allowances apply to cars originally equipped with separate spring and shock absorber assemblies.

A. Coil springs may be relocated so they encircle the body of the shock absorber in a “coilover” configuration.

B. Coil spring perches may be modified, added, or replaced and their position may be adjustable.

C. Additional bolt holes may be drilled for coilover assembly mounting brackets. This does not permit any modifications to the frame or unibody beyond the allowed mounting holes.

Sport Category vehicles may use any springs that fit the rules. There are no limits on where to get the spring from as there are in Sport Category.

Springs must be of the same type as the original (e.g., coil, leaf, torsion bar, bellows) and except as noted herein, must use the original spring attachment points. This permits multiple springs, if they use the original mount locations. Coil spring perches originally attached to struts or shock absorber bodies may be changed or altered and their position may be adjustable. Spacers are allowed above or below the spring. Coil springs may incorporate spring rubbers. Suspension bump stops may be altered or removed.

You can add any sway bar, including fancy splined ones that don't directly replace the OE sway bars.

Substitution or removal of sway bars (at one or both ends of the car) and supporting hardware (brackets, end links, bushings, etc.) is permitted. Tow hooks may be removed for the instillation of sway bars.

You can install a 2-point strut brace if there were no strut braces, or replace a 2-point with a 2-point, or replace a 3-point with a 3-point. There are also allowances for strut braces on the underside of the car, and some attachment rules.

Strut bars are permitted with all types of suspension, subject to the following constraints:

1. A 2-point strut bar may be added, removed, modified, or substituted, but only with another 2-point strut bar.

2. A triangulated (3-point) strut bar may be removed, modified, or substituted; substitution may be with either a triangulated or a 2-point strut bar. The connection to the chassis (e.g., firewall, bulkhead) must be in the standard location.

3. Lower suspension braces must be attached to the lower suspension pickup point locations on the chassis within 2 inches (50.8mm) in any direction of the actual suspension attachment to the chassis.

4. Except for standard parts, no connections to other components are permitted. Additional holes may be drilled for mounting bolts. Only “bolt-on” attachment is permitted. Interior trim panels may be modified to allow installation of strut bars. Holes or slots may be no larger than necessary and may serve no other purpose. This does not permit any modifications to the frame or unibody beyond the allowed mounting holes.

As part of Tuner Category, this is where much of the “tuning” comes in. Here you can change ride height through suspension adjustments and some other items, you can replace suspension bushings, if you keep the ratio of rubber to metal the same. You can also install either camber plates, or camber bolts, or adjustable control arms—but not more than one of them. We also let you replace a non-adjustable arm with one that doesn’t adjust, if it’s available at the Tire Rack or on the list below.

For the rear-wheel-drive folks in Tuner Category, we have some allowances just for you as well; things like traction bars, stabilizers, Panhard rods and differential covers.

This one has some complication to it, so if you’re really getting crazy with suspension, it’ll pay to give the full rules a good look.

1. Ride height may only be altered by suspension adjustments, the use of spacing blocks, leaf spring shackles, torsion bar levers, or change or modification of springs or coil spring perches. This does not allow the use of spacers that alter suspension geometry, such as those between the hub carrier and lower suspension arm.

2. Suspension bushings may be replaced with bushings of any materials (except metal) if they fit in the original location. Offset bushings may be used. In a replacement bushing, the amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited unless there is a solid metal bushing as an OE part for the specific year/make/model. This does not authorize a change in type of bushing (e.g., ball and socket replacing a cylindrical bushing) or use of a bushing with an angled hole whose direction differs from that of the original bushing. If the standard bushing accommodated multi-axis motion via compliance of the component material(s), the replacement bushing may not be changed to accommodate such motion via a change in bushing type, for example to a spherical bearing or similar component involving internal moving parts. Pins or keys may be used to prevent the rotation of alternate bushings but may serve no other purpose than that of retaining the bushing in the desired position.

3. The following allowances apply to strut-type suspensions. Adjustable camber plates may be installed at the top of the strut and the original upper mounting holes may be slotted. The drilling of holes to perform the installation is permitted. The center clearance hole may not be modified. Any type of bearing or bushing may be used in the adjustable camber plate attachment to the strut. The installation may incorporate an alternate upper spring perch/seat and/or mounting block (bearing mount). Any ride height change resulting from installation of camber plates is allowed. Caster changes resulting from the use of camber plates are permitted.

4. Camber bolts may be installed providing these parts use the original, unmodified mounting points and meet the restrictions specified in Sport Category. Caster changes resulting from the use of camber bolts are permitted.

