I see this being a common topic, but I wanted to start my own thread with a couple specific questions rather than hijacking someone else's...

I'm considering purchasing an ECU upgrade for my 02 S60 2.4T. I know there's no authoritative answer as to which company makes the best model, but I do have a couple questions and would welcome all opinions regarding which manufacturer makes the best all-around ECU upgrade.

Do I need to concern myself with longevity and/or reliability?

Is a boost gauge mandatory or even recommended?

I also read somewhere that it is recommended that I change out the exhaust to avoid getting theturbo too hot... thoughts?

Is there anything else I need to take into consideration?

Thanks in advance.

 

1. Complete STAGE ZERO first. This can be found in the link provided in my signature. Not the link that says "MODS" the other link.

2. A boost gauge should be part of STAGE ZERO. It is recommended but not mandatory. However if your raising your boost I would have one so I know what I am boosting. Lets say the ECU tuner says you will be boosting 15 PSI and you don't have a boost gauge to actually confirm that you are boosting 15PSI you will never know. If you do have one you will know.

3. Yes you should be concerned with longevity and reliabilty. When upgrading that cars ECU your putting more stress on the engine which will degrade is lifespan. Might not be right away but it is degrading it.

4. You don't have to upgrade your exhaust system. It is a nice way to gain more power. However you will heat the turbo up more with an ECU upgrade and a stock exhaust system. And upgrading to something better will help with this issue. 3" mandrel bent downpipe to a 2.5" free flowing catback system with a straight through design muffler like a Magnaflow. Since your not upgrading your turbo you don't need to go with a full 3" exhaust system.

5. The best companies that make ECU upgrades are IPD USA, RICA and BSR. These are the most exspensive, most researched and developed ECU tuners on the market for Volvo's. The cheaper ECU companies are Upsolute, SpeedTuning USA and Inmotion. I recommend IPD USA, RICA and or BSR.