Getting the Most From Your Engine Without Getting Your Hands Dirty

Performance chips, programmers and modules have the ability to boost your car or truck’s performance at a fraction of the cost of a major engine upgrade. With a performance chip, there is a much more efficient delivery of fuel to your engine at specified times in the course of driving. The only work requires replacement of the original chip, which involves removing the vehicle’s dash. Even the most unmechanically inclined person could generally do this, or a local mechanic could do this in a jiffy.

All vehicles come with a special computer chip that controls engine output, particularly in the area of fuel delivery. You can add extra horsepower and torque including wheel upsizing, fuel curves, air/fuel ratio, gear selectors and shift points. There are performance programmers for most fuel injected engines including import and domestic cars. Performance chip for trucks include regular and diesel fuel. Some of the most well-known manufacturers include Superchips, Bully Dog, and Edge.


Whether online or at a local auto supply store, be sure you purchase a recognized brand. Research customer’s reviews online and speak with a local mechanic once you narrow down your decision to a few different options. Some low quality performance chips or programmers will increase the amount of fuel your car will use and may even damage the engine and certain parts.

Different vehicles require different mechanisms to increase horsepower and fuel economy so manufacturers create custom performance chip for trucks and cars. A properly programmed chip can boost your engine's response in specific conditions, such as rain or snow, thereby increasing power, torque and gas mileage. When there is more fuel injected into the cylinder on acceleration, there is less "turbo lag." Turbo lag is the time before the turbocharger builds pressure. Lag is between when you hit the accelerator and when the turbo spools up and corrects the air/fuel ratio.