5. Camber kits (also known as camber compensators) may be installed. These kits consist of either adjustable length arms or arm mounts (including ball joints) that provide a lateral adjustment to the effective length of a control arm. Alignment outside the factory specifications is allowed. The following restrictions apply:

A. On double/unequal arm (e.g., wishbone, multi-link) suspensions, only the upper arms OR lower arms may be adjustable, but not both. Non-integral longitudinal arms that primarily control fore/aft wheel movement (e.g., trailing arm(s) or link(s) of a multi-link suspension) may not be replaced, changed, or modified.

B. On arm-and-strut (MacPherson/Chapman) suspensions, the lower arms may be adjustable OR other methods of camber adjustment as allowed by the previous sections may be used, but NOT both.

C. The non-adjusting control arms for vehicles having integral bushing/arm assemblies may be replaced subject to the following restrictions.

a. Arm length must remain the same as OE.

b. The part may not be adjustable.

c. The replacement arms must attach to the original standard mounting points. All bushings must meet the requirements of this section. Intermediate mounting points (e.g., shock/spring mounts) may not be moved or relocated on the arm. The knuckle/bearing housing/spindle assembly cannot be modified or replaced.

d. Any allowed arm must be commonly available (or have been available) at SCCA supporting partner Tire Rack, for regular retail sales and without custom order. Parts do not have to be sourced from Tire Rack, but they must be as they would have come off the shelf there, or the part must be on a specific approval list.

e. If you believe there is a commonly available retail unit which otherwise fits the intent of these Rules but is not available at Tire Rack you may write in for specific approval of that brand and model.

6. On swing or trailing arm suspensions, the main arms may not be modified or replaced, but lateral locating links/arms may be modified or replaced.

7. Front wheel drive (FWD) cars with rear beam axles may use shims between the rear axle and hubs.

8. The replacement arms or mounts must attach to the original standard mounting points. All bushings must meet the requirements of Tuner Category Rules. Intermediate mounting points (e.g., shock/spring mounts) may not be moved or relocated on the arm, except as incidental to the camber adjustment. The knuckle/bearing housing/spindle assembly cannot be modified or replaced.

9. Changes in suspension geometry are not allowed except as incidental to the effective arm length change.

Note: Many modern suspension designs known by other names, actually function as double A–arm designs. These include the rear suspensions on 1988-on Honda Civic/Integra, Chrysler/Plymouth/Dodge Neon, BMW E36, and most “multi-link” and are covered by the double/unequal arm rule.

10. On strut-equipped cars, the strut’s lower integral mounting bracket, for attachment to the upright or spindle, is unrestricted provided it attaches to the standard location. Any resulting change to the position of the strut centerline is allowed. Such brackets shall serve no other purpose. This does not allow for changes to the integral steering arm on cars that have the steering arm integrated with the strut body.

11. Changes in alignment parameters that result directly from the use of the allowed components are permitted. For example, the dimensional changes resulting from the use of a cylindrical offset bushing that meets the restrictions of Tuner Category Rules are allowed, including those resulting from a change in the pivoting action to:

A. About the mounting bolt, or

B. About the bushing itself.

12. Subframe mount bushings may be replaced but must attach in the standard location(s) without additional modification or changes. Subframe position may not be changed. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited unless there is a solid metal bushing as an OE part for the specific year/make/model on a trim level classed in Tuner Category.

13. The following list is Solid Axle Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) Suspension Allowances:

A. Addition or replacement of suspension stabilizers (linkage connecting the axle housing or De Deion to the chassis, which controls lateral suspension location) is permitted.

B. Traction bars or torque arms may be added or replaced.

C. A Panhard rod may be added or replaced.

D. The upper arm(s) may be removed, replaced, or modified and the upper pickup points on the rear axle housing may be relocated.

E. The lower arms may be replaced or modified and the lower pickup points on the rear axle housing may be relocated.

F. Differential covers and attaching hardware may be replaced.

G. Methods of attachment and attachment points are unrestricted but may serve no other purpose (e.g., chassis stiffening). This does not authorize removal of a welded-on part of a subframe to accommodate the installation.

The following non-adjustable control arms not available at Tire Rack are allowed in SCCA Time Trials Tuner Category:

There are no models listed at this time.

You are allowed sub frame connectors (SFCs) that run front-to-back, but there are some rules on installations. For instance, you can drill for mounting bolts, but you can't weld them in or cut subframes or unibody.

