Questions · Straight answers

How long does a remap take?

It varies. Reading and writing software can be relatively quick on some vehicles and much longer on others, depending on the control unit and how it must be accessed. Pre-remap checks add time, and if a fault is found the remap may not go ahead on the same day. We give you a realistic idea when planning the visit.

Last updated:

What affects the time

Some control units can be programmed through the diagnostic port; others need more involved access.

  • 01The control unit and how it is accessed
  • 02Health checks and fault-code scans
  • 03Whether a gearbox calibration is involved
  • 04Faults found during checks
  • 05Post-remap checks

Planning your visit

Send your registration first so we can give you a realistic expectation. If you are travelling a long way, tell us so we can plan accordingly.

How we approach a remap visit

We start with suitability rather than a sales pitch. Before any calibration is written to a control unit we want to know the vehicle is healthy: existing fault codes, boost or fuelling problems, a slipping clutch, a worn gearbox or a blocked DPF all need to be dealt with first, because tuning is not a substitute for repair and can make an existing weakness more obvious.

Where the vehicle is supported we explain what the proposed calibration is intended to change, what checks are needed and what the agreed scope of work includes. We do not publish universal power, torque or fuel-economy figures, because results depend on the individual vehicle, its condition, its software and how it is driven. If a remap is not the right answer for your vehicle, we will tell you.

Getting an answer for your own vehicle

General answers only go so far. The honest answer to “How long does a remap take” for your vehicle depends on its engine, gearbox, software version, mileage, service history and how you use it. Two vehicles that look identical can behave quite differently, and a warning light or a previous modification can change the picture completely.

If you would like a vehicle-specific answer, send the registration with a short description of what you want to know. We will tell you what we can from the details, what would need checking at the workshop, and whether a visit is worthwhile — including when the answer is that the work is not right for your vehicle.

What to send us before booking a remap visit

The quickest way to get useful advice is to send the registration and a short description by WhatsApp or through the quote form. Support and suitability vary by engine, gearbox, control unit and software version, so a registration lets us check the right information instead of guessing. Any estimate given remotely is provisional until the vehicle has been seen and the required checks are complete.

  • 01Vehicle registration and approximate mileage
  • 02Make, model and engine size, if known
  • 03Any warning lights, messages, symptoms or fault codes
  • 04Existing remaps, tuning boxes or hardware modifications
  • 05How the vehicle is used — commuting, towing, short trips or heavy loads
  • 06Whether the vehicle is currently in limp mode or will not start

Visiting the workshop for a remap visit

All work is carried out at our single workshop at Unit 2, Lancaster Works, Kingsbridge Road, Manchester M9 5SP. We do not run a mobile remapping service and we have no other branches, so every a remap visit enquiry is booked into the same Manchester workshop. Visits are by arrangement: please call or WhatsApp before travelling so we can confirm the vehicle, the time and what the visit will involve.

Access is through the black gate. Call when you arrive so we can let you in, then keep left towards the rear of the site. We are open Monday to Friday 8am–6pm and Saturday 8am–1pm, and closed on Sunday. If the vehicle is in limp mode, showing a serious warning or will not start, tell us before setting off so we can talk about whether it is sensible to drive it or whether transport should be arranged.

Frequently asked questions

Can I wait while it is done?

Often, depending on the vehicle and the work. Ask when booking.

What if a fault is found?

We explain it and you decide how to proceed. We will not tune a vehicle with an unresolved fault.

Does a gearbox remap take longer?

It can add time. We will discuss it when planning the visit.

How much does a remap visit cost?

We do not publish fixed prices because the cost depends on the vehicle, the control unit, the work required and any diagnostic findings. Send your registration and details for a provisional estimate; the final quote is confirmed once the required checks have been completed.

How do I book a remap visit?

Send your registration, mileage and a short description by WhatsApp on 07480 657874, use the quote form, or call the workshop. We will check what is involved, then arrange a time for you to bring the vehicle to Unit 2, Lancaster Works, Kingsbridge Road, Manchester M9 5SP. Visits are by arrangement only.

Related services and guides

Call workshop WhatsApp