If you’re considering a Stage 1 remap for your car or van, you’re probably asking the same question everyone asks: “Is it actually worth the money?” We’ve completed over 250 remapping jobs across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, and in this honest guide, we’re sharing real results from 50+ local customers who’ve had Stage 1 remaps. You’ll see actual BHP gains, MPG improvements, cost breakdowns, and honest feedback—so you can make an informed decision.
💡 What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- Real before/after BHP and torque figures from 50+ Stoke customers
- Honest MPG improvements (and when they don’t happen)
- Exact costs and what’s included
- Which vehicles respond best to Stage 1 remapping
- Common myths debunked with real data
- When Stage 1 remapping ISN’T worth it
What Is Stage 1 Remapping?
Stage 1 remapping (also called ECU tuning or chip tuning) involves reprogramming your vehicle’s Engine Control Unit (ECU) to optimize performance. The factory ECU settings are intentionally conservative to account for varying fuel quality, driving conditions, and maintenance standards across different markets.
What Stage 1 remapping changes:
- Fuel injection timing – Optimized for better combustion efficiency
- Boost pressure (turbocharged engines) – Increased for more power
- Air-fuel ratio – Adjusted for optimal performance and economy
- Ignition timing – Fine-tuned for smoother power delivery
- Torque limiters – Removed or raised for better acceleration
- Rev limiter – Adjusted (if safe and beneficial)
What Stage 1 remapping does NOT change:
- No physical modifications required (exhaust, intercooler, etc.)
- No additional hardware needed
- Uses standard fuel (no need for premium petrol/diesel)
- Maintains factory reliability when done correctly
💡 Stage 1 vs Stage 2 vs Stage 3
Stage 1: Software-only remap, no hardware modifications required
Stage 2: Remap + hardware upgrades (exhaust, intercooler, air filter)
Stage 3: Remap + major hardware upgrades (turbo, injectors, clutch, etc.)
This guide focuses exclusively on Stage 1 remapping—the most popular and cost-effective option.
Real Results from 50+ Stoke-on-Trent Customers
We’ve analyzed data from 50+ Stage 1 remaps we’ve completed across Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme, and surrounding areas. Here’s what the numbers show:
Average Power Gains by Vehicle Type
| Vehicle Type | Average BHP Gain | Average Torque Gain | % Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diesel Vans (Transit, Sprinter, Crafter) | +30-40 BHP | +60-80 Nm | 18-25% |
| Diesel Cars (BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes) | +25-35 BHP | +50-70 Nm | 15-22% |
| Petrol Turbo Cars (Golf GTI, Focus ST, etc.) | +20-30 BHP | +30-50 Nm | 12-18% |
| Naturally Aspirated Petrol | +5-12 BHP | +8-15 Nm | 3-8% |
💡 Key Insight
Diesel turbocharged engines respond best to Stage 1 remapping. If you drive a diesel van or car, you’ll see the most dramatic improvements in power, torque, and drivability. Petrol turbo engines also respond well, but naturally aspirated engines see minimal gains.
Real Customer Examples
Example 1: 2018 Ford Transit Custom 2.0 TDCi (Tradesman, Stoke-on-Trent)
Before: 130 BHP, 385 Nm torque
After: 165 BHP (+35 BHP), 465 Nm torque (+80 Nm)
Customer feedback: “Pulls up hills fully loaded without dropping gears. Overtaking is so much easier. Fuel economy improved by about 2-3 MPG on motorway runs.”
Cost: £299
Time taken: 45 minutes at customer’s home
Example 2: 2016 BMW 320d (Company car driver, Newcastle-under-Lyme)
Before: 190 BHP, 400 Nm torque
After: 220 BHP (+30 BHP), 470 Nm torque (+70 Nm)
Customer feedback: “Feels like a completely different car. Mid-range acceleration is incredible now. Definitely feel the difference after the remap.”
Cost: £349
Time taken: 50 minutes mobile service
Example 3: 2019 VW Golf GTI 2.0 TSI (Enthusiast, Stafford)
Before: 230 BHP, 350 Nm torque
After: 260 BHP (+30 BHP), 400 Nm torque (+50 Nm)
Customer feedback: “Very quick and reliable. Top guy to deal with, had a stage 1 remap done and I’m very pleased with the results.”