Longitudinal (fore-aft) subframe connectors (SFCs) are permitted with the following restrictions:

1. They must only connect previously unconnected boxed frame rails on unibody vehicles.

2. Each SFC must attach at no more than three (3) points on the unibody (e.g., front, rear, and one point in between such as a seat mount brace or rocker box brace).

3. SFCs must be bolted in place and not welded.

4. No cutting of OE subframes or floorpan stampings is permitted. Drilling is permitted for mounting bolts only.

5. No cross-car/lateral/triangulated connections directly between the driver’s side and passenger’s side SFCs are permitted. Connections to OE components such as tunnel braces or closure panels via bolts are allowed and count as the third point of attachment. No alteration to the OE components is permitted.

6. SFCs may not be used to attach other components (including but not limited to torque arm front mounts or driveshaft loops) and may serve no other purpose.

6. Tuner Category - Electrical

In addition to everything allowed in Sport Category like spark plugs, spark plug wires and grounding cables, Tuner Category allows you to replace your battery—even to a lightweight one—and relocate it if you want. Of course, this doesn't apply to electric or hybrid cars, because we're pretty sure that would get out of hand! You can also replace the alternator and install things like electric fans.

Read the full rules to see details on things like cables and making sure it's all done safe.

Except for those with electric and hybrid powertrains, Tuner Category vehicles may do everything allowed in Sport Category plus the list below.

1. OE traction control systems may be electrically disabled, but not removed or altered in any other way.

2. The make, model number and size of the battery may be changed, but not its voltage.

3. Relocation of the battery or batteries is permitted but not into the passenger compartment. If the battery is relocated and the original battery tray can be removed by simply unbolting it, the tray may be removed or relocated with the battery. Holes may be drilled for mounting or passage of cables. Longer or shorter cables may be substituted to permit relocation.

4. The number of battery or batteries may not be changed from standard. The area behind the rearmost seat is not considered to be within the passenger compartment. The area under the rearmost seat is within the passenger compartment.

5. Holes may be drilled in the firewall to permit passage of electrical wiring. It should be no larger than necessary to facilitate allowed modifications in this section and shall serve no other purpose.

6. Any starter, generator or alternator may be used in the original position. An alternator or generator must have an electrical output (including amperage) equal to or greater than the original equipment unit. Any generator or alternator pulley and belt of the same type as standard may be used.

7. Electrically driven fans are allowed. Flex fans are not allowed.

1. The make of spark plugs, points, ignition coil and high-tension wires is unrestricted including spark plug wires having an in-line capacitor. Substitution or addition of ignition coil mounting brackets is permitted, provided they affix to the original standard location and serve no other purpose. (Modification of the distributor cap for the purpose of installing allowed non-standard components is not permitted.)

2. On cars made prior to January 1, 1968, any ignition system using a standard distributor without modification may be used.

3. Ignition settings may not be mechanically adjusted outside factory specifications.

4. Additional battery hold-down hardware may be added to supplement the standard equipment in order to meet safety inspection requirements. It may serve no other purpose.

5. Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) may be disabled. Altering the signal to the TPMS is permitted.

6. On cars without the ability to turn off anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic stability control and/or traction control (ESC/TC) from the manufacturer, modifications to defeat the ABS/ESC/TC are permitted. These modifications are limited to altering the inputs to the ABS/ESC/TC processor (e.g., removing fuses, unplugging yaw or steering angle sensors, altering signals, etc.) and may serve no other purpose. Any codes or error lights resulting from ABS/ESC/TC modifications are permitted.

7. On cars equipped with computer-aided gear selection or “skip-shift” features from the manufacturer, modifications to defeat the skip-shift feature are permitted any may serve no other purpose.

8. On cars with electronically-controlled exhaust pipe valving downstream of the catalytic converter, devices may be added to satisfy the PCM/ECU provided the OE component is still installed. Such devices shall perform no other function.

9. The addition of electrical grounding cables and associated distribution blocks/terminals is permitted. Holes may be drilled for mounting only. This does not permit the use of electrical enhancement components such as condensers, voltage controllers, etc.

7. Tuner Category - Engine and Drivetrain

All the stuff in Sport Category is still allowed. In Tuner, you can reflash the ECU just like you can in Sport Category and add a fuel pressure regulator. For cars 1995 and older, you can now run a standalone ECU, or chip your OE ECU, or add a piggyback.

For forced induction cars, you can run a manual/mechanical boost controller in Tuner Category.

