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Car Tuning Software: Top 2020 Collection Is Here (Reviewed)
Car Tuning Software: Top 2020 Collection Is Here (Reviewed)
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If you’re looking for the best car tuning software, this is the right place
Now that mechanics have access to the best car tuning/programming software, the days of chip
tuning are over. Modifying a vehicle’s ECU no longer requires you to go into the engine and
manually solder the chip. Instead, you can use software to reprogram it, a much faster and less
intrusive way to go about it.
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Tuning means different things to different people. For some, it involves upgrading hardware in the
intake system or fuel system. Others do more of the adjustments electronically, customizing the
settings in the vehicle computer to maximize performance.
Whatever tuning means to you, you’ll need ECU tuning software to get the job done. Let’s take a
closer look at the 10 best options so you can find the right one for you.
Manual ECU
mapping ✔ ✔ ✔
Automatic ECU
mapping ✔ ✔ ✔
Live tuning ✔ ✔ ✔
3D Tuning ✔ ✔ ✔
Supports Gasoline
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Vehicles ✔ ✔ ✔
Supports Diesel
Vehicles ✔ ✔ --
Check Price
Let’s get to know what is car tuning and what you can do with car tuning software before reading
the reviews!!
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In a modern vehicle, many aspects of the engine’s performance are controlled electronically
through the engine control unit (ECU), also called the PCM (powertrain control module) or PCU
(powertrain control unit). Because of this, tuning is predominantly a software-based process,
though it may also involve upgrading or replacing mechanical components of the engine, as well.
Vehicles are tuned at the factory to satisfy the needs of the majority of drivers. Typically the
emphasis for engines tuned at the factory is on maximizing safety and user comfort, as well as
limiting harmful emissions. These settings often come at the sacrifice of overall power and
performance.
Tuning has traditionally been associated with racing, allowing drivers to push their engines harder
than would otherwise be possible. That said, the popularity of tuning has expanded in recent years,
and many people who get their engines tuned have no interest in racing. With the expanded culture
of car modification, the term has also come to include more cosmetic alterations, such as low-
riding vehicles.
With that in mind, let’s look at the most common areas that are modified during tuning.
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Fuel system. This is the main area modified during performance tuning. Both the ignition timing
and the amount of fuel injected can be modified to provide more power from the engine.
Alterations can also be made to ensure your car is achieving the right air-to-fuel ratio.
Intake and exhaust system. Improving the cold air intake system or upgrading to a high-
performance catback exhaust can increase the engine’s horsepower. These upgrades usually
involve installing new components, such as a dual exhaust, in addition to chip tuning.
Transmission and gearbox. “Short-shift” modifications are one popular tuning option. This reduces
the amount of time between gear shifts, increasing your acceleration. These modifications can
improve horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency.
Suspension. Modifying the springs, anti-roll bars, shock absorbers, and other suspension
components changes how your vehicle handles on rough roads. This can improve the handling and
response of the vehicle, especially when you’re going around corners.
Tires. Changing the size of the tires affects how the car handles and changes the distance
between the undercarriage and the road. Many tire replacements are made to customize the car to
specific driving conditions, such as wintery weather or off-roading.
Sound system. Not all tuning involves the engine. One of the most common areas modified in
vehicles is the audio system. Stock speakers and sound systems aren’t known for their sound
quality and volume output. Adding subwoofers, amplifiers, or new speakers to your car can fix this
common lack.
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Best Car Tuning Software Software 2020 Review
1. TOAD Pro Auto Tuning Software
4.7 / 5
Check Price
Both professional mechanics and home enthusiasts can make great use of the TOAD Pro software.
It strikes an excellent balance between functionality and usability. While you can perform in-depth
diagnostics using this software, it also allows you to tune and customize your engine. In other
words, TOAD Pro gives you complete control over your vehicle’s health and performance.
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TOAD stands for “Total OBD Auto Diagnostics,” and that’s an apt description of what you’ll get with
this software. You can read trouble codes from the engine and transmission, along with performing
emissions tests and viewing data from all 10 OBD2 modes. It also supports all-system diagnostics
for 8 manufacturers, including Volkswagen, Ford, Audi, and Mazda.
