In modern vehicles, majority of them comes with a computer that manages the variables of the engine and other mechanical components. ECU (Engine Control Unit) is the core of how the engine runs, which acts as the brain of the engine. Adjustments to different variables of the engine is directly related to the engines performance, fuel efficiency, and also emissions. Engine manufacturers typically use a conservative ECU map that is well balanced, in order to prolong longevity of the engine by accommodating to situations such as poor upkeep (maintenance) and low quality fuel. Vehicles with modified ECU maps are likely subject to shorter service intervals and requiring higher octane fuel due to the engine’s performance increases.
What really happens with ECU Tuning?
By changing the parameters of the variables within the ECU, different outputs can be achieved as it is very customizable. Most car enthusiast are looking for the one thing: power gains. To enhanced performance, mainly power, changing parameters such as ignition timing, turbo/super chargers pressure, fuel and air mixture etc. will increase the engine’s output. As mentioned before, manufacturers do not push the engine to the full limits as a way to prolong lifetime of the engine. However, modifying the ECU map does not necessarily mean reduction in reliability and engine life.
Advantages of ECU Tuning
Since altering the parameters within the controllers are very customizable, there are multiple gains and optimizations that could be done:
- Engine’s power & torque gains
- Fuel efficiency
- Raising RPM limits
- Removing Speed limiter
- Advancing shift points
- Throttle percentages
- Exhaust tone and burble options (when available)
…and many more
Although there are many upsides to ECU modifications, It is important for find a ECU tuner that is well experienced in this field as modifying ECU maps is not a simple task. Configuring parameters incorrectly may result in damages to the engine and other components of the vehicle.
Speed Projects Lab / ECU Tuning Group (Vancouver)
At Speed Projects Lab we are Vancouver’s designated location for ECU Tuning Group (@ETGVancouver) for over 7 years now and counting. Over the years working with ETG, we have tuned numerous vehicles and had nothing but positive feedback. It has also enabled us to know the team down at their head office (in California) by first name basis and their personal contact information. It is important to have these kind of relationship because when it comes to troubleshooting, we know exactly who did the file and how to reach them for immediate response. Tuning ECU is unlike installing hardware on a part where if you have forgotten to tighten a screw, you can most likely go back and tighten it back up without much trouble. If a line of coding is missing or written wrongly into the ECU parameters, your vehicle may not start completely which may be frightening to most people. We have extensive technical support and recovery solutions with various tuning tool platforms to prevent any tuning hiccups. We are also well equipped with tuning and factory diagnostic tools (ISTA+D, PIWIS, VAGCOM, VCDS, Xentry, etc.) to resolve problems if they do arise. All in all, with every vehicle that we deem ready for delivery to our client, it will be error free and operational. ECU Tuning Group also offer limited life time ownership warranty with our tuning services.
Makes that ETG specialize in: Alfa Romeo, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Bugatti, Ferrari, Ford, Jaguar, Lamborghini, Land Rover / Range Rover, Maserati, McLaren, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Rolls Royce, Volkswagen, Volvo
Aside from ETG Vancouver, we are also authorized dealers for other performance brands like Weistec, Renntech, and Pro Tuning Freaks.
