The number of pk you gain from chip tuning depends on several factors: the type of engine, whether it is already turbocharged, and how the manufacturer’s software is calibrated. In practice, the gains range from around 5 pk to as much as 100+ pk, depending on the engine type and the chosen tuning stage.
turbo = greater gains
The greatest gains are achieved with engines that are factory-fitted with a turbocharger. In this case, the software is adjusted to increase turbo pressure and optimise fuel injection. This often results in significant improvements in both power and torque. Average power gain with Stage 1 chip tuning:
- turbo petrol (e.g. 1.4 TSI, 2.0 TFSI, 1.5 EcoBoost): +25 to +60 pk
- turbo diesel (e.g. 2.0 TDI): +20 to +50 pk
- Non-turbo (e.g. 1.6 petrol): +5 to +12 pk
Why do the figures vary?
Not every car responds in the same way to chip tuning. The exact power gain depends on several factors, such as:
- The manufacturer’s engine software (some engines are deliberately ‘restricted’)
- The car’s state of maintenance
- Fuel quality
- Thermal management and turbo size
Please note: a tuner may promise high figures, but reliable tuning always takes the engine’s safety margins into account. Software that is too aggressive can lead to excessive wear or engine damage.
More horsepower? Then extra upgrades are often needed
Do you want to go beyond Stage 1? Then you’ll soon find yourself looking at Stage 2 or 3 tuning. This requires additional upgrades to ensure reliability, such as:
- Downpipe
- Intercooler
- fuel pump
- Air Intake
- Reinforced clutch or modified DSG software
JT-Products supplies these parts, but does not carry out any tuning itself. We are, however, happy to advise you on the correct sequence and parts for a safe and sustainable power upgrade.
Advice from JT-Products
Don’t be guided solely by the horsepower figure. Always ask about the torque (Nm) and how the engine responds to the tuning. A car with ‘only’ +30 pk can feel much faster in practice thanks to improved torque build-up at low revs.
