What is engine remapping and is it worth it?
There’s no denying engine remapping comes with its doubts and speculation.
While some drivers believe it’s a sure-fire way to enhance power and performance, others worry it causes more harm than good to your vehicle.
So, what’s the answer? Is engine remapping worth the money, or are you sending your vehicle into early retirement?
Let’s find out…
What is engine remapping?
Otherwise known as ‘chipping’ or ‘ECU tuning’, engine remapping is the process of reprogramming your vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) to enhance power and performance.
When your vehicle is manufactured, the ECU is programmed to default settings. This is seen to improve overall reliability and emission output as well as fuel consumption.
However, by limiting output, your vehicle’s potential power and performance capabilities are restricted, putting a cap on your overall driving experience.
But by modifying behaviour through engine remapping, you can boost your vehicle’s brake horsepower (bhp) by as much as 35% – in under two hours.
Of course, we don’t recommend you remap your own engine. It’s always best to book your vehicle for remapping with an approved tuning and remapping centre.
How does engine remapping work?
Engine remapping works by modifying manufacturer default settings and software on your ECU, replacing it with custom software tuned to your performance preferences.
Usually, an engine remap is achieved by accessing your vehicle’s ECU through the serial port or on-board diagnostics (OBD) port. However, some older vehicles – and even newer vehicles with built in component protection – may require the ECU to be manually removed.
Depending on which engine remap you require, we offer three popular packages using Monster Tuning technology.
Monster Green
Entry-level engine remapping designed to return an improved economy in turbo diesel engines.
Monster Orange
A popular remapping option offering a mix of power and economy in virtually all turbo engines.
Monster Black
An individualised car remapping service that releases the full potential of both petrol and diesel engines.
How long does engine remapping take?
Provided your vehicle is fitted with an ODP, a full engine remap can be completed in less than one hour.
However, if a technician needs to remove your ECU manually, the whole process can take up to three hours.
What are the benefits of engine remapping?
You might think the main advantage of an engine remap is to improve speed and power. But there are other lesser-known benefits to consider too.
Improved fuel efficiency
Changing the behaviour of your engine performance can, in turn, change the behaviour of a driver.
Instead of forcing the engine to work harder to reach required performance, it’s often the case you can achieve the same speeds with lower revs and more frequent gear changes.
Affordable performance upgrade
Depending on which garage you use, an engine remap is one of the cheapest ways to improve performance. And the best part is you don’t need to make any physical upgrades.
Better control and drivability
An enhanced engine performance and smoother driving experience will make you feel like you own a new vehicle – all without the eye-watering expense.
How much does engine remapping cost?
An engine remap usually costs between £200 to £400. At C R Allen & Sons, our engine remapping service starts at £250 including VAT and comes with a free engine carbon clean.
If we need to manually remove your ECU, our remapping service starts at £350 including VAT.
We also engine remap HGVs, boats, agricultural and plant machinery with prices starting at £400 including VAT.
FAQs: Engine remapping
Will your vehicle fail an MOT if it’s been remapped?
No. As long as it’s carried out by a qualified technician and stays within legal emission limits.
Does engine remapping increase your insurance premium?
Almost certainly, yes. Failure to declare engine remapping could void your policy.
Can you remap your own vehicle?
We strongly advise you don’t attempt to remap your own vehicle. It’s always best to use a specialist who has the knowledge, software and equipment to complete the job correctly.
What happens if I don’t like the new remap?
Should you want to return your vehicle to its manufacturer settings, we can complete this process for free, provided you return your vehicle to us within 30 days of your Monster remap.
