TUNING F.A.Q.

Traditional chiptuning, as it was known in the 1980s, has evolved considerably. Modern engine optimization no longer involves simply modifying parameters stored on an EPROM chip. Today's engines are controlled by sophisticated electronic control units (ECUs), which coordinate engine performance, efficiency, drivability and compliance with applicable emissions standards. We read the original ECU software, optimize the relevant calibration maps and program the modified data back into the control unit. The more accurate term today is ECU calibration or engine mapping rather than traditional chiptuning.

Manufacturers must ensure that their engines perform reliably under widely varying conditions around the world. An engine must deliver consistent durability in the freezing winters of Sweden as well as the extreme summer heat of Abu Dhabi. Fuel quality, altitude, maintenance intervals and differences in vehicle ownership and usage also influence factory calibration.

Many engines have considerable performance reserves that manufacturers deliberately leave unused. Product positioning, differentiation between model variants and future facelift upgrades can also influence the power output offered from the factory.

Tuning boxes typically manipulate input or output signals between sensors and the engine control unit. Rather than directly optimizing the ECU's internal calibration, they alter the information received by the control system.

This approach provides limited control over the numerous parameters required for a reliable, efficient and consistent performance increase. Internal torque limits, speed restrictions and protective functions cannot necessarily be adjusted accurately through external signal manipulation.

A tuning box may produce a temporary increase in torque before the ECU detects inconsistencies and intervenes through its protective strategies. Consequently, even where peak torque increases, overall performance across the usable engine speed range may be inferior to a properly calibrated ECU.

For these reasons, we recommend professional ECU calibration rather than external tuning boxes.

Every development process begins with a thoroughly tested base calibration that can be installed as a standalone product, particularly when a customer does not request individual dynamometer calibration.

When the order includes dynamometer measurements and individual calibration, we analyze diagnostic data, operating temperatures, pressures, lambda values and other relevant engine parameters. We then adapt the calibration to the specific vehicle and, where appropriate, the customer's requirements.

Our decisions are based on actual measurement data rather than competitors' advertised figures. Reliability, durability and consistent performance take priority over extracting the highest possible horsepower or torque figures.

We provide detailed explanations of our work and place great importance on accurate, transparent performance measurements.

Our development objective is to achieve efficient performance improvements while maintaining the applicable emissions requirements.

Where available for the specific vehicle and tuning configuration, we offer the relevant TÜV documentation and approval reports required for registration.

Compliance with the original emissions classification must be demonstrated through the applicable testing and approval procedures. Whether a particular tuning configuration can retain its emissions classification depends on the vehicle, modification and corresponding approval documentation.

When additional engine performance is used, fuel consumption generally increases because producing more power requires more energy.

However, improving engine efficiency can reduce fuel consumption under comparable driving conditions. Our experience with numerous calibrations, particularly diesel engines, has shown that measurable savings may be possible.

Depending on the engine and driving conditions, we have observed reductions ranging from approximately 0.1 liters per 100 km to considerably larger differences in individual applications. One historical example was an Audi Q7 4.2 V8 TDI, for which we recorded a reduction of up to 7.8 liters per 100 km under the evaluated conditions.

These results cannot be generalized or guaranteed because actual consumption depends heavily on driving style, vehicle condition, traffic and operating conditions.

If fuel efficiency is your primary objective, contact us to discuss a calibration strategy tailored to your requirements.

In Germany, motor vehicle liability insurance premiums are influenced by several factors, including the vehicle's type classification and the insurer's individual tariff structure. An increase in engine power does not automatically result in a higher liability insurance premium.

Comprehensive insurance may be affected because performance modifications can influence the vehicle's value or the insurer's assessment of risk.

You should inform your insurer about the modification and obtain confirmation of any changes to your insurance coverage or premiums. The specific consequences depend on your policy and insurer.

Performance modifications may affect the manufacturer's voluntary warranty, particularly where a defect is related to the modified engine or drivetrain systems.

However, a modification does not automatically eliminate every warranty or statutory consumer right associated with the entire vehicle. Claims involving unrelated components must be assessed separately under the applicable contractual and legal provisions.

For example, an unrelated lighting defect cannot automatically be attributed to an engine performance modification.

We also offer supplementary warranty solutions for selected tuning applications. Contact us to discuss the available coverage and conditions for your vehicle.

Customer satisfaction is one of our primary objectives. Once the calibration is complete, the dynamometer results have been verified and the vehicle has passed our final checks, you can experience the results during a test drive.

We prefer that customers first experience the actual driving characteristics before reviewing the performance figures and diagrams. This allows you to evaluate the improvement without being influenced by horsepower or torque numbers beforehand.

If the agreed performance objective cannot be achieved, we will discuss the available options with you. Where applicable, we can restore the original software from the backup. Any charges for measurements or other services depend on the agreed order conditions.

Routine servicing does not necessarily affect an existing ECU calibration. However, dealerships may perform software updates, diagnostic procedures or control unit replacements that overwrite or otherwise affect the modified software.

This is particularly relevant for certain BMW and Volvo models, although similar situations can occur with other manufacturers.

We recommend contacting us before a scheduled software update or major service. We can explain the vehicle-specific considerations and advise you on the appropriate procedure.

When selling a vehicle with a properly documented and registered performance modification, retaining the tuning may be the most practical option. Removing an approved modification without a clear explanation can create unnecessary questions for potential buyers.

If you prefer to restore the original ECU software before selling your vehicle, we offer a one-time complimentary restoration for eligible software tuning customers.

Simply arrange an appointment with us before advertising your vehicle for sale. Any previous modifications and relevant vehicle information should be disclosed accurately to the buyer.

Have we missed something in our FAQ? Contact us with your questions. We are happy to provide individual advice and may include frequently requested topics in future updates to this section.