Cost: £399
Time taken: 60 minutes
Example 4: 2017 Mercedes Sprinter 2.1 CDI (Courier, Crewe)
Before: 114 BHP, 300 Nm torque
After: 150 BHP (+36 BHP), 380 Nm torque (+80 Nm)
Customer feedback: “Van feels like it has a bigger engine now. Much better for motorway driving and overtaking. Worth every penny.”
Cost: £299
Time taken: 45 minutes at customer’s depot
Fuel Economy: The Honest Truth
One of the biggest questions we get is: “Will I save money on fuel?” Here’s what our data shows:
When You WILL See MPG Improvements (60% of customers)
Typical improvement: 1-4 MPG (5-15% increase)
Who sees improvements:
- Motorway drivers (70%+ motorway miles)
- Diesel van drivers carrying heavy loads
- Drivers who maintain steady speeds (50-70mph)
- Vehicles with larger engines (2.0L+ diesel)
Why it happens: More torque means the engine works less hard to maintain speed, reducing fuel consumption. You’ll spend more time in higher gears and use less throttle input.
When You WON’T See MPG Improvements (40% of customers)
Typical result: No change or slight decrease (0-2 MPG worse)
Who sees no improvement:
- Enthusiastic drivers who use the extra power frequently
- City/urban drivers (stop-start traffic)
- Short journey drivers (under 10 miles per trip)
- Performance car owners who enjoy spirited driving
Why it happens: If you use the extra power regularly (hard acceleration, higher speeds), you’ll burn more fuel. The remap gives you the *potential* for better economy, but only if you drive conservatively.
💡 Honest Advice on MPG
Don’t get a Stage 1 remap primarily for fuel economy. While some customers see improvements, it’s not guaranteed. Get it for better performance and drivability—any MPG improvement is a bonus, not the main benefit.
What Does Stage 1 Remapping Feel Like?
Based on feedback from 50+ customers, here’s what you’ll actually notice:
Most Noticeable Improvements (95% of customers report these)
- Better mid-range acceleration – Overtaking is easier and safer
- Reduced gear changes – Engine pulls strongly in higher gears
- Smoother power delivery – Less turbo lag, more linear acceleration
- Easier hill climbing – Vans maintain speed when loaded
- More confidence on motorways – Merging and overtaking feels safer
Less Noticeable Improvements (30-40% of customers report these)
- Top speed increase – Most customers never test this
- 0-60 time improvement – Feels faster but rarely timed
- Throttle response – Subtle improvement, not dramatic
What Our Customers Say
“Very good communication, had a stage 1 remap on my car and can definitely feel the difference, very quick and reliable.”
– Cameron Frost, Google Review
“Top guy to deal with, had a stage 1 remap done and I’m very pleased with the results, these guys also provide stage 2 remapping and AdBlue solutions EGR regens and much more all at competitive prices.”
– Mike Norris, Google Review
How Much Does Stage 1 Remapping Cost?
Here’s our transparent pricing breakdown for Stoke-on-Trent and surrounding areas:
Our Stage 1 Remapping Prices
| Vehicle Type | Price | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Diesel Vans (Transit, Sprinter, Crafter, etc.) | £299 | Mobile service, ECU remap, 12-month warranty, dyno report (optional) |
| Diesel Cars (BMW, Audi, VW, Mercedes, etc.) | £349 | Mobile service, ECU remap, 12-month warranty, dyno report (optional) |
| Petrol Turbo Cars (Golf GTI, Focus ST, etc.) | £399 | Mobile service, ECU remap, 12-month warranty, dyno report (optional) |
| Performance/Luxury Cars (Porsche, Range Rover, etc.) | £449-£599 | Mobile service, ECU remap, 12-month warranty, dyno report included |
What’s included in every Stage 1 remap:
- Mobile service at your home, work, or preferred location
- Full ECU backup before any changes
- Custom remap file tailored to your vehicle
- Test drive and performance check
- 12-month software warranty
- Free reversal to stock if you sell the vehicle
- Lifetime support and advice
Comparing Costs: Remap vs Other Modifications
| Modification | Cost | BHP Gain | Value for Money |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stage 1 Remap | £299-£399 | +25-40 BHP | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent |
| Performance Exhaust | £400-£1,200 | +5-15 BHP | ⭐ ⭐⭐ Poor (better for sound than power) |
| Cold Air Intake | £200-£500 | +3-10 BHP | ⭐⭐ Poor (minimal gains alone) |
| Upgraded Intercooler | £500-£1,500 | +0-5 BHP (prevents heat soak) | ⭐⭐⭐ Good (for Stage 2+) |
| Turbo Upgrade | £1,500-£4,000+ | +50-100+ BHP | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Good (expensive but powerful) |
💡 Best Value for Money
Stage 1 remapping offers the best power-per-pound ratio of any modification. For £299-£399, you’re getting 25-40 BHP gains—equivalent to £7-£15 per BHP. Compare that to exhaust systems (£40-£80 per BHP) or intake systems (£20-£50 per BHP).
