How to Tune & Modify Engine Management Systems
The cars computer is the brain of the automobile. By altering the parameters you can gain significant performance with out so much as getting any grease on your hands!
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Instructions
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Ok first thing here is that their really is no steps, but rather options. Some of the modifications really need to be done by a pro. Most people including myself and all the shops I worked for did not have the computer equipment to alter a Electronic Control Module. There are shops that specialize in this sort of service. Now reprograming the computer can get costly and may require some parts changing ( map sensors and such ). You may want to check into this before you do it to see if it is permanent. Do you want to alter a car and it's performance and emissions? Will you keep the car to enjoy this? Will the car still be street legal? This is more of a long term option and might come with some restrictions. Give it some thought.
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Another option is to buy a preprogrammed ECM (electronic control module). There are after market companies that can load the parameters for your car so you can swap the computers out. This is nice due to the long term but it can be altered to stock if needed. This is great for newer cars so the warranty will not be void. Altering the computer will void the warranty but it might be hard to tell if the stock ECM is still installed. This option again may also call for upgraded parts to accommodate the new parameters. I would more recommend this option than the first due to the versatility.
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The 3rd option is a ECM modifier chip. These are small chips that are attached to the stock ECM and it alters parameters to gain the performance. The gain may not be as significant as a after market ECM but is is generally cheaper and should not alter the emissions as well as the warranty. They are generally easier to install and pretty easy to find. These are great for people who build a car and tend to get tired of it or race and stand a chance of damaging a car. There may be other options but none as well known and as reliable.
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Tips & Warnings
All of these upgrades will cost some money, some more than others. Cost vs. gain needs to be evaluated. It may actually be a better idea to add other upgrades to increase performance.
Remember that reprograming your ECM mean it would have to be again reprogramed to be returned to stock. Take careful thought in your situation to make the best choice.
Try not to buy used or open box ECMs, you have no idea what your getting. try to stay with new and from a reputable company so you don't get taken for your money.
Keep in mind that these upgrades can void your cars warranty.