In addition to the Sport Category allowed modifications, the following modifications may be made to Tuner Category ECU/engine controls:

1. For all model years, the following allowances apply:

A. The standard PCM/ECU may be re-programmed without restriction.

B. Fuel pressure regulator(s) may be replaced in lieu of electronic hardware or software alterations. It is not permitted to mechanically alter the fuel pressure regulation AND make other hardware or software changes to engine operation.

C. Ignition timing may be set at any point on factory-adjustable distributor ignition systems.

D. Alternate computer control modules may be used whenever an equivalent change to the conventional system is allowed. For example, alternate computer module control of ignition settings or fuel injection is allowed.

2. 1995 and older vehicles, in addition, may replace the standard PCM/ECU without restriction.
3. Boost may be controlled through a mechanical boost controller.

1. OE traction control systems may be electrically disabled, but not removed or altered in any other way.

2. The engine management system parameters and operation of internal combustion engines may be modified only via the methods listed below.

A. OE ECU software may be reprogramed, but no changes to the factory ECU hardware are permitted.

B. Any OE OBD2 or newer communications port functionality must remain.

C. The Check Engine Light (CEL) or Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may be disabled via software.

D. Only OE sensors may be used for engine management.

E. Ignition timing may be set at any point on factory adjustable distributor ignition systems.

Everything from Sport Category is legal, but now forced induction cars can change charge pipes and blow-off valves or add/replace an intercooler. Only the minimal amount of trimming can be done to install it though, so if you get too fancy with openings and such, it's off to Max you go!

In addition to the Sport Category allowed modifications, the following modifications may be made to Tuner Category vehicle intakes:

1. Intercoolers
As utilized only on engines originally equipped with forced induction, induction charge heat exchangers (also known as “intercoolers” or “charge air coolers” [CACs]) are unrestricted in size and configuration and are subject to the following restrictions: 

1. Air-to-air CACs and radiators for air-to-liquid CACs must be cooled only by the atmosphere except for standard parts.

2. Body panels, fascias, or structural members may not be cut or altered to facilitate CAC installation.

2. Charge Pipes
Charge pipes may be modified or replaced. Replacement charge pipes may delete or block off factory pipes designed to enhance intake sounds (“noisemakers”). Modification or deletion of vehicle components (e.g. plastic shrouds, wheel well liners) to permit routing of alternate charge pipes is not allowed.

3. Compressor Bypass Valves
Compressor Bypass Valves (CBVs), blow-off valves, and pop-off valves may be replaced or modified.

1. The air intake system up to, but not including, the engine inlet may be modified or replaced.

A. The engine inlet is the throttle body, carburetor, compressor inlet, or intake manifold, whichever comes first relative to the intake flow.

B. The existing structure of the car may not be modified for the passage of ducting from the air cleaner to the engine inlet. Holes may be drilled for mounting.

C. Emissions or engine management components in the air intake system, such as a PCV valve or mass airflow sensor, may not be removed, modified, or replaced, and must retain their original function along the flow path.

You can replace your radiator with a larger one (but not a smaller one) as long as it goes in the stock locations and uses the stock mounts. You can also add water overflow tanks (called expansion tanks).

1. Engine cooling radiators may be replaced or added with alternate parts subject to the following restrictions:

A. Radiator core dimensions (width, height, thickness) cannot be smaller than the standard part.

B. Radiator must mount to OE radiator mounts.

C. Fluid capacity and dry weight of the radiator must be no less than that of the standard part. Installation of an alternate radiator may serve no other purpose (e.g., to allow a cold air intake passage).

D. The installation of water expansion tanks is allowed. A water expansion tank is the container which catches overflow coolant.

E. Thermostats may be added or substituted. A thermostat is a device which controls the passage of water.

F. Modifications necessary for additional radiators must be the minimum required for installation.

You can rebuild the engine, but you have to stay within tight factory service limits. If you're going to rebuild your engine, or your engine has been rebuilt, give the full Rules a look.

1. Engine Service Limits

A. Engines may be rebored to the manufacturer’s first standard overbore, not to exceed 0.020 inch (0.508 mm). Sleeving is allowed to repair to the standard bore. Only OE-type standard or first overbore pistons of the same configuration and of the same or greater weights are permitted. No interchange between cast and forged pistons is allowed.

B. Valve seats and guides in older engines originally designed for leaded fuel may be only substituted with alternate components if the dimensions are the same as those of the standard components.

All the stuff that was approved in Sport Category, plus in Tuner Category, you can have mechanical Limited Slip Differentials (LSD), and replace final drive ring and pinions with alternate parts as long as the final drive ratio isn't changed from OE.