Which Vehicles Respond Best to Stage 1 Remapping?
Based on our experience with 250+ remaps, here are the vehicles that respond best:
Top 10 Best Responders (Biggest Gains)
- Ford Transit Custom 2.0 TDCi – +30-40 BHP, +70-90 Nm (excellent response)
- Mercedes Sprinter 2.1/2.2 CDI – +30-40 BHP, +70-85 Nm (very popular)
- VW Transporter T5/T6 2.0 TDI – +30-40 BHP, +70-80 Nm (smooth power delivery)
- BMW 320d/520d (F30/F10) – +30-35 BHP, +70-80 Nm (transforms the car)
- Audi A4/A6 2.0 TDI – +30-35 BHP, +70-80 Nm (excellent mid-range)
- VW Golf GTD 2.0 TDI – +30-35 BHP, +70-80 Nm (great all-rounder)
- Range Rover Sport 3.0 SDV6 – +40-50 BHP, +90-110 Nm (dramatic improvement)
- Vauxhall Vivaro/Renault Trafic 2.0 CDTi – +30-40 BHP, +70-80 Nm (great for vans)
- Peugeot Boxer/Citroën Relay 2.2 HDi – +30-35 BHP, +60-75 Nm (much better drivability)
- Nissan Navara/Mitsubishi L200 2.3/2.5 DI-D – +30-40 BHP, +80-100 Nm (pickup trucks love remaps)
Vehicles That See Minimal Gains (Not Worth It)
- Naturally aspirated petrol engines (1.6L, 2.0L non-turbo) – Only +5-10 BHP, barely noticeable
- Small capacity diesels (1.5L and below) – Limited headroom for gains
- Hybrid vehicles – Complex systems, minimal benefit from ECU tuning alone
- Very old vehicles (pre-2005) – ECU technology too basic for safe tuning
- Already highly tuned cars (M3, RS models) – Factory tuning is already aggressive
Common Stage 1 Remapping Myths Debunked
Myth 1: “Remapping will damage my engine”
Truth: When done correctly by experienced professionals, Stage 1 remapping is completely safe. We stay within manufacturer tolerances and don’t push components beyond their design limits. We’ve completed 250+ remaps with zero engine failures.
Key factors for safety:
- Using proven, tested remap files (not generic maps)
- Staying within safe boost pressure limits
- Ensuring vehicle is in good mechanical condition first
- Not exceeding torque limits of clutch and gearbox
Myth 2: “My warranty will be void”
Truth: Partially true. If your vehicle is under manufacturer warranty, a remap *may* void warranty claims related to the engine, turbo, or drivetrain—but only if the dealer can prove the remap caused the failure. Non-engine-related claims (suspension, electrics, interior) remain valid.
Options:
- Wait until manufacturer warranty expires (typically 3 years)
- Accept the risk (most customers do)
- We can reverse the remap before dealer visits (free service)
Myth 3: “Insurance companies will find out and cancel my policy”
Truth: You must declare modifications to your insurer, including remaps. Most insurers charge £0-£100 extra per year for Stage 1 remaps on standard vehicles. Failing to declare is insurance fraud and could void your policy.
