FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Does a tune void my Factory Warranty?
A: Yes, unfortunately it does. If your vehicle is within the warranty limits I recommend not having it tuned.
Q: I bought a car from a dealer(ex.Need-a-Car), will it void my purchased Warranty?
A: As long as it's not "Factory GM Warranty" 5-7 years old, you're okay.
A tune does not endanger the vehicle, it actually helps especially transmissions.
Q: ​Can you provide better fuel mileage?
A: Yes, but it really depends on your driving habits.
Q: Do you Tune all Makes and Models?
A: NO! As of this time I am Tuning GM's ONLY! Due to Schooling, and Expenses. (Ford & Dodge Tuning may come in future).
Q: How much does a tune cost?
A: Tuning starts at $350(+). This Also depends on your Make/Model/Year!
Q: What are my Benefits, and Gains for getting a tune?
A: Increasing engine performance, drivability, extended transmission life, fuel corrections, more power, faster shifting, higher RPM levels, gear and tire size corrections, much more...
Q: Can you turn off my engine light?
A: Yes! But depending on the reason it might not be ideal.
Q: What is a Safe tune vs. aggressive tune?
A: When the advanced ignition timing is cranked way to high for power gains this becomes an aggressive tune due to the chances of Knock was to ever occur. Lowering timing and losing power will become a more safe tune. That being said, other factors also provide a safe tune.
Q: Is getting my GM vehicle tuned worth the money?
A: Yes, and very affordable compared to others performing the same services.
Q: I installed a cold air intake, someone said I need a tune. True or False?
A: True! Your MAF sensor location has changed and pipe diameter has also changed. This skews the Fuel Table!
Basically you now have more air entering the engine, which is a invitation to a lean condition.
Any alterations to a engine requires a tune!
Q: Does Smith Tuning lock PCM/tunes?
A: NO! Smith Tuning does NOT lock PCM/tunes, I do not believe in locking a tune! The tune YOU purchase, is the tune you own!
Q: Do you Tune in the winter months?
A: Only tuning done during the winter months is basic flashes. No drive tuning due to road conditions.
How can a re-flashed PCM be detected by the Manufacturer?
The re-flash will not be obvious to detect as other alterations to an automobile such as altering the exhaust system,
intake system or wiring, but it can be detected. The easiest way to detect the PCM has been altered would be to
verify its memory. The dealer simply plugs into OBDII port and can tell almost immediately if the stock program has
been altered.
Is it possible to recieve a tune, but not be detected?
Yes! Anything is possible.
But also at a much extra cost.
Recommended Before a Tune
Before getting a tune there is a couple things to consider.
Please have a new air filter installed! These are very inexpensive and help the engine breathe. This is required because if we tune with a plugged air filter, and then later on you replace your air filter...then your fuel trims will need to be returned. I'm here to be honest and save you money!
If you haven't replaced your Fuel Filter, this would be a good time to do so. Plugged fuel filter causes two problems. 1)Lean Condition. 2)Major Stress on your fuel pump, causing a failure.
Have your MAF(Mass Air Flow) Sensor cleaned before a tune.
Please ensure your vehicle is in safe operation to drive, and there is no current problems.
Have you done a transmission oil, and filter lately? This is a good service to have done before getting a tune. We can still Tune without having it done, but I would recommend having it done. $80+ for a service is better then $2500+ later on.
Spark Plugs for (LS Engines)...
1) Stock or mildly modified all motor NGK-TR5 / TR55 GAP = .035-.045
2) Low boost less than 14psi or small nitrous 150 shot NGK-TR6 GAP = .025-.030
3) High boost 18-26lbs or big nitrous 250 shot NGK-BR7EF GAP = .020-.024
Locally owned trusted shops for these services.
Big 3 Auto, Stirling Ont.
After the Tune...
Once your vehicle is tuned and all is well, then something conveniently happens...now what?
Chances are if the problem didn't arise while the vehicle was being tuned, then normally it's not the tune.
Before coming back to Smith Tuning, PLEASE ensure there is nothing else wrong with your vehicle!
This has happened before when people assume it's the computer, when 99.9% it's always been some other problem. When GM made the computer for your vehicle and something went wrong, nobody blames the computer then, so why start now?
If you ensure that it is the computer, I will flash back to OEM to diagnose the problem.
If it is my fault I will repair it for free!
If it is not my fault a $50.00 Re-Flash fee will apply.
Check to make sure you're able to be tuned.
If you would like to check out supported vehicles please CLICK HERE.
