This generation’s cars are already quite powerful and they are getting more and more efficient in terms of performance and fuel economy with every new model. But still, there are a lot of models that can do a lot better with just a little bit of tweaking.
While you can always get under the hood of your car to provide some tuning benefits yourself, it is not necessary now thanks to OBD2 chips. These chips are basically performance chips or tuning chips that allow you to customize your vehicle’s performance as you desire. Here are some things that you should keep in mind before you buy an OBD2 chip for your vehicle.
- Compatibility: Before you take a look at the range of benefits offered by the chip, you should first consider whether the chip you are looking at is suitable for your vehicle or not. Though a lot of OBD2 performance chips are universally compatible, it is better to consider the compatibility of the chip with your vehicle’s make and model before you buy one.
- Fuel Type: The most important factor that requires variations in 3rd party engine accessories is the type of fuel used for the engine. As you may already know, accessories that are designed for diesel engine cars are quite different from those created for gasoline engines, especially performance tuning accessories like a performance chip.
- Monitoring Feature: Monitoring is also a handy feature of an OBD2 performance chip that helps you keep track of the status of your engine and the changes made by the chip. While most OBD2 monitoring chips offer monitoring features, some will offer in-depth data analysis whereas others are only good enough for basic information.
As a lot of car owners do not usually indulge in performance tuning accessories, an OBD2 chip might be unfamiliar to you. And so, it can surely be a little difficult to browse the market for the best option and check out which of these options suits your needs. To help you with that, we are bringing this small selection of the best OBD2 performance chip that you can find on the market right now. These options are carefully selected from the best and most popular choices on the market and offer pretty good results. You can also refer to our “Buying Guide” for the best OBD2 performance chip before you make your choice.
Best OBD2 Performance Chip List
| OBD2 Performance Chip | Compatibility | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Edge OBD2 Performance Chip | 1996 & up most domestic gas & diesel vehicles | 1 Year Warranty | Check On Amazon |
| Bully Dog 40417 OBD2 Performance Chip | Wide range of Ford, Nissan, Dodge, & GM gas models | 1 Year Warranty | Check On Amazon |
| Edge 84130 OBD2 Performance Chip | 1996 & up model vehicles with an OBD2 port | 1 Year Warranty | Check On Amazon |
| DiabloSport 9300 OBD2 Performance Chip | Wide range of RAM/Dodge Gas Models | 1 Year Warranty | Check On Amazon |
| ANCEL OBD2 Performance Chip | 1996 & up model vehicles with an OBD2 port | 1 Year Warranty | Check On Amazon |
Best OBD2 Performance Chip Reviews
1. New Edge OBD2 Performance Chip
This new Insight CTS3 84130-3 from the Edge is the preferred digital gauge monitor by most daily drivers and enthusiasts in the market. It is quite compatible with numerous domestic gas and diesel vehicles from 1996 and newer models.
Upgrade the bulky gauges with this state-of-the-art, multi-gauge touchscreen display with an advanced integrated data logger for tracking vehicle parameters like regen cycles, EGT, boost, trans temp, RPM, fuel, or MAF. While its full-color 5-inch capacitive touchscreen has an auto-dimming feature that offers clear readouts even at night time, including clear and read DTC codes. The built-in performance meter measures 0 – 60, ¼ mile times, etc. Thus, it is a perfect inexpensive alternative to various bulky, analog gauges.
It is quite easy to install (plug-and-play design including windshield mounting bracket) and an effective option to monitor the overall performance of the vehicle and also it is configured to give visual and audible alerts to protect the vehicle. The swipe capability of this OBD2 device lets you switch easily between screens for performance, towing, or economy. Whereas, its integrated accessory system allows for extra gauges or control switches for compressors, lighting, or winch.
Best Features
- Fast and more capable Gen3 design
- Swipe capability and built-in performance meter
- Wi-Fi upgradable & also CARB exempt
- Comes with a 1-year long warranty period
- Compatible with all gas & diesel vehicles
- Easy to install with included windshield mounting bracket
- Can diagnose the engine problem codes easily for troubleshooting.
Pros
- Allows for highly customizable backgrounds and gauges
- Provides clear data on the touchscreen – clear & read DTC
- Monitors numerous key vehicle parameters
- Ideal option for enthusiasts and daily drivers.
Cons
- Some complained about frequent turn on/off.
