Let's define terms first.

A "tune" usually means changing some of the engine computer's parameters, or instructions.

A "piggyback" is some sort of hardware that intercepts sensor data on its way to the engine computer, and changes that data.

So, tunes don't stack -- the engine computer only has one set of instructions. (Ignore for now a couple of exception conditions, such as GREEN mode.) if you get a JCW tune installed, then a Bytetronik tune, the BT replaces the JCW.

Piggybacks can stack on a tune. People have seen very good results from getting the JCW tune then putting a piggyback (NM, Dinan, etc.) onto the engine.

However not all tunes can be safely stacked this way. The JCW tune is relatively mild and conservative, so if you lie to it with a piggyback module, you'll still be well within the engine's safety limits. But get an aggressive tune, and you should not add a piggyback -- once you start feeding false data to a system already pushing the edge of the safe performance envelope, things get real sketchy real fast.

Hope this helps!

 

As an S model, you already have the "first" tune, Sport Mode. I had a NM on my S and decided to go with the JCW tune solo (NM for sale BTW). For me, it seems much better than the NM. The torque range feels wider and more controlled than just front wheel spin with the NM. The tune presses me into the sport seats 2-5 gears. Speed isn't everything. It is just one of many components.

 

 

 

Today is the day I'm dropping my MINI off at the MINI for the JCW Tuning Kit installation.
Quick question: Where to have MINI apply the JCW emblem on the tailgate during my JCW Tuning Kit upgrade?
The instructions indicate a much higher location than my CooperS logo on the right side. My first reaction is the vertical measurement should be equal to the measurement to the bottom of the CooperS emblem. Or do I leave it in the default location indicated in the instructions? What do you think?

 

Tell them what you want and they should do it, I like the old school match to match horizontal for the JCW Tuning kits on the R53 and R56 platform.

 

Cool, I didn't know if their hands were tied because they HAD to do it as printed in the instructions.

 

I have seen them do special things for owners time to time. On that its a simple change.

 

My Carbon came with it on the Left side o the hatch, across from the S. It looks good that way in my opinion. You should also end up with a decal under the hood with the tune info on it (date and such) and a small decal on the engine cover.

 

How much was the labor for the install?