ECU Remapping or simply remapping is a process of altering the existing maps in a vehicle. The engine control unit(ECU) is an electronic component responsible for monitoring and regulating the performance of the engine and its related components. There are different sensors attached to a different part of the engine and vehicle, that monitor and send the information to the ECU-the brain of the car. ECU remap is thus a process of alteration in the chip software. The alteration and modification are tailored to car and car owner’s preference. The purpose of ECU remap is to increase the performance, fuel economy, or both. Most vehicle owners opt for remapping to boost the power of their vehicles and to make their driving experience better. If you are planning to get an ECU to remap, make sure you opt for the vauxhall Astra remap. Moreover, make sure you make it clear to the professional carrying out the remapping process your ultimate goal. Because the modifications are carried out with respect to your requirement.
Stages of Remap
There are three main stages or levels of remapping, which includes:
Stage 1 Remap
Stage one of remaps, also known as the Reprogramming level, is the preliminary stage of a remap. It is the initial stage of modification that is carried out to get more economy and power. Also, it is a very simple modification, therefore, it is a cost-effective approach to remapping. Professionals advise carrying out stage 1 remap on turbo petrol and turbo diesel engine cars because they show impressive results after this modification.
Stage 2 Remap
Since stage 2 is the next level to stage 1 ream, it offers a bigger increase in economy, power, and torque. Stage 2 remap is all about finding the weaknesses and tweak the settings to counter these weaknesses that hinder the performance of a car. Therefore, the stage 2 remap removes the flat spots to enable a car to move without any restrictions. We will thoroughly understand more details about the stage 2 remap later in the article.
Stage 3 Remap
Of course, as the levels or stages increase the level of complexity also increases. Stage 3 remap is one of the most complex and time taking remappings that includes changing different parts of the engine, like crankshaft, fuel injectors, fuel pumps etc. However, you must bear in mind that these changes vary from vehicle to vehicle-based on their own technicalities and problems. Stage 3 remap is basically no more about alteration in the software but changes in the hardware of the engine to boost its performance.
What does Stage 2 Remap Involve?
Stage 2 remap is the higher level of remapping than Stage 1, but it offers more power gains and a better economy. Therefore, it requires more work; in fact, this requires expertise and advance tools. It requires much hardware that varies from vehicle to vehicle. However, there are some basic requirements to carry out stage 2 remap on almost all kinds of vehicles.
Performance Intercooler
An intercooler is a cooling device in the vehicle that cools the air that goes into the vehicle’s engine. Turbocharged and supercharged vehicles use an intercooler because the air compression process in them heats the air.
A performance intercooler is installed in a vehicle that undergoes Stage 2 remap. because at this level, when the ECU remap leads to more power, it will create more heat. It is important for an engine to get cool air in this scenario, which can only be obtained from an intercooler.
Aftermarket Exhaust System
An aftermarket exhaust system is another component that is fitted into a vehicle during a Stage 2 remap. An efficient exhaust system helps a vehicle to perform well as it expels the exhaust and offers breathability to the engine. But replacing the stock exhaust with an aftermarket exhaust can enable a vehicle to produce more power. These exhaust systems offer an easy and efficient flow of exhaust, leading to more power.
There can be other changes depending on the vehicle. The thing that you must always keep in mind is that an ordinary remap company is not as reliable as a professional,best remap company.Therefore, make sure you avail of the best company’s services.
Can you go Straight to Stage 2 Remap?
The stages of remapping are not the steps of remapping, therefore you do not need to follow each stage to get a remap done. Instead, the stages of remapping are three kinds of remapping each of which offers different kinds of modifications to enhance power and economy. Most drivers start from stage 1 and move to stage 2; however, that is not a hard and fast rule. You do not necessarily need to get the stage 1 remap to get a stage 2 remap. As the stages go higher, the complexity and the modifications that the process offer becomes more. Stage 2 remap is a kind of remap which enables a vehicle to produce more power than stage 1. Stage 1 is a very simple remapping process, therefore it costs less than stage 2. But if you can send some additional money to get more power, you should get Stage 2 remap. The thing that you need to bear in mind again is that: you can directly get Stage 2 remap without getting Stage 1 remap in the first place.
What is the Difference Between Stage 1 Remap and Stage 2 Remap?
Stage 1 Remap
Modifications
For a stage 1 remap, you will go to the professional, and he will connect the car to a laptop and tweak the settings of the Engine Control Unit through software. In this way, the limits on different parameters that restrict the optimal performance of the car are removed. And that is it. So, Stage 1 remap consists of the file remap and other upgrades. Some of the modifications included in Stage 1 remap include: tweaking the settings related to fuel pressure and panel air filters etc.
Note: For any kind of remapping be it stage 1,2, or three, you are bound to take permission from the vehicles insurance company. Otherwise, it may lead to an increase in insurance premiums or the cancellation of the insurance.
Cost
Being the simplest modification, Stage 1 remap is the most cost-effective approach to gaining more power and economy. Many drivers opt for this modification mainly for the reason that they have to spend less money for performance improvement and better drivability.
Importance
The turbo-diesel and turbo-petrol cars garner impressive results due to this stage of alteration. Stage 1 remap mainly triggers fuel specifications to boost power. It also removes flat spots without compromising any standard safety standards. It is a more reliable method than other remaps because all the stock safety parameters are kept the same as per prescribed safety standards. The parameters that remain unchanged include exhaust system, air box, intake, intercooler and catalytic convertor.
Stage 2 Remap
Modifications
Like Stage 1 remap, the stage 2 remap is also carried out by reading and modifying the engine control unit; however, it requires some hardware along with it. Though there is no fixed hardware for every Stage 2 remap as the requirement changes from vehicle to vehicle, some of the common hardware required include an aftermarket exhaust system and a performance intercooler system. For all Stage 2 remaps, an aftermarket exhaust system is a mandatory fixture. Stage 2 can also follow a DIY fit, but it requires more skilful technicians compared to Stage 1.
Cost
Since Stage 2 remap includes more modification both in software and hardware, it is costly than Stage 1. However, the price is worth it because it offers greater power and economic gains.
Importance
Stage 2 remap is one of the most favourable modifications for a vehicle. It is because it lies in the mid of Stage 1 and 3; it means that you will not regret getting small lower gains after getting stage 1 remap and will not worry if you do not want to take a risk of stage 3 to remap. Stage 2 offers a balance of modifications necessary for the vehicle. But always take the guidance from the best remap company in this regard, as they will help you make the best decision.
What do you Need for a Stage 2 Remap?
Stage 2 remap needs some hardware that stage 1 remap does not require. But it must be kept in mind that the need for hardware changes from one vehicle to the other. However, some of the most common hardware that are required to carry out a stage 2 remap are:
Aftermarket Exhaust System
an aftermarket exhaust system is an essential component to replace the stock exhaust system. Many types of aftermarket exhaust systems are designed to perform efficiently and lead to more power production. You would mainly require a full turbo-back exhaust with a high flow air intake.
How Much does Stage 2 Remap Cost?
On average, the cost of a good stage 2 remap ranges from £200 to £400. You must never risk your vehicle by giving it to unsafe hands for a remap. Therefore, you must make sure to avail yourself of the services of the best remap company.
