Honda Civic Si Sound Symposer Delete: How to Remove Fake Engine Noise from the Cabin
That aggressive engine roar you hear when you floor it in your Civic Si? It’s not entirely real—and here’s how to silence the synthetic soundtrack for good.
TL;DR
The Honda Civic Si (and Type R) uses Active Sound Control (ASC) to pipe artificial engine noise into the cabin through the speakers. The easiest way to disable it is to physically disconnect the module located behind the glovebox. This is a simple DIY job that takes about 15-20 minutes with basic tools. While Hondata cannot disable this through ECU tuning, the physical disconnect works perfectly and many owners consider it an essential first modification.
What Is the Sound Symposer System?
Honda calls it many things—Active Sound Control, fake engine noise, or the “alien howl” as some owners describe it. Whatever you name it, the system uses the car’s speakers to pump synthetic engine sounds into the cabin during hard acceleration.
The 11th-gen Civic Si and FL5 Type R both use this system, and it’s especially aggressive in sportier drive modes like +R on the Type R. One owner called it “the most disappointing thing” about their new Type R, describing the sound as “HORRID” and “digital fake”.
The system is designed to make the car feel more exciting from the driver’s seat. But for many enthusiasts, it feels fake and disconnected from what’s actually happening under the hood.
Why Delete It?
- Authenticity: The engine sounds good on its own. Why fake it?
- Reduced cabin noise: Some owners find the fake noise tiring on longer drives
- Better audio experience: Without fake engine noise competing with your music, the sound system sounds cleaner
- Personal preference: Many drivers simply prefer the natural sound of their car
How to Disconnect the Module: Step-by-Step
The most reliable method is to physically disconnect the module. This is the approach recommended by Civic owners who’ve done it successfully.
What You’ll Need
- Flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flashlight (helpful but not required)
- 15-20 minutes of time
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Open the glovebox and empty its contents. You’ll need full access.
- Remove the glovebox by pressing in the side stoppers and letting it drop fully down. Depending on your model year, you may need to disconnect the damper cord on the right side.
- Locate the module. It’s tucked up behind the glovebox area, mounted to the HVAC housing or nearby bracket.
- Identify the correct connector. Look for a wiring harness plug going into a small plastic module. If you’re unsure, search for “Civic Si active sound control module” on YouTube for visual reference.
- Unplug the connector by pressing the release tab and pulling it straight out. No tools needed for this part.
- Secure the loose connector with a zip tie to prevent it from rattling.
- Reinstall the glovebox in reverse order. Make sure the damper is reconnected before closing.
One owner described removing the glove box, side panel, air vent (partially), and lower trim before finding the module—but most find it accessible without removing the vent.
What About Software Solutions?
While some owners have asked Hondata to add a software disable feature via FlashPro, the company has confirmed that this is not possible from the ECU. The physical disconnect remains the only reliable solution.
Important Notes and Warnings
- Individual Mode workaround: Some owners set “Engine Sound” to “Comfort” in Individual mode to minimize the fake noise, though this doesn’t fully disable it
- No warranty concerns: This is a reversible modification that doesn’t affect the engine or drivetrain
- Affects ANC too: Disconnecting the module also disables the Active Noise Cancellation system, which may slightly increase road noise
- Owners approve: One Type R owner called this a “MUST DO mod!” after completing it
Frequently Asked Questions
Does disconnecting the module affect the car’s performance?
No. The module only controls artificial engine noise through the speakers and has zero effect on engine output, fuel economy, or reliability.
Can I just turn down the fake noise in the settings?
No, there’s no factory setting to completely disable it. The Individual mode’s “Engine Sound” setting only reduces it, not eliminates it entirely.
Will this void my warranty?
This is a reversible modification that doesn’t alter the ECU or mechanical components. Dealers shouldn’t deny warranty claims for a simple unplugged module, but always check with your dealer if you’re concerned.
Does the Type R use the same system as the Si?
Yes, the FL5 Civic Type R uses the same Active Sound Control system as the 11th-gen Si, and the same glovebox disconnect method works.
Is there a way to disable it without removing the glovebox?
Some owners have reached the module by removing the lower dash panel and side trim, but the glovebox removal method provides the best access and visibility.
What was your reaction when you first heard the fake engine noise in your Si? Share your experience in the comments below.
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