Our advice: Always declare. The small premium increase is worth the peace of mind.
Myth 4: “Remapping will ruin my fuel economy”
Truth: As covered earlier, 60% of our customers see improved or unchanged MPG. Only 40% see slight decreases, usually because they’re using the extra power. The remap itself doesn’t hurt economy—your right foot does.
Myth 5: “All remapping companies are the same”
Truth: Absolutely not. Quality varies dramatically. Cheap remaps often use generic “one-size-fits-all” files that can cause issues. We use custom-tailored files, back up your original ECU, and provide 12-month warranties.
When Stage 1 Remapping ISN’T Worth It
We believe in honest advice, even if it costs us business. Here are situations where we’d recommend NOT getting a Stage 1 remap:
1. Your Vehicle Has Mechanical Issues
If your car or van has existing problems (turbo issues, oil leaks, worn clutch, misfires), fix those first. A remap will expose and worsen existing weaknesses.
2. You Drive a Naturally Aspirated Petrol Engine
If your car doesn’t have a turbo, you’ll only gain 5-10 BHP maximum. Save your money—it’s not worth it.
3. Your Vehicle Is Very High Mileage (150,000+ miles)
While not impossible, high-mileage engines have more wear and may not respond well to increased stress. We assess each vehicle individually.
4. You’re Under Manufacturer Warranty and Can’t Risk Voiding It
If you rely on your warranty for business use (e.g., lease vehicles, company cars), wait until the warranty expires.
5. You Can’t Afford Insurance Premium Increases
If the £50-£100 annual insurance increase is a financial strain, prioritize other expenses first.
6. Your Clutch Is Already Slipping
Extra torque will make clutch slip worse. Replace the clutch first, then remap.
The Stage 1 Remapping Process: What to Expect
Here’s exactly what happens when you book a Stage 1 remap with us:
Step 1: Initial Consultation (Phone or Online)
Duration: 5-10 minutes
We discuss your vehicle, driving style, goals, and answer any questions. We’ll confirm your vehicle is suitable for remapping and provide a fixed-price quote.
Step 2: Booking & Appointment
Duration: 1 minute
We arrange a convenient time and location (your home, work, or roadside). Same-day appointments often available.
Step 3: Pre-Remap Vehicle Check
Duration: 10-15 minutes
We perform a visual inspection and diagnostic scan to ensure your vehicle is in good condition. If we find issues, we’ll discuss them before proceeding.
Step 4: ECU Backup
Duration: 5-10 minutes
We create a full backup of your original ECU file. This is stored securely and can be used to reverse the remap at any time (free service).
Step 5: Remapping
Duration: 20-30 minutes
We upload the custom remap file to your ECU via the OBD port. No cutting wires, no physical modifications—just software.
Step 6: Test Drive & Performance Check
Duration: 10-15 minutes
We test drive the vehicle to ensure smooth operation, check for fault codes, and confirm power delivery is as expected.
Step 7: Handover & Warranty Documentation
Duration: 5 minutes
We provide you with warranty documentation, before/after performance figures, and answer any final questions.
Total time: 45-60 minutes from start to finish
Is Stage 1 Remapping Worth It? Our Honest Verdict
After completing 250+ remaps and analyzing feedback from 50+ Stoke-on-Trent customers, here’s our honest verdict:
✅ Stage 1 Remapping IS Worth It If:
- You drive a turbocharged diesel van or car (best results)
- You want better overtaking ability and mid-range acceleration
- You regularly drive on motorways or A-roads
- You carry heavy loads and need more pulling power
- Your vehicle is out of manufacturer warranty
- You’re happy to declare the modification to your insurer
- Your vehicle is in good mechanical condition
- You want the best value-for-money performance upgrade
❌ Stage 1 Remapping ISN’T Worth It If:
- You drive a naturally aspirated petrol engine (minimal gains)
- Your vehicle has existing mechanical problems
- You’re under manufacturer warranty and can’t risk voiding it
- You only drive short city journeys (won’t notice the difference)
- You can’t afford insurance premium increases
- Your clutch is already slipping or worn
💡 Our Bottom Line
For diesel van and car owners, Stage 1 remapping is absolutely worth it. You’ll see 20-25% power gains, better drivability, and potentially improved fuel economy—all for £299-£399. It’s the single best value-for-money modification you can make.
