Like a cheat code for your car: We investigate ECU tuning
Summary
Ars Technica’s feature investigates ECU tuning, showing how software-defined engines enable power gains but also tighten security. It traces the evolution from early chip swapping to EMCS, explains how OEM protections complicate tuning, and highlights the ongoing cat-and-mouse between tuners like APR and manufacturers, including the risk of bricking ECUs and the need for careful calibration.