What is ECU Remapping?
ECU remapping, also known as car remapping or chip tuning, is the process of modifying and tweaking the settings of a car’s engine control unit (ECU) to enhance its performance, power, and efficiency based on the owner’s preferences. It involves customising how the engine operates to boost things like the throttle response, give more power and provide you maximum driving enjoyment whilst staying within legal limitations.
How does a car remap work?
A car remap is done with specialised tuning software on a computer which connects to the car’s ECU.
During the remapping process, various parameters of the car’s engine’s operation such as fuel injection, ignition timing, and turbo boost are adjusted to enhance performance. The remap file is customised to suit the specific make and model of the car, as well as any performance upgrades installed.
After writing the new software to the ECU, the car undergoes a test using a rolling road or a dyno test to ensure the effectiveness and safety of the new settings. Sometimes, additional adjustments may need to be made to optimise the performance of the car/vehicle.
How has car remapping changed? A brief history
Chiptuning and ECU remapping used to mean the same thing. Back in the day, tuning meant opening up the ECU and physically swapping a chip. It worked, but it was risky, slow and easy to get wrong.
Modern remapping is far cleaner. We plug into your car’s OBD port, read the software, make the changes and upload the new map. No parts removed, no damage risk. We also keep your original file, so it’s fully reversible.
On newer or heavily protected ECUs, OBD access might be blocked. In these cases, we do a bench remap. We remove the ECU, plug it into our kit on the bench and tune it directly. Still safe, still software only.
Tuning has come a long way. Today’s methods are faster, safer and more precise than ever.
Can all cars be remapped?
For some cars, ECU remapping is not possible, and where this is the case, VIEZU will always try to offer an alternative tuning method, such as a piggy back tuning box. You can see more on these here: V Box Explained.
Are diesel engines worth remapping?
Diesel tuning is also very popular because of how well diesel engines respond to ECU remapping. With our BlueOptimize products, we can offer fuel economy and performance remapping or even a mixture of both.
An effective ECU remap will breathe new life into your diesel car, providing a better throttle response, a more aggressive and sporty acceleration, and increased bhp, all while saving you money on fuel consumption and emissions.
How much does ECU Remapping or Chiptuning cost?
At Viezu, we understand that every customer has different needs and budgets when it comes to engine tuning. That’s why we offer a range of car remap options to suit your specific requirements.
Stage 1 Remap
Our entry-level ‘Stage 1′ remap offers a light reprogramming of your engine’s settings to provide a noticeable boost in performance. Created specifically for an unaltered vehicle without any hardware upgrades, a Stage 1 Remap enhances fuel economy whilst also boosting power and torque. This upgrade eliminates flat spots, offering a more responsive driving experience without sacrificing reliability. This option typically costs a few hundred pounds.
Stage 2 Remap
For those looking for more significant gains, our ‘Stage 2′ remap involves some additional engine modifications such as a new air filter and exhaust improvements. This option is more expensive than Stage 1 but less than Stage 3.
Stage 3 Remap
For those seeking the ultimate in performance, our ‘Stage 3‘ and above remaps are the most serious options available. These involve major engine upgrades such as new turbo systems and internal components like pistons to extract maximum performance from your vehicle. Due to the level of work involved, these options can cost several thousands of pounds.
The benefits of remapping your engine
Increased Power Capabilities
One of the most common changes done during ECU remaps is increasing the power capabilities of the engine, resulting in quicker acceleration and faster top speeds due to a noticeable increase in output.
Improved Responsiveness & Better Fuel Economy
But ECU remapping isn’t just about speed and power; it can also improve the responsiveness of your car and its fuel efficiency by allowing you to reduce the number of gear changes required to overtake and perform other driving situations which require torque and horsepower, but it does require you to perform these correctly.
Customised to your exact needs
At VIEZU, we specialise in ECU tuning and Chip Tuning and offer a range of ECU tuning software to ensure we create the best possible custom remap for you and your vehicle. Our ECU chipping files are custom written for our customer’s exact needs, meaning they aren’t just a generic tuning file but are truly customised to your car, and, most importantly, the driving experience you want.
No physical modifications are needed
ECU Remapping is all about changing software and is therefore a much more convenient and cost-effective way to enhance your vehicle.
Traditionally, if you wanted to increase the power or performance of your vehicle, you would be required to undertake physical modifications, like upgrading the exhaust system, installing a new air intake, or replacing various engine components. These modifications can be very expensive and time-consuming.
The risks & considerations of remapping
An ECU remap is one of the easiest ways to unlock more power and performance, but it needs to be done properly. A poor remap can cause issues, which is why using a specialist matters.
Here’s what you need to know and how we keep things safe and simple at VIEZU.
Insurance and Warranty
You’ll need to tell your insurer. Most count a remap as a modification and your premium might go up. It can also affect your manufacturer warranty.