- A bit expensive product
2. Bully Dog 40417 OBD2 Performance Chip
We have another best budget-friendly option from Bully Dog that has various features to monitor and upgrade the engine performance.
The Bully Dog 40417 GT Platinum gas diagnostic and performance Tuner is preferred for those who are seeking extra mileage, enhance horsepower for the tow rig, and a set of monitoring features along with diagnostic functions. Here the tuner communicates via OBD2 diagnostic port on the car/truck and alerts you to take control of the ride.
It is quite easy to install and you can check the real-time status over 15 performance parameters on a digital LCD display. While its performance chip provides progress on torque production, power delivery, and fuel economy of the vehicle’s engine. Also, check the Fitment Guide to know whether or not this unit is compatible with your vehicle.
It is a 4-in-1 product – monitor (keep a check on critical engine data or parameter and alerts you accordingly), vehicle engine tuner (recalibrate vehicle’s computer onboard to enhance torque and horsepower along with fuel efficiency), diagnostic (read and clear any DTCs), and gauge (replace the multiple gauges on A-Pilar of the truck and read them with this compact device display) that has a large set of features and a wide range of vehicle applications.
Best Features
- Compatible with a wide range of Ford, Nissan, Dodge & GM gas models.
- Monitor for around 15 performance parameters, including trans temp, economy, speed, or time,
- Easy to install and mount the heads-up display on the window/pillar/dashboard of the vehicle.
- Diagnose and clear trouble codes for efficient operation
- Check the fitment guide for product compatibility on your vehicle
- Multiple predefined programs and preloads to switch and match the performance requirements.
- Comes with 1-year manufacturer warranty
Pros
- Rated as the Best Seller on Amazon from Bully Dog
- Enhance horsepower and torque to optimize fuel efficiency.
- Comes with predefined programs
Cons
- Compatibility issues
- Mobile app access is not available.
3. Edge 84130 OBD2 Performance Chip
Here is another model from Edge Products that let its users understand the parameters of the vehicles using Edge’s state-of-the-art technology.
This Edge Products 84130 Insight CTS2 will allow you to monitor the parameters for OBD2 vehicles, especially for the 1996 or new vehicle models. Apart from the insight monitor vehicle performance, it is configured to deliver visual and audible alerts to protect the vehicle, making it ideal for enthusiasts. This is a basic performance chip that is quite easy to install and use with its simple plug-and-play installation. The backup camera is ready and engages the camera while reversing the vehicle.
It comes with a 5 full color high-resolution, swipe screen to display mostly 12 parameters, including EGT, speed, boost, gear, trans temp, MPH, or TFT. It has a slim, sleek case design that has multiple gauge screen layouts and offers fully customizable backgrounds. It is a custom color mixer for gauge arcs, backgrounds, and needles along with compatibility with other tuning devices.
Best Features
- Compatible with all transmission-type vehicles (1996 & up models)
- Digital monitors with fully customizable backgrounds
- Easy to switch between metric or US measuring units
- Compatible with other tuning devices
- Comes with a 1-year long manufacturer warranty
Pros
- Affordable OBD2 performance chip
- Widely compatible option
- Available with 50-state legal tuning.
- Perform 1/4 mile, and 0 – 60 performance tests along with engine diagnostic.
Cons
- Some reported about compatibility issues
- The device gets shut on/off frequently.
4. DiabloSport 9300 OBD2 Performance Chip
DiabloSport Trinity 2EX is one of the extreme performance tuners along with a monitor, diagnostic, and data logging device. It has an impressive, high-resolution 5-inch capacitive touchscreen with full swipe functionality. It has wide compatibility that covers numerous vehicles of Chrysler, Dodge, & Ram models.
It offers 50-state compliant tuning, high-definition graphics, custom tuning capability, and premium quality. With a single touch on this chip, the device offers easy menu navigation. It effectively monitors volts, speed, ECT, boost, IAT, or tans temp. It has advanced data acquisition, customizable gauges, and internet updateable that monitor and allow you to read/clear diagnostic codes.
This performance tuning will make it a perfect option for towing, mileage, daily driving, and performance. The T2 users will tune the truck or car for extra torque, and horsepower, which improves throttle response, and thereby overall drivability. Also, it comes with a 1-year long warranty.