You can also use an aftermarket pressure plate and clutch disk as long as they are both the same diameter and design as stock; so no multi-puck clutches unless your car came with it from the factory. You can replace the flywheel as long as the diameter and material are the same, so you can't put an aluminum flywheel in place of a steel one.

Differential bushings and transmission mounts can now be replaced, as long as they are the same material as stock (solid metal is a no-no).

1. Limited Slip Differentials (LSD): Any mechanical LSD unit is permitted. Final drive ring and pinion gears may be replaced with alternate parts, provided the final drive does not change.

2. Any mechanical shift linkage may be used.

3. Any clutch disc and pressure plate of stock diameter and design may be used, provided that they can be bolted directly to an unmodified stock flywheel.

4. Alternate flywheels are permitted. Flywheel material shall be the same type as OE and the ring gear diameter must be the same as the OE flywheel.

5. Any transmission mount is allowed provided it attaches only to the original mounting points, does not relocate the transmission (other than incidental to changes in compliance material), and weighs no less than the OE mount. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited. All components between the transmission and the mounting structure are considered to be part of the mount assembly.

6. Differential mount bushings may be replaced but must attach in the standard location(s) without additional modification or changes. Differential position may not be changed. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited.

7. Electronic Transmission/Differential Control

1. The Transmission Control Unit (TCU) may be re-programmed. This allowance only applies to modification of transmission behaviors and does not extend to re-programming any other components.

2. Electronic differentials may be re-programmed. This allowance only applies to changing differential behaviors and does not extend to re-programming any other components.

1. Transmission and differential coolers and lines may be added.

2. Shifter bushings may be replaced; non-metal bushings may not be replaced with metal bushings.

In Tuner Category, you can do anything you can in Sport Category, but now you can also replace the header, down pipes header(s) or downpipe(s). The Catalytic Converter can be replaced, but there are limits on what you can do and where you can put it.

Remember though, making sure it is safely installed and you stay in line with federal laws and track noise limits is up to you.

1. Exhaust manifolds, headers, downpipes, and associated EGR tubes may be replaced with alternate units. Exhaust exit may be relocated provided it meets safety requirements. Relocation of the oxygen sensor on the header is permitted. Exhaust heat shields which cover only, and attach solely to, these parts may also be replaced, removed, or modified. All other exhaust heat shields may be modified the minimum amount necessary to accommodate allowed alternate exhaust components. Mounting brackets/hardware which serve no other purpose are considered part of the exhaust components.

2. Catalytic converters – Any catalytic converters are allowed, provided they meet the following restrictions.

A. Catalytic converters must attach within 18” (457.2 mm) of the original unit.

B. Multiple catalytic converters may be replaced by a single unit.

C. The inlet of the single replacement converter may be located no further downstream than 18” (457.2 mm) along the piping flow path from the original exit of the final OE converter.

D. The extents of an OE converter are defined by the expansion chamber in which the catalyst is contained, regardless of placement within larger exhaust sections.

E. Replacement converters must have a minimum catalyst density of 100 cells per inch and minimum substrate length of 3” (76.2 mm).

Note: The SCCA does not encourage or condone the breaking of laws governing pollution control systems or the alteration of street-driven vehicles contrary to state and Federal laws regarding their use. It continues to be the responsibility of the individual to comply with such state and federal laws.

1. Any part of the exhaust system beyond (downstream from) the last catalytic converter, if so equipped, may be substituted or removed provided the system exits the car in the original location and meets safety requirements.

2. Vehicles equipped with exhausts that exit in multiple locations may change to a single outlet in any of the original locations.

3. Stainless steel heat exchangers are permitted only if the physical dimensions and configuration remain unchanged.

4. Modifications of any type, including additions to or removal of, the catalytic converters, thermal reactors, or any other pollution control devices in the exhaust system are not allowed and the system must be operable.

5. Replacement catalytic converters must be OE if the vehicle has not exceeded the warranty period as mandated by the EPA. Converters must be of the same type and size and used in the same location as the original equipment converter(s). This does not allow for a high-performance unit. If the vehicle has exceeded the warranty period, replacement catalytic converters must be OE-type.

6. Exhaust hangers which are welded on the car are considered part of the body and may not be changed or removed.

In addition to everything you can do in Sport Category, now you can change oil pans, oil pickups, differential covers, and add fluid coolers for oil and transmission coolers.

