Subject: Turbo Boost Adjustment Question - 2019 Civic X CVT

[zyk888]

I own a 2019 10th-gen Civic CVT and currently run a +6psi tune. I’ve been unsatisfied with low-RPM power delivery, so I increased turbo boost pressure by 8% specifically in the 1900–2500 RPM range.
My questions:

Is this adjustment mechanically safe for the CVT transmission and engine?
Could this cause long-term reliability issues (e.g., premature wear on turbo, CVT belt, or conepulleys)?
Are there hidden risks like knock sensitivity or fuel trim instability?
Appreciate any insights!
— A concerned CVT owner

[zyk888]

"Just to clarify on hardware: I’ve only installed an upgraded intercooler as my sole modification. Everything else remains stock—turbo, fuel system, exhaust (including GPF), and transmission. My car is the China-market version compliant with Euro 6 emissions standards."

[berk]

As unofficial community insight: I would avoid changing any power or boost targets for the CVT if you want long-term reliability. Hondata did post a video about the limits of the transmission here going into it briefly. I also had a buddy with a dyno-tuned 2019 and his CVT went 3 years later (although he used the paddle shifters too aggressively, I would say). I can't personally say anything about specific engine consequences of increasing the boost that far low though.

And just personal opinion: even if you increase the boost target in the 1900-2500 range, could the engine even spool it that much going so slow? The 1.5t only really lights up after 3000 RPM, it's not a big torquey V6/V8. You could maybe look at rolling anti-lag to get it going, but you'll want to be straight pipe, and it has its own list of reliability issues and dangers.

That would be a good improvement to chase though.