I was wondering if someone can tell me if I can use any tuner on my 02 FX4 5.4? I have been looking in the classifieds for a used one but have noticed some guys are including codes on there sales. Do I need a specific program for my truck or is it a "one size fits all deal"? Also I am wondering if I will kick myself in the a$$ for buying a used one. Is there a wear factor with this kind of thing? I just dont want to spend 200 for a used one and then have to turn around and spend another 325 for a new one. Anyone wanna load up a setup on my truck for exta cash? Just kidding but seriously, should I buy a used tuner, a new tuner or evn a chip? Thoughts please!

P.S. i have no other mods on the truck, future mods are exhaust(magnaflow), Intake (AF1), and some exterior chroming. Just got the truck, lets get started!

 

As far as I understand, tuners are coded to work with certain computers (that's why you have to provide the computer code when ordering). A used one may not be compatible with your computer.

Also, the tuner is supposed to be "locked" to the VIN number after you use it the first time - thus, you can't use a tuner on another vehicle, even if the computer is the same. Well, at least not the engine performance program portion of it.

With chips, it may be different. I don't think they're locked to any specific vehicle, but again, I'd be careful.

At best, if you buy a used tuner and it doesn't work, you're out $200. At worst, it could kill your computer system. I'd spend the $325 and get a new one compatible with your truck.

Mike

 

Do you regret spending the $325 or was it worth your money?
How do rate the performance increase with the tuner installed, where did you get yours from? Sorry about the questions I promise not to make it to 20 . Thanks for the info.

Ryan

 

Here is a link to a Superchips Tuner group buy, Troyers is supplying the Tuners. Read up on it there is alot of info. there. They are $285.00 shipped! http://www.fordtruckworld.com/forums....ten?id=189418

 

DAMN IT, I need 300$ that I don't have *runs off and crys*

 

Hi Silver Bullet,

Your vehicle requires the #1715 Superchips Micro Tuner. So if you find a used one, that could be OK to use. There is one risk, and that is, you don't know until you plug it in if the previous owner has actually returned his vehicle to stock. Most people are honest about that, of course. Otherwise, a used 1715 can be a good deal.

The Micro Tuner can be used on multiple vehicles, there is no limit to the number of vehicles it can be used on, except this: it can only be used on one vehicle **at the same time,** as it can only store one factory program (so you can return to stock at anytime) inside the unit.

The reason you are seeing computer codes listed in those ads is most likely because you are looking at traditional Superchip *modules* being listed for sale, where the computer code must match for proper operation. There are also a few people who will list the code of *their* vehicle when selling their Micro Tuners, I suppose, but the computer code doesn't matter with the Micro Tuner **as long as the Micro Tuner was made after your vehicle was made** (an important point), it will have your vehicle's computer code inside. If the Micro Tuner was made *before* your vehicle was made, then there is a chance that particular Micro Tuner might not have your vehicle's code already built in, and thus would have to be updated for a fee.

There is no "wear factor" on a Micro Tuner or a Superchip module, that isn't the issue when buying used. The issue is that you have no warranty and no vendor to turn to for Tech Support if you have a problem and need help (problems are rare with the Micro Tuner). In other words, the normal risks of buying most things used instead of new - for some people this is not a concern, for others it is, only you can decide that.

Pay particular attention to Orlando's post, as that contains some important info.

Feel free to give us a call to go over this in more detail, & best of luck whatever you decide!

 

Mike,

Thanks for the info, I did check out the other site to see the group deal going on there. Dosnt sound like a bad deal at $285 for a new one when these guys are asking $200 used. Thanks again Mike for the info!

Ryan

 

Ryan,

I think the Tuner was definitely worth the $325 I paid for it. I got it for the performance package plus to correct for my tire (and maybe gears?) change. I only ran 1 week with the bigger tires before I put the Tuner in, so it's tough to evaluate performance. However, I do feel the truck has a little more spunk with the Tuner. It's not gonna let you smoke 'em down to the rim, but for its versatility, I think it's a good deal. Got if from Troyer Perf.

Good luck and thanks Mike for clearing up my previous post - learn something new every day!

Mike