What we do: All of our car remaps are fully reversible, this means the changes we make aren’t permanent and a car’s remap can be reversed. If you decide to revert back to the original factory settings, it can easily be done. This is beneficial to those who change their mind or want to sell their vehicle. This makes it a low-risk option for those who want to explore the potential of their vehicle’s engine without committing to permanent physical modifications.
We are so confident with our engine remaps that they come with a 30-day, no-quibble, money-back guarantee.
Engine Safety
Factory settings are a compromise to suit all conditions. A remap fine-tunes things for how and where you actually drive. But pushing your engine without proper care can cause problems.
What we do: Every remap we offer is written in-house and custom to your car. We test everything on our 3000bhp dyno to make sure it’s safe and reliable, not just powerful.
Servicing and Software Updates
Dealers can sometimes overwrite your remap during a service.
What we do: If that happens, we can reinstall your file. We keep everything on record and are always here to help.
In short, the biggest risk isn’t the remap. It’s who you trust to do it. We make sure it’s done properly from start to finish
How much does ECU remapping cost in the UK?
At VIEZU, we understand that every customer has different needs and budgets when it comes to engine tuning. That’s why we offer a range of car remap options to suit your specific requirements. For a specific quote based on your requirements, speak to us on live chat or call us on +44 (0)1789 774444.
ECU remapping stages explained (Stage 1, 2 and 3)
Stage 1 Remap
Our entry-level ‘Stage 1′ remap offers a light reprogramming of your engine’s settings to provide a noticeable boost in performance. Created specifically for an unaltered vehicle without any hardware upgrades, a Stage 1 Remap enhances fuel economy whilst also boosting power and torque. This upgrade eliminates flat spots, offering a more responsive driving experience without sacrificing reliability. This option typically costs a few hundred pounds.
Stage 2 Remap
For those looking for more significant gains, our ‘Stage 2′ remap involves some additional engine modifications such as a new air filter and exhaust improvements. This option is more expensive than Stage 1 but less than Stage 3.
Stage 3 Remap
For those seeking the ultimate in performance, our ‘Stage 3‘ and above remaps are the most serious options available. These involve major engine upgrades such as new turbo systems and internal components like pistons to extract maximum performance from your vehicle. Due to the level of work involved, these options can cost several thousands of pounds.
Looking for ECU Remapping?
We are Chip Tuning & ECU remapping specialists, offering both diesel and petrol car ECU tuning and engine remapping. If you’re looking to unlock the full potential of your engine, then a remap or ECU tune is perfect for you.
Our ECU remapping is developed in-house on our Mustang 3000bhp dyno and is custom written to the customer’s needs and requirements. Enter your vehicle details to find out more about the ecu remapping services for your vehicle.
If you are looking for chiptuning for a petrol vehicle or diesel engine remapping then contact us today to see what special treatment, we can offer your vehicle. Our car software upgrade is normally carried out quickly while the customers wait, please call or email us to find the gains for your vehicle.
Too far away from our HQ to get your vehicle remapped? Not a problem! We have a worldwide dealer network of over 600 dealers across 64 countries, which can offer you a quick, convenient and local way to get your vehicle remapped. The dealer will then send your vehicle’s read direct to us, so we can remap your vehicle for your exact requirements. Find your closest dealer.
Car Remapping - Frequently Asked Questions
Will remapping damage my car?
A properly done remap by a trusted expert like VIEZU won’t harm your engine or shorten its life. But if you go with the wrong provider, you’re risking poor performance, potential damage and warranty problems.
Read our article to learn more = Can ECU Remapping Damage Your Car’s Engine?
What is DPF removal?
DPF removal also known as DPF delete is the process of removing the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) from a vehicle’s exhaust system, either by taking it out completely or disabling it electronically. DPF removal is not legal everywhere in the world.
Read more about this controversial matter and important considerations on our diesel tuning page.
How do I know if my used car is remapped?
The most accurate way to check if a used car has been remapped is to plug a diagnostic tool or laptop into the OBD port and compare the ECU settings with the original factory data.
Is it legal to remap your car?
Yes, it is legal and safe to remap your car as long as it’s done correctly by a trained professional.
Will having my car remapped void my warranty?
No, a remap doesn’t automatically void your warranty. That’s a common myth. Just like fitting a tow bar or sound system, a remap is an aftermarket change and doesn’t cancel your cover by default.
That said, manufacturers can reject a claim if they prove a fault was caused by the remap. This is why VIEZU offers insured, guaranteed tuning. If our remap causes a failure in or out of warranty, you’re covered. We also offer free reinstallation for life if your map is lost during a service or part replacement. With VIEZU, your tuning is safe, tested and backed by proper support.
Do I need to tell my insurer if I get my car remapped?
We highly recommend you inform your insurance provider if your car has been modified, as most consider remapping as a car modification, and you will generally see an increase in your insurance premium if you decide to go ahead with remapping your vehicle.
Need more information?
See our FAQ for further information about VIEZU, our ECU remapping services and more!
