The Advantages And Disadvantages Of Engine Chip Tuning
Engine chip tuning is a process in which the software running the engine of a vehicle is redone to enable increased performance out of the engine. However, because this process is fairly invasive and significantly changes the operation of your vehicle, it carries a number of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding what engine chip tuning fully entails can help you decide if it is the right choice for your vehicle or not.
Advantages of Engine Chip Tuning
Increased Performance: Engine chip tuning can be done to remove limits that are placed on your engine by the manufacturer. This can result in a variety of different results, depending on how you modify the chip. You can gain greater horsepower, and thus a greater top speed and a faster rate of acceleration, or you can prioritize fuel efficiency, helping you save money at the pump over time.
Ease of Installation: Unlike performance parts, engine chip tuning is done with a single chip. This means that a mechanic can provide the service to you very easily and quickly, with very little manual labor. Not only does this result in a quicker installation time, it can help save you money on the installation process itself.
Disadvantages of Engine Chip Tuning
Engine Stress: Because it removes the limits that the manufacturer has placed on the engine, tuning your engine chip can result in a greater amount of stress on the engine. Over time, this can lead to greater amounts of wear and tear and increases the risk of something becoming damaged within the engine, which can be extremely expensive to replace. Additionally, even if the engine does not become damaged, increased horsepower and greater engine stress also places greater stress on other parts of your vehicle, such as the air filter or coolant system, which can result in a greater amount of maintenance.
Warranties: Directly related to the above point, having your engine chip tuned can cause problems for any warranties you may hold on your vehicle or engine. However, this largely depends on the manufacturer and model of car and whether or not you get the process done with an accredited mechanic. This is because the limits that the manufacturer has placed on the engine are designed to ensure a safe driving experience that won't damage the engine. Check your owner's manual or call a mechanic or dealership to find out if tuning your engine chip could pose any problems.