In-Depth Guide to Tuning Stages

Tuning Stages Overview

The different tuning stages depend on the mechanical configuration
and hardware setup of the vehicle.
TuningBot provides custom calibrations for all available fuel octane levels. Each file is adjusted according to the fuel quality requested by the customer.

Fuel quality plays a crucial role in tuning results: higher-octane fuels allow for more ignition timing advance, increased boost pressure, and leaner air-fuel mixtures, leading to improved performance and reliability compared to lower-octane fuels.

Stage 1 Tuning

Stage 1 tuning files are designed for vehicles equipped with completely stock hardware — no aftermarket components.
All Stage 1 calibrations are developed on a 4WD dynamometer, with extensive data logging and long-term testing to ensure precision and reliability.

These calibrations are optimized for vehicles with factory components.
We differentiate torque output depending on the transmission type (manual vs. automatic), and all component protection and anti-jerk limiters are retained.
Factory-imposed limitations that restrict performance — such as fuel cut-off or unnecessary torque reduction — are selectively optimized or removed where safe.

Our Stage 1 remaps feature optimized ignition timing, boost control, and fueling for smoother power delivery and enhanced responsiveness, while maintaining stock reliability.

Sport models: calibrated by default for RON 98 fuel.
Standard petrol engines: calibrated by default for RON 95 fuel.

Premium Tuning (Stage 2)

Stage 2 tuning files are developed for engines equipped with light performance upgrades to the intake and exhaust systems.
These modifications improve airflow and cooling efficiency, allowing higher tuning potential.

Typical hardware upgrades include:

Larger intercooler
Downpipe
High-flow or sport catalytic converter
Performance air intake system
Cat-back or sport exhaust

Stage 2 – Petrol Engines

Stage 2 petrol calibrations are optimized for high-octane fuels (RON 98–102) and designed to complement upgraded intake, exhaust, and cooling systems for increased power and sharper throttle response.

Stage 2 – Diesel Engines

Stage 2 diesel calibrations are typically applied to vehicles with upgraded intercoolers, downpipes, sport exhausts, or DPF removal.
These adjustments enhance torque delivery, improve throttle response, and reduce turbo lag while maintaining safe operating parameters.

Premium Custom Tuning (Stage 3)

Stage 3 tuning files represent the maximum-performance level of ECU calibration.
This level is intended for vehicles fitted with extensive aftermarket performance parts and reinforced engine components.

At this stage, most ECU limitations are recalibrated or removed, and tuning becomes fully customized based on the specific configuration of the vehicle.
Because of the mechanical stress involved, accurate data logs from the client are required for proper calibration.

Important: Stage 3 tuning should only be performed by qualified professionals or under expert supervision. Incorrect setup or incomplete data can result in irreversible engine damage. Fine-tuning on a rolling road (dyno) is often necessary.

Stage 3 – Petrol Engines

Typical hardware modifications include:

Upgraded turbocharger
Larger intercooler and downpipe
High-flow or race catalytic converters
Upgraded fuel pump and injectors
Reinforced intake and exhaust valves, valve springs
Larger MAF/MAP sensors
Performance clutch or race clutch system

Stage 3 – Diesel Engines