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Do performance chips increase horsepower? Some vehicle-specific engine-control tuners can change engine operation and may be calibrated to raise power, but a calibration change alone is not proof of a horsepower gain. The available EPA testing discussed here measured emissions, not horsepower, so it cannot establish how much power either tested tuner added.
What does “performance chip” mean?
The phrase can refer to an ECM (engine control module) tuner or programmer, a plug-in module, or a revised ECU (engine control unit) calibration. These products do not all do the same thing. The changes depend on the vehicle, engine, and model year, so claims about “performance chips” as a single category are too broad to judge a specific product.
The EPA’s 2016 report describes ECM tuners that load modified calibrations. That establishes that the devices can change engine controls; it does not establish that every device increases horsepower.
Do performance chips really work?
They can alter engine operation, but whether a particular tuner produces more horsepower requires a credible power test on the exact vehicle configuration and tune. A useful test should identify the vehicle’s year, make, model, and engine; the calibration; the fuel used; and the conditions under which power was measured. Without that evidence, a horsepower claim remains unverified.
#1 Best Overall
- FLASHPAQ F5 GM DIESEL/GAS
The EPA and contractor Eastern Research Group tested two pre-loaded tuners in October and November 2015. Their report focused on engine controls and regulated emissions, not horsepower:
| Tuner and vehicle tested | What the EPA report found | What it does not establish |
|---|---|---|
| Bully Dog Diesel GT, part number 40420, on a 2012 Ford F-250 with a 6.7-liter Powerstroke diesel | NOx emissions nearly tripled over the Federal Test Procedure and exceeded the applicable emissions standard. | A horsepower gain or loss; the report did not measure horsepower. |
| SCT X4 Powerflash, part number 7015, on a 2013 Ford F-150 with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine | The tuner altered engine operation but did not increase regulated exhaust emissions over the test cycles used. | A horsepower gain or loss; the report did not measure horsepower. |
These are results for two specific tuner-and-vehicle combinations, not a comparison of their power output or a forecast for other vehicles. The EPA report cautions that effects are likely to differ by vehicle, engine, and model year. Read the EPA report on aftermarket defeat devices and tampering.
Rank #2
- Vehicle Fitment: This SuperChips Flashpaq Programmer was specifically designed to be compatible with your 2005-2009 300, Aspen, Charger; 1998-2008 Dakota, Durango, Magnum; 1998-2010 Ram 1500/2500/3500; 2011-2014 Ram 1500; or 2011-2012 Ram 2500/3500 vehicle; See image 2 for full list of compatible vehicles
- HD Graphic Interface: The high-definition 2.8" color screen features a redesigned graphic interface for better usability, while increased memory and a faster processor improve tuning and updating speed; Sleek, slim construction make for easy handling and storage
- Designed to Impress: Is loaded with gas and diesel tuning that improves horsepower, torque, throttle response, fuel economy, and more
- Optimal Customization: Features include speedometer correction for tire size and fear ratio changes, adjustable speed and rev limiters, vehicle parameter monitoring, internet updates via USB, and so much more so you can enjoy your vehicle's hidden potential
- Buy with Confidence: Is protected against errors or defects in manufacturing under Holley's Limited Warranty, and CARB EO D-330-21 for added peace of mind
Will a performance chip work on my car?
Compatibility and results depend on the exact application. Before considering a vehicle-specific OBD-II or ECM tuner, check these details rather than relying on a generic horsepower promise:
- Fitment: Confirm the exact year, make, model, engine, and any relevant vehicle configuration the tuner supports.
- Power evidence: Look for independently documented horsepower and torque testing on the same vehicle configuration and calibration—not just a statement that engine settings change.
- Fuel requirements: Check which fuel the calibration requires and whether that requirement is practical for your use.
- Emissions controls: Find out whether the tune changes, bypasses, or disables emissions-control equipment or strategies.
- Installation and reversibility: Understand how the tune is installed, whether the original calibration can be restored, and what that process involves.
- Local rules: Verify that the exact product and application comply with emissions requirements where the vehicle is registered and driven.
The EPA testing cited here offers no comparative horsepower ranking, price comparison, or statement of current product availability. Its historical examples should not be treated as product recommendations.
