Stage 1 ECU tuning
More from your car.Start with the right tune.
Explore vehicle-specific power and torque gains with Boston Mechanics. Send your VIN or license plate to find out what is available.
No automatic estimates. Your details are reviewed by our team.
A software upgrade.A different feel behind the wheel.
Chip tuning adjusts the software in your engine’s control unit, often called the ECU. On compatible vehicles, it can change how the engine delivers power and responds to your accelerator.
More power and torque.
Explore the extra performance available for your engine. We check your vehicle before sharing estimated gains.
A more responsive drive.
Depending on the vehicle and calibration, tuning can improve accelerator response and the way power builds when you accelerate.
Planned around your car.
Your engine, fuel, existing modifications and condition guide the recommendation. We explain the options before you decide.
How the software is made
Developed on a dyno.Written for your exact engine.
We don’t use one-size-fits-all files. Each calibration is developed for a specific engine and software version, then tested before it reaches your car.
Dyno developed
Calibrations are built and refined on a dynamometer, where power and torque can be measured under controlled conditions.
Matched to your software
The file is matched to your engine code and control-unit software version, not just the make and model.
Factory safeguards kept
Engine protection such as knock control, temperature limits and other built-in safety strategies stay active.
Original file saved
Your car’s original software is read and kept before anything is changed. Ask us about returning to stock.
Tuning stages, explained
Which stage is right for you?
Most daily drivers start with Stage 1. Higher stages need hardware changes and are quoted per vehicle.
Our main offer
Stage 1 · $900
Software only, on a stock or near-stock car. No new parts required. The best balance of extra power, everyday drivability and cost.
Quoted per vehicle
Stage 2 and beyond
Software designed around upgraded hardware, such as intake, exhaust, intercooler or turbo changes. We’ll talk through the parts and the plan first.
Quoted per vehicle
Transmission (TCU)
On compatible automatic gearboxes, transmission software can be adjusted for quicker shifts and to handle the extra torque.
Before we tune
We check the car, not just the software.
- Stored fault codes and warning lights
- Engine condition and any running concerns
- Existing modifications or previous tuning
- Fuel grade you use day to day
- How you drive the car and what you want from it
From inquiry to installation
Three steps to your next upgrade.
- 01
Send your vehicle details.
Your VIN or plate gets the conversation started. Add fuel grade and modifications if you know them.
- 02
See the possibilities.
We check compatibility and explain estimated power, torque, fuel requirements and the proposed work.
- 03
Choose your appointment.
Once the details and estimate are agreed, arrange your tuning visit with the team.
Reference examples
What Stage 1 can look like.
Typical Stage 1 figures for two well-known engines. These are general reference values for those engines, not measured results from a car we’ve tuned.
Example 01 · Stage 1
Audi A6
3.0 TFSI
- Power (hp)
- 333400+67 hp
- Torque (Nm)
- 440520+80 Nm
About a 20% horsepower increase and an 18% torque increase from Stage 1.
Example 02 · Stage 1
BMW M8 Competition
4.4 V8 Bi-Turbo
- Power (hp)
- 625680+55 hp
- Torque (Nm)
- 750850+100 Nm
A strong torque gain — noticeably harder acceleration and a much stronger pull through the mid-range.
Reference figures for these engines, not measured results from a Boston Mechanics vehicle. Your gains depend on your exact engine, software version, fuel grade, existing modifications and condition — we confirm them for your car before any work.
Your car comes first
Get my tuning gains.
Send us the basics. We’ll review compatibility and get back to you with the next steps.
Estimated gains are vehicle-specific estimates, not measured dyno results or guarantees. You’ll review your inquiry, then send it from your own email app.
Before you decide
Your tuning questions, answered.
Can you tune my car?
Compatibility depends on the exact engine, control unit and software. Send your VIN or license plate and state. We’ll check what is available for your vehicle before arranging the work.
How much horsepower and torque will I gain?
We publish reference examples for some engines so you can see the scale of a Stage 1 change. For your car, we provide vehicle-specific estimates after reviewing your details. Fuel grade, existing modifications and vehicle condition matter. Estimated gains are not a dyno measurement or a guaranteed result.
What does the $900 price cover?
The $900 offer is for Stage 1 ECU tuning on a compatible vehicle. We confirm the scope and total estimate before you approve the work. Ask separately about hardware changes or transmission tuning.
Is tuning suitable for my daily driver?
Tell us how you use the car and about any warning lights, running concerns or existing modifications. We’ll discuss suitability and any checks needed before recommending a tune. Tuning is not a repair for an existing fault.
Which fuel will I need?
Tell us the fuel grade you currently use. We’ll confirm the fuel required for the proposed calibration before you decide to proceed.
How long will I need to leave the car?
Timing depends on the vehicle and the access or checks required. We’ll confirm your appointment window directly; your inquiry does not reserve a slot.
Can I return my car to stock?
Ask us about restoring the original software for your exact vehicle. We’ll confirm the available options and any cost before tuning. Returning to stock should not be treated as a guarantee that previous tuning cannot be detected.
Can a dealership detect Stage 1 tuning?
It can be detected on some vehicles. Manufacturer diagnostic systems may identify modified engine software or signs of tuning. We do not describe Stage 1 as undetectable.
Will tuning affect my warranty?
Tuning can affect coverage for related repairs. Review your vehicle warranty or service contract before proceeding, especially if it still has powertrain coverage. We’ll explain our tuning service terms, but we cannot guarantee a manufacturer or warranty provider will cover a claim.
Do you offer transmission tuning too?
Ask about TCU tuning for your vehicle. Compatibility and pricing are confirmed separately from the Stage 1 ECU offer.
Ready to check your car?
Start with your VIN or license plate. We’ll take it from there.
Let’s talk about your car