computer chip or module/programmer?

SWINGBONE · Feb 20th, 2007, 08:42 PM

Ive been doin a litle work on my 98 maxima. And Ive always heard how much a of a difference reprogramming the computer makes. Which of the two is better, Computer Chip or Computer Module/Programmer or both? And which brands? Would really appreciate the help.

niznos · Feb 21st, 2007, 04:33 PM

The only thing really available for Maximas is a reprogrammed ECU. "Chips" are for older domestic vehicles, like say a 95 Camaro, which have a different ECU design that allows for this; and "programmers" are the same way.

To get a performance oriented ECU, most companies require you to provide a core ECU, such as your old stock one. Depending on the company, you can either buy the upgraded ECU and send your old one in after you change it out to get your deposit back, or just send your ECU in, pay for the upgrade, then they send your upgraded ECU back. The second option obviously has an inherent downtime of however long it takes to send it in, reprogram it, and send it back. Either way, expect to spend hundreds of dollars, and be a slave to 93+ octane gas. Some programs require minor modifications to the vehicle like a colder thermostat.

brianw · Feb 24th, 2007, 02:53 AM

You can't reprogram the `98 ECU. It's ROM based and not reprogrammable unless you replace the existing soldered ROM with a socket and a new ROM. Only two tuners in the country do such upgrades.

Talk to Technosquare or Jim Wolf Technology, both will be happy to sell you an ECU upgrade for $600 or so.