Tuning a 4.8

[JLed79]

Are there any options to tune an e70 4.81 with sport package?

[spaniard]

Yeah, an ECU tune will add better throttle response, speed limit off, optimized timing on highest octane. Try to find a good ECU tuner in your area.

[brian5]

Originally Posted by JLed79

Are there any options to tune an e70 4.81 with sport package?

There almost no tuning options for this E70 4.8i in the USA. I have been searching for options for 4 years. Dinan, Burger and all those don't have an option for the E70 4.8i.

The only one is Upsolute.com They said I could remove the ECU and mail it to them in NC. When I asked for instructions on how to do that, they had none. The closest option that they suggested to me (from CT) was to go to Montreal or Quebec...

[JLed79]

Ouch. I'm in upstate New York. Oh well. Guess I'll just have to drive it like it is.

[spaniard]

My 4.8i is tuned by ECUPROGRAM ( www.ecuprogram.com ) fully OBD2 process (no need to remove the ECU). Luckily they are local in my city.

[brian5]

@Spaniard,
ECUPROGRAM. Hadn't heard of them before. I found it hard to find details on 4.8i but eventually found it here You have to search but

• X5 4.8i (Stage 1) HP+25 and Torque+24
• X5 4.8i (Stage 2) HP+41 and Torque+30

are listed. No prices shown.
Which one did you get and can you say how much it cost?

@JLed79,
Just so you have all the info:
1. Upsolute claims HP goes from 355 to 390 and Torque from 350 to 380. Maybe around $400. This sounds worthwhile.
2. ESS Tuning has E-Flash performance which costs $955 and "typical performance increase is +10-15hp". I never felt it was worth pursuing.
I have been active on BMW forums forums, especially X5-related ones, and I've never seen anyone report on either of these products. So obviously some risk with both.

[JLed79]

@brian
Thank man. I'll definitely look into them. The first one you mentioned seems worth while but the second seems pretty steep for minimal gains.