Wednesday, March 2, 2022

What Does Stage 1 Software Do and Who Is It For?

If you are looking for what Stage 1 software is, how much power it adds and how it differs from a soft tune, see our full guide: Stage 1 Software: How Much Power Does It Add?

Improving vehicle performance is something many drivers want — some to reduce fuel consumption, some to increase pulling power. There are several ways to do it, and one of them is software.

How Does Software Increase Performance?

The ECU holds files containing the vehicle's operating data — fuel injection, boost pressure, ignition timing and similar values. Modifying those values is what is generally called a software operation.

Performance work is divided into stages: Stage 1, Stage 2 and Stage 3. Stage 1 is the level that can be achieved through software alone, with no hardware changes.

What Does Stage 1 Actually Give You?

Gain	Who it matters to
More torque low down	Vehicles carrying loads, towing, frequently running fully laden
Lower fuel consumption	Long-distance and commercial use; 5-15% if driving style is unchanged
Better throttle response	Stop-start city driving
Fewer gear changes	Comfort on automatic transmissions
More power	Overtaking and hill performance

Who Is It Worth It For?

Long-distance and commercial use. The fuel saving goes straight to the bottom line; this group sees the fastest return.
Vehicles carrying loads. More low-end torque means the engine works less hard.
City driving. Throttle response and shift comfort improve noticeably.
Turbo diesel vehicles. The largest gains are found here.

Who Is It Not Worth It For?

Naturally aspirated engines. The gain is limited to 5-10% and may not justify the cost.
Vehicles with mechanical problems. Fix the fault first; software magnifies an existing problem.
New vehicles under warranty. A software change may affect warranty cover.
Anyone expecting Stage 2. Without hardware changes, Stage 2 is meaningless.

What to Know Before the Work

The original file must be backed up. It is the only guarantee of a way back; ask for a copy when the job is done.
The vehicle must be scanned first. If there is an active fault, no software should be written.
The emissions system must not be touched. DPF, EGR and AdBlue deletes are contrary to regulations on road vehicles.
A road test is required. The job is not finished until boost, rail pressure and exhaust gas temperature have been logged under load.

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