What is "car tuning"?

Car tuning is an automotive service where a car's basic fuel & spark delivery are modified for optimal performance. If the vehicle uses a computer to control the engine then adjustments are made to a car's computer also known as ECM, PCM, ECU. The acronyms are interchangeable. If the vehicle is equipped with a carburetor then manual adjustments are made to the carburetor. Some cars use both a carburetor and a PCM such as a vehicle equipped with a TBI (throttle body injection).

Auto manfucturers through out the last 20 years have converted major engine operation controls through the PCM. And today's tuning software can control just about every engine & transmission operation. Here is just a small list of some of the things that can be modified:

• Fuel & spark delivery • Monitor & record input sensors such as MAF, MAP, IAT, ECT, timing degrees, knock retard • Speed limiter • O2 sensors • Automatic transmission settings ie., line pressure, shift points, torque converter lock-up • Cooling fan settings • Identify & diagnose a "Check Engine" light  

Why do I need to tune my car?

The most obvious and most popular reason is to improve the performance of a car, especially after installing an "aftermarket" performance part (CAI, Supercharger, Turbo, Heads, Cam, NOS, Headers). In general most vehicles can benefit from a custom tune.

I just changed the restrive air box with a cold air intake (CAI) system do I need a tune?

Yes. Anytime you change the way the car is drawing it's air in or out a tune is required for optimal performance. The car's computer is modified to recognize the new method of air delivery and by doing so it maximizes the effectiveness of the CAI or high performance air filter.

I haven't changed anything on my car, do I still need this service?

Most vehicles can benefit to a custom tune simply because the car you purchased was not made with your specific driving style in mind. Just tuning the car for the type of weather the car will operate in 90% of the time can see benefits from a custom tune.

Which software tunes my car?

There is no one software that will tune all car's. Which is why Street Tuning & Dyno utilizes various software applications depending on requirements, complexity, and price. Each software will have it's pro's and con's. Some software requires purchasing a one time access fee to be able to change the computers settings; others require the purchase of a handheld, some require you to modify your computer's PCM by sodering an additional board that will have USB port. There is some software that is free, but may not have all the functionality a purchase route will give you.

How do you connect to the car's computer?

By 1996 OBDII was made a mandatory implementation to all car manufacturers. It is through this port that most tuning softwares comunicates with the car's computer.

Dyno tuning is a way to personalize the characteristics of the owner's unique driving style and preference.