Best Features
- Compatible with various transmission vehicle models
- Dyno-proven power gains
- Correct the speedometer and adjust speed along with other limits
- Easy to install and mount on the various spots of the vehicles
- Easy to swipe or switch between screens
- Comes with 1-year manufacturer warranty
Pros
- Comes with predefined programs
- A perfect option for enthusiasts
- Comparatively more user-friendly than other options
Cons
- Overpriced option
5. ANCEL OBD2 Performance Chip
the FX2000 is the my ultimate car companion! This OBD2 scanner has transformed how I care for my vehicle. It’s like having a personal mechanic at my fingertips! Just plug in the FX2000 and it automatically recognizes my car’s details.
With its full OBD-II diagnostics, it quickly identifies engine, transmission, ABS, and SRS issues.
I love the live data streaming feature, which provides real-time insights into my car’s performance. And those annoying fault codes? The FX2000 reads and clears them effortlessly.
Safety is a top priority, and the FX2000’s SRS and ABS diagnostics give me peace of mind. With the VIN readout and data logging, I have all the important information at my disposal.
The FX2000 is reliable and accurate, diagnosing thousands of vehicles. It even comes with a warranty and free software updates. Take control of your car’s maintenance with the FX2000 it’s worth to save time, money, and keeps your car running smoothly.
Best Features
- Full OBD-II diagnostics for comprehensive problem detection.
- Live data streaming for real-time performance insights.
- Fault code reading and clearing for easy troubleshooting.
- Easy to use with plug-and-play operation.
- Automatic identification of car model and year.
Pros
- Accurate diagnosis with a high success rate.
- Valuable for both car owners and professional mechanics.
- Comes with a 12-month warranty and free software updates.
Cons
- Limited to vehicles from 1996 onwards.
Buying Guide For The Best OBD2 Performance Chip
Gone are the days when you would need to get to the core of your car’s engine to check if there is a fault or if you wanted to increase of your engine. Nowadays, it can be done using a simple press of a button thanks to the advanced sensors installed in almost all modern cars and a controlling chip to manage the sensors with simple instructions. OBD2 performance chips are one such marvel that a lot of car owners need for their cars to increase their performance.
These chips can be focused on many different aspects of the engine’s performance such as fuel economy, power delivery, increased torque capacity, or other areas that directly affect the output of the engine. To help you pick up the best OBD2 performance chip, we are presenting this helpful buying guide for the best performance chips. Here, we will talk about some important factors that will help you consider the best option you can find for your car.
1. Compatibility With Vehicle Model
Before you consider the benefit of any vehicle accessory, you need to check whether it is compatible with your car or not. Otherwise, there is no point in wasting time on understanding the product that you won’t be able to install in your car. The same goes for performance-enhancing hardware for vehicles such as an OBD2 chip.
While a lot of manufacturers design these chips to be universally compatible with all cars, that is not always the case. Some chips are specifically designed for a popular series of a particular car brand which is exclusive for the series. Therefore, you should always check the compatibility of the chip with your car before making a choice.
2. Engine Type
The type of engine powering your car also affects what type of accessories you can install in it. Diesel-powered engines usually have many different internal components and they operate in quite a different way compared to gasoline engines. As a result, the accessories and even performance chips designed for diesel engines are sometimes different from what you need for a gasoline engine.
Therefore, it is important to check whether the performance chip you are buying is designed for diesel engines or gasoline engines. You can also find some options that work well with both types of engines. You can probably get the most benefit from such an option, especially if you own multiple cars, or need the performance chip for simultaneous monitoring with multiple vehicles.
3. Preferred Tuning
Another thing that you need to consider is what performance upgrade you are looking to have on your car after installing the performance chip. You see, each of these OBD2 performance chips has a built-in set of instructions that focuses on a particular aspect of your car’s performance such as fuel economy, break power output, power transmission, etc. So, you can only expect performance upgrades from a specific area after installing such a chip.
With that being said, there are a few newer models of OBD2 chips present on the market that allow you to create your own customized program so that you can focus on the performance aspect that you wish to enhance. These are comparatively the best options since you can get creative with the chip and get the exact performance upgrade that you need. But, these options are also a bit more difficult to understand and only suitable for those who have previous experience with such performance chips.
4. Monitoring Feature
A lot of users install an OBD2 performance chip just for the sake of its monitoring feature. This is arguably one of the most important features since it tells you the status of your engine in real time and allows you to take necessary actions before something goes wrong. There are multiple types of performance chips based on what monitoring features they offer.
