Pros & Cons of Installing a Performance Chip In Your Dodge RAM 1500

Dodge RAM 1500 is the vehicle of choice for many when it comes to off-roading. After all, the vehicle has a powerful engine lineup, efficient transmission, off-road-capable suspension, and a potent braking system.

So, if you are someone who likes off-roading to get your adrenaline pumping... then the Dodge RAM 1500 is the vehicle you need. What's more interesting about this vehicle is that there are a few modifications you can make to unleash its real power; which the manufacturer left on the table. Installation of a performance tuner chip is one such modification.

Performance Tuner Chip: What Is It & How Does It Work?

Simply put, a performance tuner chip is a small electrical device that is essentially programmed to trick the onboard computer into adding more horsepower to your car. It does that by exerting indirect control over the fuel injectors, intake valves, throttle response and ignition system. So, if you really want to unleash the true potential of your Dodge RAM 1500, the Performance Tuner Chip is what you need.

But, before you use such cutting-edge technology to interfere with the power output of your car, you must be fully aware of its true nature; including its benefits and drawbacks.

Pros & Cons of Performance Tuner Chip

So, you want to enhance the horsepower and torque output of your Dodge Ram 1500 by installing a performance tuner chip…. It's easy to hack the vehicle's engine control module to get more power. But first, you should know about its advantages and disadvantages…

Benefits of using a performance tuner chip

#1- Adds more horsepower

Yup, installing a performance tuner chip can boost your vehicle's overall performance and torque output. Want to know how? Well, the engine control module or ECM is what monitors and controls different aspects of engine operation; ranging from fuel injection to spark plug firing timing. The performance tuner chip essentially has the ability to hack the ECM and trick the engine into generating more horsepower.

#2- Optimizes fuel economy

Another advantage of installing a performance tuner chip is improved fuel efficiency. The chip works in close coordination with the ECU to maximize engine productivity with minimum fuel wastage. This in turn will help you save on your fuel cost. So, if you want to get the most out of your vehicle with minimal wastage of fuel, you can install a performance tuner chip.

#3- Meets emission standard

Contrary to popular belief, your car will not fail emissions inspection if you install a performance tuner chip. The chip essentially manipulates the ECU and takes indirect control over the throttle response, fuel delivery system, and ignition system to enhance the engine's torque output. It is highly unlikely that you would see a change in emission pattern due to the installation of the tuner chip.

#4- It's safe

The performance tuner chip is much safer to use than other engine modifiers. But, you should leave the installation of the chip to a professional technician.

Drawbacks of using a performance tuner chip

#1- May void the warranty

Yes, you read that right... Installation of a performance tuner chip is a very complicated process that requires some modification to major parts of the car which may void any warranties you may hold on your vehicle. Furthermore, any modifications you make to your car, including the installation of the above chip, must be reported to your vehicle's insurance provider.

#2- Impact on engine health

One of the major drawbacks of having a performance tuner chip in a car is that it can adversely affect the overall health of the engine. After all, the chip interferes with different aspects of engine operation and pushes it to the limit. So, make it count when installing the performance tuner chip in your Dodge RAM 1500.

To Conclude;

Installation of a performance tuner chip can add some extra horsepower to a vehicle. Plus, it can help the car to gain MPG. But, the use of such a chip for performance enhancement does come with a few drawbacks. This may void any warranties you may have on your car. Plus, the insurance coverage your car has may get adversely affected due to the said alterations. So, keep these things in mind when installing a performance tuner chip in your Dodge RAM 1500.