What’s really impressive about TOAD Pro, though, is that it allows you to edit ECU data, as well. This
means you can both analyze and adjust your horsepower, torque, fuel efficiency, and other
important metrics.
We also love how easy TOAD Pro is to use. While the wealth of options can still be overwhelming
for a DIY novice, the customizable graphs and dashboards make it easy to get the exact data you’re
looking for. It’s also convenient that you can order it with the adapter included, making it a great all
in one diagnostic package.
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You can also use TOAD Pro for an array of special functions.
Credit: totalcardiagnostics.com
PROS
Read and clear codes from engine and transmission on any vehicle
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Supports chip tuning to optimize performance and fuel economy
Provides in-depth diagnostic reports
OBD2 Programming
CONS
TOAD Pro provides users with complete diagnostics, even beyond OBD2. The inclusion of tuning
and optimization features makes it one of the most powerful pieces of car tuning software on the
market.
Check Price
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any ECU.
The Vehicle List and Protocol list in the main window of Viezu K-Suite are helpful references. Use
the Protocol List to see all the information you need about the ECU, along with what accessories
you’ll need to tune it. The Viezu K-Suite Vehicle List shows all vehicles supported and makes
specific tuning suggestions.
The KESS program that comes included in the Viezu K-Suite is one of the most comprehensive
pieces of remapping software you’ll find, though it’s a bit tricky to use. The K-Suite also includes K-
TAG, which uses guided programming that’s easier to use. By far, this is the best option if you’re
looking for a combination of usability and functionality.
PROS
CONS
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Requires Windows (no Apple compatibility)
The Viezu K-Suite software is feature-rich with wide vehicle and protocol compatibility, making it a
great option for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Read more: Best OBD2 Software for Laptop/PC 2020 Review and Comparison
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PercisionCodeWorks is the best car tuning software if you lack the time or knowledge to code the
computer yourself.
PrecisionCodeWorks simplifies and automates the ECU remapping process. It’s the best car tuning
software if you lack the time or knowledge to code the computer yourself. Simply read and upload
the original ECU file, select which modifications you want to make, and PrecisionCodeWorks will
send you a new build in a matter of seconds.
One downside of PrecisionCodeWorks is that it works on a credit system. Each new build costs
credits, so it’s not the most cost-effective system if you’ll be working with multiple vehicles. You’re
also limited to the build options PrecisionCodeWorks offers—it doesn’t give you the freedom to
manipulate the tables yourself.
Overall, this is a better choice for hobbyists than professionals. PrecisionCodeWorks gives you less
freedom, but there’s also less worry that you’ll mess up the ECU.
PROS
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Wiki database and protocol lookup
CONS
PrecisionCodeWorks is a great option for hobbyists, taking the guess-work out of ECU tuning. The
credit system makes it more expensive for mechanics who need multiple builds.
4. MTune PC-Software
The MTune PC Software was designed by engineers frustrated with the complicated interface of
most ECU remapping software. It keeps the main interface simple and streamlined, saving more
advanced functions for side menus. This speeds things up for professionals and makes it easier to
learn for beginners.
MTune offers a local autotune function. It also supports live tuning, and gives users a one-click
option for accessing real-time data. The advanced features go beyond what you’ll find on most ECU
tuning software, with flexible output functions that support more systems.
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Not all features are supported for all vehicles and protocols. Check their website if you want to
make sure your vehicle is on the list. This MTune PC-Software is also only available for Windows 7
and 10 systems, though they do offer an MDash Android app for non-Windows users.
PROS
CONS
MTune PC-Software is a versatile and feature-rich ECU remapping program. Though its available
features vary between manufacturers, it’s an overall comprehensive way to retune most vehicles.
The best thing about EcuTek is that it’s fast and efficient. For some vehicles, you can complete the
reprogramming in less than a minute. Having said that, this is a program designed for
professionals, and the interface assumes a certain level of knowledge. Beginners may find
navigating this software confusing.
This is the best car tuning software for optimizing engine performance after you make
modifications. All of the maps are based on the OEM reading, so you don’t have to worry about any
compatibility issues. It also retains all safety features of modified parameters, limiting your chance
to cause unintended damage.
