ECU Remapping and the Inadequate Preparation
Andy Published on Thursday, April 30th, 2015
VIDEO
There is now a multitude of companies that will remap the ECU on your vehicle. In most cases, this entails plugging a computer into the diagnostics port on your vehicle that directly communicates with the ECU. A technician reads the existing file on the ECU and overrides it with a new file. The new file has on it adjusted parameters that alter several characteristics of the engine. These include the amount of turbo boost pressure (if applicable), the fueling and ignition timing (if on a gasoline vehicle), and other such parameters.
After remapping a diesel engine, the exhaust’s smoke increases, particularly on heavy acceleration. Where you once had a small amount of smoke from your exhaust, you now have a problem with a severe amount of smoke. Any underlying running issues can be exacerbated with an engine remap. One thing that surprises me tremendously is that many companies do not carry out a health check. Many remap servicers are mobile; they do not have the necessary tools, equipment, or expertise to precheck the vehicle. As far as I have researched, barely any of them ensure that the fuel system is running correctly and that there isn’t an excess of carbon buildup.
If you push the engine by asking it to work harder and produce more power, you must ensure that you have the best platform to remap and gain that additional performance. To guarantee this, the first thing we advise is to carry out a health check. Make sure there are no error codes. Then combine the remap with a professional fuel system cleaner and carbon remover. The fuel system must be running efficiently before you remap your vehicle. On a petrol engine, it is essential that the ignition components, the ignition system, and the fuel system are performing optimally to maximize the benefits gained from a remap.
Wherever you go to have your vehicle remapped or chipped, ensure the service includes the necessary checks. Also, ensure you use a high-quality fuel system cleaner, particularly if your exhaust has any excess smoke. If you have extra smoke, I strongly advise resolving or checking the issue before performing a remap as it is likely to make it worse.