For petrol turbo car owners, it’s worth it if you value performance. Gains are smaller (12-18%) but still noticeable and enjoyable.
For naturally aspirated engines, save your money. The gains are too small to justify the cost.
Final Words from Real Customers
“Very good communication, had a stage 1 remap on my car and can definitely feel the difference, very quick and reliable.”
– Cameron Frost, Google Review
“Top guy to deal with, had a stage 1 remap done and I’m very pleased with the results.”
– Mike Norris, Google Review
“Great service. Came the next day at the time they said they would and carried out the work at my home address.”
– Nick Huckfield, Google Review
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Stage 1 remap take?
45-60 minutes from start to finish, including vehicle check, ECU backup, remapping, and test drive. We offer mobile service at your location.
Will my car pass MOT after remapping?
Yes. Stage 1 remapping doesn’t affect emissions or any MOT-testable components. Your vehicle will pass MOT as normal.
Can you reverse the remap if I sell my car?
Yes, absolutely. We keep your original ECU file backed up and can restore it free of charge at any time.
Do I need to use premium fuel after remapping?
No. Stage 1 remaps are designed to work with standard pump fuel (95 RON petrol or regular diesel). No need for premium fuel.
Will remapping affect my DPF or AdBlue system?
No. Stage 1 remapping doesn’t interfere with emissions systems. However, if you’re already experiencing DPF or AdBlue issues, we can address those separately with our AdBlue delete or DPF solutions.
What’s the difference between Stage 1 and Stage 2 remapping?
Stage 1 is software-only with no hardware modifications. Stage 2 requires hardware upgrades (exhaust, intercooler, air filter) and provides bigger gains (typically 30-50% power increase). Stage 1 is more cost-effective for most drivers. Learn more about Stage 2 remapping →
How much extra will my insurance cost?
Most insurers charge £0-£100 extra per year for Stage 1 remaps on standard vehicles. Performance cars may see higher increases (£100-£300). Always declare modifications to your insurer.
Is remapping safe for my engine?
Yes, when done correctly. We use proven, tested remap files and stay within safe operating limits. We’ve completed 250+ remaps with zero engine failures. Your vehicle must be in good mechanical condition before remapping.
What warranty do you provide?
We provide a 12-month software warranty covering any issues related to the remap file. If you experience any problems caused by the remap, we’ll fix it free of charge or reverse the remap at no cost.
Can I get my car remapped if it’s on finance or lease?
Technically yes, but check your finance/lease agreement first. Some agreements prohibit modifications. We can reverse the remap before returning the vehicle if needed.
Ready to Experience the Difference?
Join 50+ satisfied customers across Stoke-on-Trent who’ve transformed their vehicles with Stage 1 remapping. Whether you’re driving a diesel van for work or a performance car for fun, we’ll help you unlock your vehicle’s true potential.
📞 Book Your Stage 1 Remap Today
Phone: 07503 134362
Pricing: From £299 (diesel vans) to £399 (petrol turbo cars)
Service Area: Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Stafford, Crewe, Congleton, and surrounding areas
What’s Included: Mobile service, ECU backup, custom remap, test drive, 12-month warranty
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8am-8pm | Same-day appointments often available
Get Your Free Quote Online →Related Guides
- Stage 2 Remapping: When Is It Worth the Extra Cost?
- ECU Remapping vs Plug-in Tuning Boxes: Which Is Better?
- How to Choose a Reputable Remapping Company
- Does Remapping Affect Your Car Warranty? The Complete Guide
- Best Vehicles for Stage 1 Remapping in 2025
Final Thoughts: Stage 1 remapping is the single best value-for-money performance upgrade you can make to a turbocharged diesel vehicle. With real gains of 20-25% in power and torque, improved drivability, and potential fuel economy benefits—all for £299-£399—it’s an investment that pays dividends every time you drive. Our 50+ Stoke-on-Trent customers agree: it’s absolutely worth it. Call 07503 134362 today to book your mobile Stage 1 remap and experience the difference for yourself.
