FAQs: Engine remapping

Remapping your engine is thought of as an affordable method of tuning your car.

Though most remaps will focus on increasing your vehicle’s power and efficiency, it’s also possible to improve the efficiency of your engine’s fuel usage with an remap.

Does a remap truly merit the extra cost? This guide can help you determine.

Engine remapping is when the car’s onboard computer (often called the Electronic Control Unit, or ECU) is modified with new software that alters its behavior.

From the factory, the majority of cars will not possess the engine’s full potential performance, even on sports cars. ECUs usually limit the performance of the engine to enhance reliability, emissions , and the amount of fuel consumed.

Your vehicle’s engine could be restricted slightly to make sure it can deliver a good balance of fuel consumption and outright performance under less than ideal conditions for instance, very hot weather (when engines usually produce lower power.)

A remap is typically done to unlock more power from an engine by eliminating the restrictions. Also, it is possible to have a an remap that is focused on increasing the efficiency of your fuel.

What is the process of engine remapping?

A engine remap is carried out by writing a brand new software program onto an engine’s electronic controller (ECU). It is a fairly simple method of tuning, usually performed by plugging an laptop into the vehicle’s OBD port (the same connector that most garages use to diagnose problems with your vehicle should it break down.)

Of course, it’s exactly as easy as downloading the software online and then doing it yourself. It’s necessary to hand over your car over to a certified professional, but some companies will offer DIY services.

This software update will attempt to optimise the engine’s behaviour to improve performance.

What are the advantages of engine mapping?

It’s a low-cost way to boost the performance of your vehicle.

Car remapping prices vary, but it’s one of the cheapest ways of improving your car’s performance.

There is no need to make any physical upgrades

It is not necessary to upgrade any physical aspect of your vehicle in order to gain the benefits of performance from an remap. Actually, it’s reversed. A lot of aftermarket parts require an engine remap in order to make sure they’re operating as smoothly as they could.

It’s (usually) reverse-able

In many cases the remap of a car can be reversed. So, if you decide that you’d prefer to have the original software back on your vehicle, it can be easily done. But, this will not restore the warranty that you’ve voided.
What are the negatives to engine mapping?

It generally invalidates a vehicle’s warranty

Although it’s a simple and invisible way to tune your car however, the majority of warranties for cars can be cancelled when you remap your car. It’s still an alteration of the car after all, which could affect the quality of your engine outside of the control of the manufacturer.

However, there are some variations. For example, Ford worked with specialists Mountune to offer some modifications to the Focus RS without affecting the manufacturer warranty. Make sure to check your documentation, though.

Your insurance premium is likely to rise.

Any kind of performance alteration to your vehicle is likely to result in an increase in your insurance cost. Remaps are a good example and remaps too.

If you do not mention itto your insurer, they could end your policy in the event of an accident . In addition, they might refuse to pay.

It can affect your car’s reliability

Although you’ll experience more power but a remap can put more stress on your engine as well. This can have an adverse impact on the reliability of your car and components may fail sooner than you expected at the time of purchase.

How much does it cost to change the engine’s mapping?

Similar to many performance improvements Remaps can be priced as much or as low as you’re prepared to pay. Most often, remaps come in a variety of’stages’.

The most affordable remaps are usually referred to as”stage 1″ upgrades and typically are just the smallest reprogramming needed for a small performance boost. These typically cost several hundred dollars.

“Stage 2” remaps might require some additional work to the engine, which is usually a new air filter and some exhaust improvements. This will obviously increase the price of the overhaul, and often will close the PS1,000 mark or even surpass it.

“Stage 3 and above are the most significant remaps. They are compatible with major engine upgrades -for instance, new turbo systems and new internal components like pistons -which will extract some serious performance out of a vehicle. Because of this, they could cost thousands of dollars.

FAQs: Engine mapping

Is remapping a safe method of remapping?

Replacing a car will cause more stress to your engine. Although many are quite secure, you’ll have to make sure you keep your car in good condition.

As a general rule the more horsepower you’ll get from a remap, more it’ll affect your car’s reliability.

Can you remap any car?

Modern cars can generally be remapped, but some older models using outdated software can’t.

How much the effects of a new map will be on your car will vary dependent on the model you have and the location you’ve had it altered.

Does remapping affect insurance?

Remapping your vehicle will almost always raise your insurance rates. It is mandatory to declare the change to your insurer too — failing to do this could result in your policy being cancelled.

How do I change the mapping of my vehicle?

A number of dedicated tuning companies provide Remaps. Some specialize in specific models, while others provide various services.

Do not attempt to alter the software of your automobile’s engine by yourself. Unless you’re a skilled technician that knows exactly what you’re doing.