PROS
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CONS
The EcuTek Tuning Suites are designed for professional tuners. While the software is powerful and
fairly intuitive, it’s not the ideal choice for hobbyists unfamiliar with engine coding.
Having said that, few programs offer control over remapping the ECU that you’ll get from KESSv2.
This is an updated version of KESS over what’s available in the K-Suite above, and it shows in the
functionality. It offers the most comprehensive range of ECU customization of any car tuning
software on the market.
The support available for KESSv2 is worth mentioning, as well. Their database is updated daily, and
they frequently add vehicles to their compatible list. Reading and writing the ECU is quick and easy
using KESSv2.
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PROS
CONS
KESSv2 is the best car tuning software if you want complete control over remapping and tuning
your vehicle, though it may be too complicated and overwhelming for inexperienced users.
7. K-TAG Slave
Here’s another great option from Alien Tech. K-TAG Slave is a tool you can use to safely customize
any aspect of your ECU. It gives you full access to the ECU but keeps things safe by guiding the
programming.
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From the user perspective, K-TAG is incredibly easy. Just read the original, get the custom-mapped
modification, then write it back into your ECU. Now the downside of this is you’ll have to pay for
each modification you make. That can add up if you work with a lot of vehicles.
K-TAG Slave also offers broad compatibility. The updated vehicle list lets it work with all major
brands—more than 90,000 vehicles in all. It’s also very efficient, letting you quickly make whatever
modifications you need without a worry.
PROS
CONS
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K-TAG Slave enables you to easily and quickly create custom ECU maps for more than 90,000
vehicles. It gives safe, full access to the ECU for risk-free modifications.
8. Q-Tuning
Quantum Tuning is a global brand for chip tuning, with dealers in 83 countries around the world.
Their remapping programs include options for RVs and large trucks along with passenger cars,
vans, and trucks.
The Q-Tuning software is a great choice for garages that want to offer retuning for a wider range of
vehicles. It gives you three remapping options. Quantum Green improves performance of diesel
engines, Quantum Blue is developed for hybrid performance, and Quantum Red boosts power and
performance in any gas or diesel engine.
Q-Tuning isn’t your best software option if you want to make independent customizations or view
live or graphic tuning. For quickly optimizing performance, however, it’s a great choice.
PROS
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Optimized maps deliver improved engine performance
CONS
Q-Tuning is the best car tuning software for diesel engines, with multiple remapping options that
can be implemented quickly and safely.
9. DeltaECU
DeltaECU is EcuTek’s software for reprogramming the ECU. It allows for accurate remapping, and is
designed with professionals in mind. Like other advanced programs, professionals will find its use
easy and intuitive, but it’s not the best option for beginners. In fact, you have to be a professional
tuner to get it.
DeltaECU is fast and efficient. With most vehicles, you can reprogram the ECU in two minutes or
less. Tuneable parameters include ignition timing, throttle input, speed limiting, and many more.
DeltaECU also has graphic map views so you can identify issues more quickly.
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DeltaECU puts a world of customization and programming options at your fingertips. There’s a
reason you have to be a professional to use it. This is one of the most powerful pieces of car tuning
software you’ll find.
PROS
CONS
Commercial tuning experience is required to purchase the DeltaECU software, which is a powerful
and comprehensive option for ECU tuning.
Now this isn’t a program that lets you get inside the ECU and customize it yourself. You will be able
to fully customize your remapping, but it’s ultimately written by the Celtic Tuning programmers.
That’s a great thing if you’re less experienced, but does limit its functionality.
The technical support you get from Celtic Tuning is top-notch. You can count on their remaps to
optimize performance, and their tuning services are available for most vehicle brands.
PROS
CONS
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Doesn’t offer live or graphic tuning
Celtic Tuning lets you work with experts to customize any aspect of a vehicle ECU, though it doesn’t
offer the hands-on mapping options of other car tuning software.
One thing to note: Tactrix Software is a work in progress. At the moment, the vehicle support is
limited to Subaru and Mitsubishi. However, the company is working to expand its functions and
improve the software overall, so it’s likely to become more powerful in the future.
At the moment, Tactrix Software is an intriguing option for recoding the ECU, even if its
applications are limited. It certainly has promise to be a powerful tool for tuning and remapping.