1. Oil pans, oil-pan baffles, windage trays, oil pickups and differential covers may be modified or substituted with the following restrictions:

A. Addition or modification of crankshaft scrapers is not allowed.

2. Engine oil, transmission fluid, differential fluid and power steering fluid coolers may be added or substituted (including oil to coolant heat exchangers), but may not serve any additional purpose.

3. Oil accumulators and associated hardware may be installed given it serves no other purpose. If any portion of the oiling system is inside the driver compartment, the vehicle and driver must meet safety level 2 standards at a minimum.

1. Any oil filter may be added if not originally equipped. Canister-type oil filters may be replaced with a spin-on type filter using a minimum amount of hardware and connecting lines.

2. Any oil or grease, including synthetic, is permitted.

3. Coolers and lines may be added for lubricating and hydraulic-type fluids (i.e. not fuel).

4. The installation of oil catch tanks or oil separators is allowed provided the function of the PCV system remains intact.

5. Cars with combustion chamber oil injection systems (such as those in rotary engines) may supplement the standard engine lubrication with additional oil supplied through the standard fuel delivery system.

You can do all the stuff from Sport Category, plus now you can do things like change engine mounts and accessory pullies (crank pully, pullies for AC and power steering belts, but not timing gears, cam gears or supercharger pullies!).

The following external engine components may be changed or replaced, with the listed restrictions:

1. Any accessory pulleys and belts of the same type (e.g., V-belt, serpentine) as standard may be used. This allowance applies to accessory pulleys only (e.g., alternator, water pump, power steering pump and crankshaft drive pulleys). It does not allow replacement, modification, or substitution of pulleys, cogs, gears or belts which are part of cam, layshaft, or ignition drive or timing systems, etc. Any crankshaft damper or pulley may be used. SFI-rated dampers are recommended. Supercharged cars may not change the effective diameter of any pulley which drives the supercharger.

2. Any engine mount is allowed provided it attaches only to the original mounting points, does not relocate the engine (other than incidental to changes in compliance material), and weighs no less than the OE mount. The amount of metal in a replacement bushing may not be increased relative to the amount of metal found in a standard bushing for the particular application. Solid metal bushings are specifically prohibited. All components between the engine and the mounting structure are considered to be part of the mount assembly.

1. Engine “dress-up” items such as chrome dipsticks and non-standard filler caps are permitted, provided they serve no other purpose.

2. Upper engine shields made of plastic material, the purpose of which is to hide mechanical components in the engine compartment, may be removed if they have a solely aesthetic and/or acoustic function.

3. Silicone replacement hoses are permitted as alternate components provided they meet standard parameters with regard to size, shape, location, and performance equivalence.

8. Other

When a car is out of production, or parts are no longer available, you can use aftermarket parts as long as they are as close as possible to the original specs, and are not high-performance parts.

Where a car is out of production and the manufacturer is either out of business, stocks no parts or no longer has a required part, a part of any origin but as similar as possible to the original may be substituted.

1. The entrant must be prepared to show documentary evidence that one of the three circumstances above applies and that the substituted part is as similar as possible under the circumstances.

2. Substitute parts which provide improvements in performance (e.g., superior gearing, lighter weight, better camshaft profile, etc.) are not permitted under this allowance.

9. Sport/Tuner Category - Fuel

Sport and Tuner Categories have the same fuel rules. Fuel has to be federally approved for use on public highways (no racing fuels), and you can only use E85 or the like if your vehicle owner's manual says you can. (That means you can't tune/reflash an ECU a car to run E85.)

You can run propane or natural gas if the setup is safe, and the car only runs on those types of fuels.

1. Sport and Tuner Category vehicles will use fuel which is “Federally approved for use on public highways.” This does not allow racing-type fuels which are available at service station pumps.

2. Fuels comprised of more than 15% ethanol may only be used when specified by the manufacturer for regular road use (e.g., in the owner’s manual for flex-fuel vehicles, not including emergency situations).

3. Propane or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) fuel may be used in any category provided that the following conditions are met:

A. The tank must be located in a safe location on the car and be firmly and securely mounted. This does not permit the cutting of vehicle sheet metal (e.g., the trunk floor) for tank installation.

B. The tank must conform to Federal and local container standards and have an emergency relief/cut-off control.

C. For use of propane or CNG as a fuel, no changes to the induction system of the engine may be made with the exception of the necessary fuel lines to the carburetor or fuel injection. There may also be no other engine parts changed.

D. The entire system must meet local ordinances covering the use and transmission of compressed gas.

E. Propane or CNG may not be used in combination with another fuel.