ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS, TUNING & ECU REMAPPING

ECU remapping is basically fine tuning the software program that controls your engine management system (ECU). Most reputable companies use bespoke maps that are tailored to your car and your own individual requirements.

Today's modern engines rely heavily on computer controlled engine management systems. Basically each engine has an array of sensors which monitor lots of things such as throttle position, crank position, airflow etc. These signals are sent to the Engine Control Unit (ECU), which processes the information received to give the best engine performance for any given driving condition.

How does remapping provide additional power?
The full power output of modern vehicle engines is not made available for various reasons. On a commercial front this enables manufacturers and garages to up-sell vehicle models which have a higher brake horse power (BHP) output, even though the engine may be identical to the lower BHP model. 
 
On a technical front, manufacturers limit the accessible power within an engine so that the engine complies with emission regulations, can tolerate low-grade fuel and can take into account individuals who fail to service their vehicle at regular intervals.

Remapping a vehicle unlocks its full potential and allows it to perform as was originally designed.

What kind of improvements can I expect?
You will notice an improvement in power and torque right throughout the rev range, along with the possibility of improved fuel economy. See below for a general idea of average improvements for different engine types:

Petrol (non-turbo)
By remapping a normally aspirated engine ECU, you would normally expect to see a 10 - 15% increase in power (bhp) depending on your exact engine specification, and around a 15 - 20% increase in torque (Nm) throughout the rev range. This improves engine response on a lighter throttle.

Petrol (turbo)
By installing a modified engine ECU map on to a turbo engine you would normally expect to achieve around a 20 - 30% increase in power (bhp), with an increase in torque of around 20 - 40% depending on your engine specification. The large increases in both power and torque will greatly improve the engine flexibility in all gears and throughout the rev range.

Diesel (turbo)
Remapping a diesel turbo ECU normally sees the greatest gains of any engine type. Typically you will achieve an increase of 25 - 50% power (bhp) and around a 50 - 75% increase in torque depending on your engine specification. The engine response is greatly improved throughout the whole rev range and in all gears. Diesel engines are well known for providing huge amounts of torque and in gear performance. A remapped modern turbo diesel engine has the ability to embarrass many petrol engine cars under normal driving conditions.

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact us at our garage based in Brackley, Northamptonshire on 01280 706 999.