Your vehicle’s engine is controlled by a main computer board, called the power train module or engine control module (ECU), which regulates the engine's timing, fuel distribution and emissions. Automobile performance chips can be purchased after-market to enhance the basic functions of the ECU.
The main purpose of such chips is to improve the performance of particular functions on a vehicle. They allow you to make upgrades to functions, such as fuel efficiency and turbo boost, by replacing an existing chip with a modified, compatible chip.
When the performance chip is connected to your vehicle, it immediately detects the ECU settings and uses them regulate whatever functions it was programmed for. For instance, if it is supposed to improve fuel efficiency, it will receive signals from the fuel system, and the chip will adjust its settings to regulate all fuel issues.
Chips are manufactured to match the settings on a particular vehicle’s engine control module. Therefore, the make and model of your vehicle will determine what type of performance chip is compatible with it.
Although performance chips are beneficial for enhancing certain vehicle functions, they also void any manufacturer warranties you have for your vehicle. This is mainly because the engine control unit -- where the chip is installed -- is a sensitive, computerized area, and any disruptions within it can cause engine failure.
