What is stage 4 chip tuning?

What is stage 4 chip tuning?

Stage 4 chip tuning is it highest level in engine tuning This means your car has been modified to the point that virtually nothing is original. This includes a completely modified engine build, larger turbos, modified fuel systems, gearbox reinforcement, ECU reprogramming, and often the use of racing fuel.

Where stage 1 and 2 are mainly software and slightly mechanical, stage 4 fully geared towards motorsport level.

What does stage 4 entail?

Stage 4 tuning is purely custom work and usually consists of a combination of high-quality performance parts and advanced software tuning. Common adjustments include:

  • Forged pistons and connecting rods
  • Fully customized ECU and TCU software
  • Large custom turbo or twin-turbo setup
  • Reinforced clutch or gearbox
  • Fuel pumps and injectors suitable for E85 or race fuel
  • Race intercooler, modified exhaust line and air intake
  • Reinforced engine mounts and improved cooling systems
  • Possibly a standalone ECU (such as Syvecs or MaxxECU)

Sometimes even the cylinder capacity or compression ratio is adjusted for maximum performance.

How much power does stage 4 tuning produce?

The capital gains in stage 4 are enormous, but highly dependent on the starting point. Consider:

  • From 150 hp to 400+ hp in smaller turbo engines
  • From 300 hp to 700+ hp with V6 or V8 engines
  • Race cars with 800 to 1000+ hp are no exception

Please note: Such power requires more than just tuning – it is a complete rebuilding of the vehicle, where every component is optimized.

Is stage 4 suitable for street use?

In most cases, no. Stage 4 cars are:

  • No longer street legal (due to emissions, noise or modifications)
  • Very sensitive to maintenance, fuel quality and temperature
  • Only suitable for track days, 1/4-mile races or as a show project
  • More expensive to use and adjust

Advice from JT-Products

At JT-Products we do not perform tuning ourselves, but we supply high-quality performance parts which are essential for reliable and robust stage 4 projects. Consider:

  • Reinforced couplings
  • Fuel systems
  • Turbo upgrades
  • Intercoolers
  • Intake and exhaust systems

Considering stage 4 tuning? Sound advice is crucial to avoid costly mistakes. We're happy to help you select the right components and fine-tune your engine in consultation with your tuner or engine builder.