What is Stage Tuning: From Stage 1 to Stage 3?
What is Stage Tuning?
What is Stage Tuning and why did tuning stages come into existence in general, and what is the difference between them? How many stages of ECU tuning exist? This article provides answers to these questions and similar questions.
Stage 1 and Stage 2 Remap:
In simple terms, "Stage Tuning" refers to the different operational levels that exist for remapping. Let's examine these levels, their differences, and the reasons for their existence.
Firstly, Stage 1 remap. Stage 1 remap can be considered synonymous with the general meaning of ECU tuning. In other words, any concept or meaning you have of ECU tuning is actually defining Stage 1 remap; increasing the efficiency of the vehicle and improving its performance by making changes in the ECU maps, which are usually done in the safe zone. This is the definition of Stage 1. It's important to note that in Stage 1 remap, usually no aftermarket parts are added to the vehicle or replaced with other components.
In Stage 2, things get a bit more interesting! You and your tuner come to the conclusion after some time that increasing the efficiency, power, and torque of the car is no longer achievable without adding or removing parts. In other words, you realize that without mechanical modifications, at least with a safe remap, you cannot extract more power from the car! And right at this point, you realize that you need to get involved with aftermarket parts. If you have reached this conclusion, congratulations as this is what Stage 2 remap offers you!
Stage 2 remap involves installing lightweight aftermarket parts such as headers and downpipes that focus on improving the air intake and exhaust system of the car. Removing the second oxygen sensor or “Decat” is also part of this Stage 2.
It's better to have the Stage 2 remap done on a dynamometer machine as it increases the accuracy of the remap, but it's not necessarily essential for this process.
Stage 3 Remap:
If you feel that the power and torque output from a Stage 2 remap still doesn't satisfy you, if you believe that no one on the street is impressed by the sound of your car, you need a Stage 3 remap! In Stage 3 remap, there is a need to install heavier aftermarket components and make much more precise and internal changes such as valve diameters or various types of fine and coarse tuning tweaks even on the engine. Due to the range of changes involved, the possibility of any error occurring in a Stage 3 remap increases, so it is essential that this work is done on a dynamometer machine for precise measurement of influential parameters.
It's important to note that in a Stage 3 remap, it's not just about buying and installing fancy and expensive equipment; what matters is that the parts you've purchased are set up correctly and that the "static and mechanical coupling" of the car is adhered to. Proper execution of these tasks requires precise calculations and a high level of knowledge in remapping and mechanical engineering. Therefore, if you intend to do a Stage 3 remap, pay attention to the selection of individuals and suitable components because Stage 2 and especially Stage 3 remaps are a combination of tuning knowledge and ECU tuning expertise.
Usually, in most well-known companies, there are 3 stages for ECU tuning. However, it has been observed that some less renowned companies have mentioned higher stages of remapping such as 4, 5, and even 6, which would only be acceptable if a Honda Civic were to land on the moon's surface after a Stage 6 remap! So, do not take these types of naming too seriously and focus on the "static and mechanical coupling" of your car!
Stage Tuning Prices:
From Stage 1 remap to Stage 3, the price of remapping increases, meaning Stage 1 is the cheapest and Stage 3 is the most expensive. It also does not matter from which company you have obtained your aftermarket parts; the price of Stage 3 is the same with any aftermarket brand. You can check the prices by referring to the NinjaRemap file service.
The best way to contact us and get answers to your questions is via WhatsApp +44 781 8419 058 and email info@ninjaremap.com
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FAQs:
Is pop and bang done on Stage 3?
Pop and bang, burble tune, DSG fart, and similar features are not related to your tuning stage, and you can request them from your tuner at any stage of tuning.
Is pop and bang the same as Stage 4 remap?
No! That is not correct at all! Pop and bang is pop and bang, and stage tuning is stage tuning!
Does the price of pop and bang differ from stage tuning?
This depends on the company you are working with. Some have defined a separate cost for pop and bang, and some have not. This depends on the policy of the company from which you are purchasing the file.