Rank #3
- High-definition, 2.8" color screen
- Redesigned graphic interface for improved user experience
- Increased memory with faster processor for improved function and updating speed
- Eliminate downshifting when climbing hills
- Speedometer correction for changes in tire size and gear ratio
Can a tuner hurt my engine or emissions?
A tune can change engine operation, and its consequences depend on the device, vehicle, and extent of the changes. The two EPA tests illustrate why it is important not to generalize: the tested Bully Dog setup produced a substantial NOx increase, while the tested SCT setup did not increase regulated exhaust emissions over the test cycles used. Neither result tells you what a different tuner will do, or whether either tested setup gained horsepower.
Higher emissions can also raise legal concerns when a device defeats emissions controls. The Clean Air Act prohibits manufacturing or selling parts that bypass, defeat, or render inoperative emissions-control elements. That does not mean every tuner is automatically illegal: status depends on its design and application, and requirements vary by jurisdiction. Check the rules that apply to your vehicle and location.
Rank #4
- Built for Your Truck: Compatible with 1999-2016 Escalade, Tahoe, and Yukon with 6.0L or 6.2L V8 Engine and 1999-2016 Camaro/Corvette with 5.7L or 6.2L V8 Engine
- Unlock Performance: Optimize horsepower, torque, throttle response, and overall drivability with performance calibrations designed to deliver a more responsive and engaging driving experience
- Tune & Customize: Install performance calibrations, manage supported vehicle settings, and personalize your driving experience through the intuitive full-color touchscreen and easy-to-use in-cabin interface
- Monitor & Diagnose: Stay connected to your vehicle with customizable digital gauges, real-time engine and vehicle data, and built-in diagnostic capabilities that help monitor performance and vehicle operation
- Tune with Confidence: Combining advanced performance tuning, real-time monitoring, and in-cabin control, the Trinity 2 delivers a complete performance solution backed by a one-year limited warranty and CARB EO D-770 for added peace of mind
Does “EPA tested” mean a tuner is approved?
No. The EPA’s voluntary Aftermarket Retrofit Device Evaluation Program generates and shares technical data about aftermarket devices and additives that claim to improve fuel economy or reduce emissions. The agency says: “EPA does not approve, certify, endorse, or register any products that pass through this voluntary evaluation program.” Testing through the program is not approval or certification. See the EPA’s Evaluation Program for Aftermarket Retrofit Devices.
A separate EPA enforcement matter involving Punch It Performance concerned aftermarket tunes that altered fueling strategies to increase power, fuel economy, or both at the expense of higher regulated pollutants. The 2020 settlement page says more than 20,000 aftermarket defeat devices were manufactured and sold in that matter; that figure describes the case, not the market as a whole. The EPA also notes that emissions severity depends on the original vehicle design and the extent of modifications. Read the EPA’s Punch It Performance Clean Air Act Settlement page.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- BUILT FOR DODGE CHALLENGER 2008-2023: Fits supported SXT, GT, R/T, T/A, Scat Pack, SRT8, SRT 392, SRT Hellcat, SRT Demon, SRT Super Stock and applicable special editions. Engine applications include 3.5L and 3.6L V6 plus 5.7L, 6.1L, 6.4L and 6.2L HEMI V8 engines where equipped
- 36 WAYS TO SHAPE PEDAL FEEL: Reduce throttle lag and adjust response with four modes: Eco, City, Sport and Sport+, with nine levels per mode for 36 settings total. Eco provides a smoother pedal feel for relaxed cruising and can be doubled as a Valet or Teenage Driver mode. City and Sport progressively sharpen response, while Sport+ is the most aggressive throttle response setting
- QUICK 15-MINUTE PLUG & PLAY INSTALL: Connects directly to the accelerator pedal position sensor without cutting or splicing wires or requiring special tools. Installation is fully reversible and requires no permanent changes
- MOBILE APP CONTROL AND ANTI-THEFT: Adjust modes and sensitivity through the controller or free Pedal Commander app. The optional subscription-based Anti-Theft feature locks the accelerator pedal signal, immobilizing the vehicle until disabled through the app
- FACTORY ECU STAYS UNCHANGED: Pedal Commander keeps factory ECU software unchanged and is fully reversible. It adjusts accelerator pedal response without changing engine output and is compatible with other performance upgrades
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