While some chips are only good enough for basic information, some offer detailed analysis and in-depth information about every aspect of your vehicle. So, you need to carefully check which of these options will benefit you the most. As most buyers will prefer a full-monitoring system, consider the fact that such systems are significantly more expensive and you probably don’t even need that if you frequently get your car assessed by a professional technician on a regular basis.
5. Installation
The performance chips are installed to enhance the torque and horsepower of the vehicle. However, its installation is quite easy and straightforward (plug-and-play). All you need is to plug this performance chip into the OBD2 connector/port under the driver-side dashboard after starting the vehicle/car. Yet the user has to check whether the particular chip model is compatible with their vehicle’s model or not.
Then press & hold the Reset/Sync button on the front part of the chip for around 15 seconds. Finally, drive for at least 150 – 200 miles for calibration, as it let the chip remap the fuel-air exchange (or computer ECU) for the best performance. The lights on the chip specify the software function.
6. Warranty
These aftermarket parts and accessories should have a warranty to make them use effectively for a longer time. Most of these OBD2 performance chips come with a minimum of 1-year manufacturer warranty, while some models offer 3 years or even a lifetime warranty. We suggest you check the warranty offered by the manufacturer before making its purchase to have peace of mind in its operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: OBD2 chips or performance chips are aftermarket chips that are programmed to increase the efficiency of your car’s engine and its power delivery. While some of these chips can override the stock performance monitor of your car, some will simply work alongside the default system for better results. In most cases, these performance chips are installed to increase the speed, torque, power output, or fuel economy of the engine. Since each chip operates on a different code, each option will offer different results.
Ans: Increasing the capacity of your engine would require you to make physical changes in the engine’s parameters, which is much easier said than done. Therefore, almost none of the performance chips on the market can assure an increase in the capacity or basically the output capacity of your engine. However, these chips can certainly increase the torque within the same CC limit by improving the valve timings or other controllable parameters. But, it is important to check what type of chip you are buying and what is its intended purpose before you install it.
Ans: A high-quality OBD2 performance chip from a reliable brand will surely cause no harm to your car’s engine, or any other internal part for that matter. Although, not all car companies allow 3rd party modifications inside the car, even regarding the software and performance chips. So, most companies will consider your car’s warranty void if you install a 3rd party performance chip. Some performance chips also end up increasing the toxic gasses released by the engine’s exhaust while increasing its torque or speed limit.
Conclusion
As all products and accessories you use on a daily basis are getting smarter, why should your car be left behind in the competition? It has been quite some time since most companies started installing monitoring software in the car that can detect problems without needing to get inside the engine and also control the parameters of the engine to affect its output. And thus, there is 3rd party hardware available on the market such as a performance chip that allows you to bypass the factory standard and get even better performance from your car. But for that, you will have to carefully select the right OBD2 performance chip which is not only suited for your car but also affects only those parameters that you wish to change without any drawbacks.
To help you with that, we have brought you this list of the best OBD2 performance chips you can find on the market. Along with that, we have also included a buying guide so that you can make the right choice based on some crucial factors of an OBD2 performance chip. Lastly, we will offer some handy recommendations so that you can quickly get the right performance chip for your car.
- If looking for the Best Overall Option, then we suggest you pick the New Edge OBD2 Performance Chip. It is widely compatible with 1996 and above numerous vehicle models, making it the most preferred option by daily drivers and enthusiasts. Its touchscreen data logger tracks various key parameters of the vehicle for its better performance and enjoyable ride.
- If searching for the Best & More Featured Option, then go with Bully Dogs 40417 OBD2 Performance Chip. It is designed to work with various vehicle models, including Ford, Chrysler, Dodge, GMC, Jeep, Lincoln, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and Nissan models that come with the acceptance of 50 states’ emission standards and monitors over 15 performance parameters on its LCD. It also has code clearing, and 4 preloaded tunes to enhance the vehicle’s performance.
- If seeking the Best Budget-Friendly Option, then choose ANCEL OBD2 Performance Chip. Apart from easy installation, it provides real-time monitoring over several vehicle sensors with its built-in scan tool. It troubleshoots and allows your vehicle for enhanced performance. Also, it comes with a 1 year warranty.
