Chip Vs. Programmer

[xxxBlakexxx]

For those who are interested in purchasing a chip or a programmer and are not sure which way to go, I thought I would put some useful info together. This way, you can answer the question: "which option is best for me?"

CHIP:

Installation: A chip is manually installed into the car's ECU. I personally think it is a pain in the arse as it is time consuming and difficult to clean the ECU terminals. Give yourself 60 - 120 minutes especially if it is your first time. (DISADVANTAGE)

Warrenty: As soon as the chip is installed, say goodbye to the warrenty (if you care). While the chip does not set-off a buzzer, as soon as Ford figures out that it is there or WAS there, most warrenty repairs will be voided. (DISADVANTAGE)

Results: Depends on programmer where the chip was purchased. Chips lack a code reader function. (DISADVANTAGE)

Multiple tunes: Chips can generally have one, two, three, or four programs. Chips with multiple programs will have a switch associated with them. This might allow the user to have a performance tune, 87 octane tune, and a nitrous tune as an example. Chips with more tunes, cost more money.(SAME)

Cost: $200 - $500 depending on the number of tunes, brand used, and retailer. (SAME)

Ability to reprogram: Chips can easily be reburned as a car is modified. However, the chip must be removed and generally mailed to the retailer. This results in delays and you will nopt be able to have the tune to use while you are waiting. This can take a few days to many weeks depending on backlog and difficulty of tune required. In some cases, you can burn the chip yourself with an emailed tune or one downloaded from the internet if you have the right hardware. This adds to cost (DISADVANTAGE).

Ability to switch between tunes on the car: A multiple tune chip can be changed in seconds simply by switching the position of the toggle switch. However, the car must be off and then restarted. This is very convenient. (ADVANTAGE)

Emissions: If the car is equipped with an obd scan for emissions, it will most likely fail (DISADVANTAGE).


PROGRAMMER:

Installation: None required, per se. The programmer is simply attached to a port connection on the driver side below the steering column. The programmer is plugged in, and the tune is downloaded from the programmer to the car in about 3 minutes. Caution is needed, since if the programmer is interrupted while downloading (cable gets pulled), then the car is out of service until the programmer can be returned to the retailer. Also, the correct fuel system fuse MUST be pulled before programming. This is an added, but simple step, but can be a huge problem if you forget to do it. (ADVANTAGE)

Warrenty: Since there is no chip, the programmer will store the stock tune when the performance tune is downloaded. This allows the stock tune to be returned to the car when needed. This can be done before warrenty service. There is no evidence that the car was ever re-programmed, so warrenty problems can be avoided.(ADVANTAGE)

Results: Depends on program. However, these devices also double as a code reader which is a useful feature.(ADVANTAGE)

Multiple Tunes: Simple programmers will have one tune. Some (like SCT) can store 4 tunes including stock.(SAME)

Cost: $350 - $425 (SAME)

Ability to re-program: Programmers can be mailed back to the retailer to have tunes changed for different mods. While doing this, you can still drive the car with the performance tune. This feature can avoid a lot of downtime in certain situations. Also, tunes can be emailed to the customer. This si a very simple process and only requires about a $75 expense for additional hardware.(ADVATAGE)

Ability to switch between tunes on the car: This is a simple function, but can not be done at a stoplight like with a chip. Task takes about 3-4 minutes total.(DISADVANTAGE)

Emissions: If car is equipped with obd scan for emissions, it will still pass even with 02 sensors turned-off if o/r x pipe is in place. (ADVANTAGE)

As you can see, programmers generally are better, however, if you need to change tunes a lot especially while at the track, a multiple program chip may be the way to go.

I hope this is useful.