Since this is a normally aspirated engine, a simple chip upgrade won't give the dramatic increases seen in the turbocharged cars. Basically, all the chip can do is mess with the ignition timing to squeeze out more power. The only chip I've heard people use is the one from TAP, although SuperChips markets one in the UK which is apparently not available in the US. The TAP chip claims a mild horsepower increase, but the biggest benefit owners report is more torque in the lower RPM range.
ECU Removal
- Position passenger seat with back down. You'll probably want to lay inverted on it in order to get at the ECU.
- Disconnect the battery ground cable.
- There is a plastic cover held on by two hex screws and a plastic clip under the glove box. Remove the screws then pull it down and towards you.
- Now you'll see another mass of black plastic and then way up towards the firewall you'll see a couple of wiring harnesses plugged into an aluminum colored box. There is a black metal clip positioned near the middle of the ECU on another bracket-like fixture. Pull the clip down and set it aside.
- Unplug the yellow harness. The middle of the plug has a small black 'rectangular locking thing.' Slide it down and unplug the yellow plug.
- Next unplug the black plug. You must push the 'button' on the far side to release the lock. Then use a small screwdriver to loosen that end and pry it back. It comes out as if hinged on the opposite end. Pull it out.
- Now, you'll probably notice that there is a white plastic clip that will block the path of your ECU removal. With pliers grab this clip near the firewall and give it a half turn counter-clockwise. This should enable you to slide the ECU by the clip without interference.
- Straighten and push the wiring harness toward the center console so they won't interfere.
- Now at this point you have to do one of two things. On the bottom of the ECU you'll see a small hole (ie: screw hole) hanging down. You may have a bolt through the plate just above and to the left of the hole. If so, remove this bolt and the ECU should be free. The bolt faces rearward, and is best removed by a small ratchet or box end wrench. If there's no bolt, you can stick a screwdriver through the hole and push the ECU towards the firewall and pull down. There is also some sticky tape on the back of the ECU, so it might be tough but it should come out.
- Now you just package it up (in an antistatic bag with lots of padding) and send it to TAP. Call them beforehand and let them know you'll be sending it.