PROS
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Supports live tuning
CONS
Tactrix Software is a bit rough around the edges and has limited vehicle compatibility, but it’s an
innovative approach to editing the ECU.
Automotive tuner software. The level of ECU access you need to tune a car requires a
specialized software, like the 10 above.
OBDII adapter. Diagnostic data is transmitted through your vehicle’s OBDII port. An OBD2
adapter lets the software communicate with the ECU for retuning.
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Can I Remap My ECU Myself?
With the right tools, yes. The ECU remapping software programs above grant anyone access to a
vehicle’s ECU. Having said that, though, remapping an ECU is a delicate and complicated process.
It’s not something that’s advised for just any home mechanic to undertake.
You can think of the ECU map as the computer’s instructions to the engine. Hundreds of
parameters are defined in the various tables, dictating the spark timing, air-to-fuel ratio, and other
important engine processes. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you can cause serious and
irreversible damage.
There are vehicle-specific guides online explaining how to best remap the ECU. If you don’t have a
lot of experience with engine coding and programming, it’s advised to download one of these
guides and read through it before you start. Taking the time to know what you’re doing can save
you a lot of money and headaches down the line.
Final Thoughts
A retune can greatly improve your vehicle’s performance. It’s not something for a novice to
undertake. For experienced home mechanics, however, the best car tuning software can save you a
lot of money on a professional ECU remap.
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Software programs that offer custom remapping written by experts are a great way to go if you’re
not confident in your ECU coding skills. This lets you quickly optimize engine performance without
the risk of causing any problems. Best of luck finding the car tuning software that’s right for you!
FAQs
1. Does tuning the engine void my vehicle’s manufacturer’s warranty?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes in many cases. Whatever aspect of your vehicle has been modified
will, in most cases, no longer be covered under warranty after modification. This is the big reason
you want to have your car tuned by a verified professional rather than doing it yourself at home,
unless you’re professionally trained or highly skilled in automotive repair.
The good news is, any parts of the vehicle that haven’t been altered will still be covered. If you tune
the transmission and driveline to enhance performance, for example, the powertrain portion of your
warranty will be voided, but your warranty covering things like the AC or window controls will still be
valid.
Not if it’s done correctly. All vehicles still need to comply by state regulations for emissions and
professional mechanics are aware of these standards. A reputable mechanic will not tune your car
in such a way that it’s illegal to operate in your state.
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3. Will my car go faster after a performance tune?
In many cases yes, though this isn’t the primary goal. Engine tuning is primarily aimed at improving
the torque and response of the engine in its lower and middle speed ranges, giving the car more
“pick-up” so it can go from 0 to 60 more efficiently. Increased maximum speed is often a side-
effect of this boost in torque, as well, though it’s relatively minor, rarely more than 10 miles per hour
faster than its previous maximum speed.
A “remap” is a blanket term used to describe a set of modifications to the ECU and is a popular
form of engine tuning. During a remap, multiple aspects of the engine’s performance are
recalibrated together with the aims of accomplishing a specific goal, most commonly boosting the
output and power.
That depends on what kind of modification you get and the policies in place at your insurance
agency. Some will raise your premium if you retune your engine to improve its output. If you’re
concerned about this, check with your insurance company before you make any modifications to
your vehicle.
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The higher the gear your engine is in, the more efficiently it runs and the less fuel it uses. Tuning
your engine allows you to reach higher gears more quickly, reducing the amount of time you’re in a
gas-guzzling lower gear. This is the main reason tuning your engine can often improve your
vehicle’s MPG.
7. What is detuning?
This is the process of restoring a vehicle to its original factory standards. Basically it means
removing the modifications, or un-doing whatever tuning has been done to it.
Read More: NEXPEAK NX501: I/M Readiness O2 Evap OBD2 Scanner with Mode 6 Review
TIM MILLER
FOUNDER
OBD Advisor
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I’m Tim Miller from Denver, Colorado. I’m the founder of obdadvisor.com, an automotive blog about "Auto
Diagnostic Tools and Repair Guides". My fan page is facebook.com/autozikcom. I've been working as an
automotive mechanic and blogger for over 10 years writing articles to share my experiences and expertise.
Web: https://www.obdadvisor.com
Email: timmiller.mr@gmail.com
FOLLOW ME:
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