Key takeaways Chiptuning changes the engine software to get more performance without changing hardware. Results vary by car, engine and tuner, so expectations should be realistic. Know the costs, risks, warranty and legal points before you start. Choose a reputable workshop and keep the original software saved. Chiptuning is one of the most popular ways to get more performance from a car without changing the engine. Here is a simple guide to what it really involves. What is chiptuning? Every modern car has an engine control unit (ECU), a small computer that controls fuel, air, ignition timing and, in turbo engines, boost pressure. Chiptuning, today more often called an ECU remap, means changing the software settings in that computer so the engine delivers more power or torque. The name comes from older cars, where a physical chip was swapped. Today the software is usually rewritten through the car’s diagnostic port. How does it work? Manufacturers set conservative values so on...
Chiptuning and ECU remap guides: how it works, what you can gain, the risks and how to choose a good tuner.