Most modern engines are controlled by a small computer called an ECU (Engine Control Unit).
The ECU constantly monitors the various sensors on the engine and makes minute adjustments to fuel delivery, ignition timing, boost pressure etc. to ensure efficient running at all times.
The manufacturers software is usually stored on an Eprom (chip) inside the ECU and by modifying it, we can significantly increase both the efficiency and power/torque output of an engine.
In short, they de-tune their engines so they can be sold all over the world yet maintain the level reliability and longevity expected from a modern engine.
In reality, UK cars will never even get close to these extremes and can safely produce much more power and torque without compromising reliability.
This is achieved by remapping the manufacturers software to better suit the conditions here in the UK thus unleashing the true potential of your engine.
How do you get the remapped software into the ECU?
There are three different techniques used to change the software inside a vehicles ECU.
The technique used will depend on the particular type of ECU being modified - we will always use the least intrusive technique possible.
(you can click each one for more information)
Why don’t the manufacturers do
it in the first place?
When writing software, the manufacturers make a lot of compromises to allow for the many different countries in which their vehicles are sold.
They have to allow for extremes in temperature, atmospheric pressure, fuel quality, service intervals etc. to ensure reliable operation and emissions compliance.
What is remapping?
Within the ECU software there are many tables of data or ‘maps’ as they are more commonly known.
The ECU uses these maps as reference when calculating various engine input adjustments.
These maps can be modified to optimise the fuel delivery, ignition timing, boost pressure, torque limiters, smoke limiters, speed limiters etc
This process is known as remapping.
OBD programming
Reading and writing of the ECU software by plugging into the vehicles OBD (On Board Diagnostic) socket or ECU connector.
Debugging
Opening the ECU cover and applying special probes to the circuit board to read and write the software (no chip removal necessary)
Chip change
Opening the ECU and replacing the original Eprom/s (chip/s) which store the ECU software.
