After recent discussions about OBD2 chip tuners online, I decided to delve into researching and understanding them better. Like many, I approached the topic with skepticism. Terms like “resistor scam chip” and “blinking lights gimmick” often come to mind when considering these devices. However, several companies are now utilizing OBD2 chips to adjust air/fuel mixtures and advance ignition timing, presenting a potentially viable tuning method. This review explores my experience with an OBD2 tuning chip to determine if it lives up to the claims.
Some discussions and reviews online have touched upon similar OBD2 devices, like the VP15 Volo Chip, which was reviewed on Performance Chip Reviews.
Forum member Loren shared initial thoughts on the Volo chip, stating, “Volo sounds like the real deal…indications are that it is capable of doing what it claims.” He even ordered one, planning a review, anticipating it might enhance his Mirage’s performance after header and exhaust modifications.
Another product gaining attention is the Sawyer Tuning ST8PRO OBD2 ECU Performance Chip, also reviewed by Performance Chip Reviews.
Initially, I considered the Volo VP15, but ultimately opted for the ST8PRO. Both chips operate on similar principles and appear to share hardware similarities. While the Volo chip offers some customizable tuning features, the ST8PRO does not. My interaction with a Sawyer Tuning representative was reassuring. They confirmed ST8PRO compatibility with my 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage, offered a lifetime warranty, and guaranteed satisfaction with performance gains. The representative highlighted the chip’s ability to detect modifications and fuel grade changes, incorporating these factors into its tuning adjustments.
Priced around $130, the ST8PRO presented a low-risk experiment. The assurance that the chip wouldn’t negatively impact the engine was crucial. I calculated that even a modest improvement in MPG could offset the chip’s cost within a year.
Leaving in-depth technical analysis to experts like Loren, I approached this as a regular car enthusiast eager to maximize the potential of my vehicle. To my surprise, the ST8PRO chip demonstrably works. Throttle response became noticeably quicker and smoother. The engine felt more responsive and “free-revving,” with a tangible increase in low-end torque. Acceleration improved, and the engine reached redline more effortlessly. It felt as if the usable power band had expanded, enhancing both high-speed engine response and relaxed cruising. Even idle smoothness improved, and reversing felt less abrupt.
Fuel efficiency also saw an improvement. Initial MPG readings showed a peak increase, and after approximately 220 miles of varied driving, I observed over a 1 MPG gain, even with spirited driving. This improvement further increased to over 2 MPG after resetting the chip and driving over 300 miles, suggesting continued adaptation and optimization over time.
While this isn’t a dyno-backed technical analysis, my real-world experience indicates the ST8PRO OBD2 chip delivers on its promises. It provides a noticeable performance boost and fuel economy gains, potentially paying for itself through fuel savings within a reasonable timeframe. While a professional ECU re-flash might offer more tailored tuning, the ST8PRO provides a readily accessible and effective performance enhancement for the price.
