Automobile manufacturers must compete in a marketplace where fuel consumption, horsepower and torque are big factors, but they must also comply with emissions and other regulations. To meet these demands modern cars are controlled by computers. The computer, known as an ECU (Engine Control Unit), controls all engine settings like the air/fuel mixture, ignition timing and idle speed. A quick and easy way to do this and upgrade your vehicle’s performance is with a “superchip”, also known as an aftermarket performance chip. Aftermarket performance chips are made to adjust parameters to increase engine power and torque. The effects of the superchip can be easily reversed just by plugging it into the ECU and choosing the reset option, which will cause the ECU to revert to the factory settings. Overall, upgrading your ECU settings with a superchip is a fairly simple and low cost alternative for the everyday auto enthusiast.
Don't spread this garbage around. Plug-in performance chips are completely bogus. If it's not a part specifically designed for your make and model, it's not going to do anything except potentially screw things up.
If someone wants a tune for the Malibu, they should go through Trifecta and work with a professional to get their desired results or get HPTuners if you're a DIY kinda enthusiast and write your own tune.
Numerous DYNO test results prove that it is really possible to adjust the engine performance with the help of such chips. For example Hypertech chip is specifically designed for Malibu DOHC L4 2.4L Gas 2012. It is programmed by professionals using on road and dyno stand measurements. So this is not something that comes plain and requires a lot of setups. Still basic technical skills are required.
What's available for the 3.6L SFI found in the 2008-2012 Malibu?
From what I've read, admittedly online, most if not all chips trick the ECU by altering the input from one or more sensors, effectively lying to the computer and tricking it into allowing more fuel. That messes with the AF ratio and might do other undesirable things.
A tuner lets you change parameters to your liking while still being able to pay attention to the AF ratios. Better tuners will also allow adjustments of the transmission shift points, modifying the "Torque Management" parameters, and eliminating the speed limiter, among other things.
Is there a listing of what each chip does and by how much? If so it would be good for someone who's interested in upping their performance so they'll have at least some measure of information on which to base a decision. Otherwise they're just buying snake oil.
The 2.4L hypertech chip advertises 14 hp and 14 lb-ft gains as well as 2-6 more mpg all on 87 octane. Anyone who knows cars and modding will tell you those are BS claims. What magical air/fuel mix did they come up with to gain almost 10% better power and fuel economy on stock parts?
The 2.4L hypertech chip advertises 14 hp and 14 lb-ft gains as well as 2-6 more mpg all on 87 octane - this information was provided by the manufacturer as a result of DYNO test they've made specifically for this engine.
You can also check the results of more lab tests, made on factory engines: http://www.carid.com/hypertech/info/fuel-economy.html
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