Performance Tuning

What is performance tuning?

Performance Tunes are modifications to the manufacturer's vehicle tune data. These modifications are downloaded to the vehicle's Engine Control Unit (ECU) through the on-board diagnostics connector.

What are the benefits of performance tuning?

• Increased power and torque
• Smoother delivery of power
• Increased fuel economy in most diesel applications
• Sharper throttle response
• Faster acceleration
• Reduced number of gear changes
• All upgrades are through the diagnostic connector, meaning that the ECU does not have to be removed and opened up

What does tuning involve?

It is surprisingly quick and simple to carry out a Performance Tune upgrade, with great results for the driver through enhanced performance. Before tuning we undertake a diagnostic report to ensure there are no issues which may affect the performance upgrade. Once completed, the relevant performance tuning software is simply uploaded to the vehicle through the tool via the OBD diagnostic port.

The tuning process itself only takes about an hour and involves the electronic removal and re-installation of a more refined and more enhanced version of the vehicle’s computer programming. As ECUs cannot communicate during the upgrade process, at the end of the upgrade, the fault memory is cleared and rechecked before the newly tuned vehicle hits the road.

Why do vehicle manufacturers limit the output of their engines?

The standard manufacturer tune is a compromise of hundreds of factors. Principally, the manufacturer must ensure a high degree of engine reliability across the worldwide market taking into account factors such as:

• Fuel quality
• Different servicing schedules
• Different operating environments, such as altitude and terrain
• Local legislation with regard to power output and emissions

During testing, manufacturers ‘tweak’ the tunes constantly to achieve individual results for individual tests, thus compromising the overall smoothness of the original tune. As long as the manufacturer’s service schedule is adhered to, there is no reason why this extra power cannot be ‘unlocked’. 

How will the emissions be affected?

All Performance Tunes are tested to ensure that they comply with UK emissions laws.

Is the process reversible?

Yes. In the unlikely event that you require the Performance Tune to be removed, the process can be reversed without any side effects.

Are there any physical changes to the vehicle?

Not usually. Most Performance Tunes are ECM software downloads only. There will be no physical evidence that the engine has been up-rated. The exception to this statement is the BMW Mini Cooper S. We have two different tunes available. The first is diagnostic only, the second has been optimised for a smaller supercharger pulley.

How much does it cost?

With the exception of the Mini Cooper S all of our performance tuning costs are £399 including VAT.