What Do The Different Stages In Car Tuning Mean? (2024)

FAQs

What Do The Different Stages In Car Tuning Mean? ›

Stage Tuning Explained

A Stage 1 Tune simply refers to an ECU remap or ECU tune. As this is the initial stage of the tuning process, its typically the most affordable out of the three stages and requires minimal mechanical modifications. Although it's the first stage, an ECU tune can commonly see 20%-40% increase in BHP and torque.

Stage 4 tuning:

But at the least, it is in this stage of tuning where an upgraded turbocharger or supercharger like a hybrid turbo is installed. Also, along with this, most remapping companies also get installed a ported and enlargd wastegate and a re-circulating dump valve.

Stage 5: this would be a custom high compression big bore combination. It includes comprehensive headwork and aggressive cam. Requires larger throttle body & injectors as well as additional supportive mods. Would be considered fuel & tune sensitive.

A Stage 1 remap is a popular choice for car enthusiasts looking to improve the performance of their vehicles without extensive modifications. When performed by a reputable tuner with care and precision, Stage 1 remapping can be safe and yield impressive results, enhancing power and drivability.

Stage 2 tuning can look different across varying vehicle models. At this level, the focus is usually to improve on the limitations set by the manufacturer. To achieve this, tuners will usually remove limiting parts of the exhaust and replace them with performance alternatives.

A stage 3 remap is the most extreme form of engine tuning, and it should only be carried out by experienced professionals. Stage 3 remaps involve significant modifications to the engine, turbocharger, and intercooler, and they can result in power gains of over 50%.

If this work is done by a professional and experienced tuner and the changes to the tables are within the safe range of the engine and the ECU, stage 1 or even stages 2 and 3 remapping will not harm the engine."

Typically, a stage 3 tune can result in a horsepower increase of anywhere from 20% to 40% over the stock figures. For some cars, this might mean an additional 50 HP, while for others, it could mean an increase of 100 HP or more. The starting horsepower of the vehicle plays a significant role.

The biggest difference between a stage 2 and stage 1 remap is the power output. A stage 2 remap can provide up to a 30% – 50% increase in power over the factory settings, while a stage 1 typically provides around 15-20% increase in power.

Is Stage 2 tuning safe? ›

Yes, a Stage 2 remap is a safe and reliable tuning option when performed by a reputable and experienced tuning workshop. Our technicians are fully trained and certified to perform remaps safely and professionally, and we always prioritize the health and longevity of your engine.

As a result, the cost of a Stage 3 upgrade is typically higher, ranging from $3,000 to $7,000 or more, depending on the extent of the modifications and whether additional upgrades, such as high-performance throttle bodies or exhaust systems, are included.

Think of it as a Comprehensive Tune Up

It's called Stage 0 because performance modification levels are Stage 1, Stage 2, etc. Typically it goes up to Stage 3, and 1-3 can come in kits that include a bigger turbo, a chip tune, and a performance exhaust, for example.

A stage 1 remap could cost between £200 and £400. A stage 2 remap could cost upwards of £550, while the higher stages of remapping and reconfiguring your engine could cost closer to £1,000. Having your car tested on a rolling road to check the results of remapping will typically cost extra too.

Stage 2 tunings are more refined than stage 1 tunings. The difficulty comes from the fact that each "stage" might mean different things to different vehicles and even different tuners. Stage 3 tuning on a turbocharged Audi may differ significantly from stage 3 tuning on a typically driven Skoda, depending on the tuner.

The APR Stage 1 ECU Upgrade is the first step towards tuning your engine. It produces up to 290-337 HP and 320-375 FT-LBS of torque.

Better acceleration and top speed. Increased towing capacity. Better engine longevity. It's cheaper than a stage 2 & stage 3 remap.

A stage 1 remap could cost between £200 and £400. A stage 2 remap could cost upwards of £550, while the higher stages of remapping and reconfiguring your engine could cost closer to £1,000. Having your car tested on a rolling road to check the results of remapping will typically cost extra too.

It will give you better gas mileage as long as you drive it like a nice daily driver. Not a lot maybe 3-4 added mpg.