Understanding Stage 1, Stage 1.5 and Stage 2 Remapping

Stage 1 Remap

A Stage 1 remap is designed for a standard, mechanically sound vehicle with no major performance modifications. The ECU calibration is optimised while working within the safe capabilities of the factory engine, turbocharger, fuel system and other components.

On petrol turbo engines, Stage 1 tuning may adjust:

• Turbo boost pressure
• Ignition timing
• Fuel delivery and air/fuel targets
• Torque limiters
• Throttle response

The result can be improved power and torque throughout the rev range, with particularly noticeable improvements in mid-range performance. The achievable gains depend on the engine, ECU and factory calibration.

On diesel engines, Stage 1 tuning may adjust:

• Boost pressure
• Fuel pressure and injection parameters
• Torque limiters
• Throttle response
• Relevant engine management parameters

Turbo-diesel engines can often achieve significant improvements in torque and drivability from a Stage 1 remap. Economy-focused calibrations may also improve fuel efficiency, particularly during steady motorway and long-distance driving.

Stage 1.5 Remap – Why We Don't Offer It

At Redline Remaps, we do not offer Stage 1.5 tuning.

Stage 1.5 is generally used to describe a more aggressive calibration that pushes a standard vehicle beyond the limits we consider safe for a Stage 1 remap, without fitting the supporting hardware normally associated with Stage 2.

Although pushing the calibration harder may produce higher power figures, it can also take factory components such as the turbocharger, injectors, cooling system and internal engine components beyond the operating tolerances we are comfortable tuning to.

Higher boost, increased cylinder pressure and additional heat place greater stress on these components and can significantly increase the risk of premature turbocharger, fuel system or engine failure.

For this reason, we will not compromise reliability simply to achieve a higher BHP figure.

If the safe limits of a Stage 1 calibration are not enough for the performance you want, our recommendation is to fit the appropriate supporting hardware and move to a properly configured Stage 2 setup.

Stage 2 Remap

Stage 2 tuning is intended for vehicles with suitable supporting hardware modifications. Requirements vary between engines, but may include an upgraded intercooler, intake, exhaust system or other performance components.

The ECU calibration can then be adjusted to take advantage of the increased airflow and capabilities of the upgraded hardware.

Depending on the vehicle, Stage 2 tuning may involve changes to:

• Turbo boost pressure
• Fuel pressure and delivery
• Injection timing and duration
• Ignition timing
• Torque limiters
• Airflow and load targets

Stage 2 can provide greater power and torque than Stage 1, but the achievable gains and required modifications depend entirely on the engine, ECU and hardware fitted to the vehicle.

Which Remap Is Right for Your Vehicle?

Stage 1 – Best suited to standard vehicles looking for improved power, torque and drivability without hardware modifications.

Stage 1.5 – Not offered by Redline Remaps. We consider pushing standard components beyond safe Stage 1 tolerances without the appropriate supporting hardware an unnecessary risk to reliability.

Stage 2 – Designed for vehicles with the appropriate supporting performance modifications, allowing the ECU calibration to safely take advantage of the upgraded hardware.

At Redline Remaps, we're not interested in chasing the highest possible figures at the expense of reliability. The appropriate level of tuning is determined by the vehicle, its condition, fitted hardware and the performance you want to achieve.