https://www.dinancars.com/products/software-tuning/engine-tuning/inline-modules/dinantronics-x/parts/D440-0141

So it looks like Dinan is supporting our JCW’s from 2015-2022, anyone experience this yet? Thoughts? Buhler? Buhler?
Thanks, Jose

 

From the threads I've seen on here the Dinan chips invariably end in a CEL.

 

Oh crap! No good. Thank You Pal

 

It's weird to me because some dealers will install them and they're covered under warranty, but they seem to generate problems for a lot of people. Maybe there's a ton of people out there with no issues, but I'd be wary personally.

Here's one thread about it if you're curious: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-or-sport.html

 

I have had the NM power module on my 2016 JCW since I first purchased the car. It has been flawless. I also installed the JCW performance exhaust. On the dynomometer it produced 270 horsepower and I have had no issues with it. It now has 80,000 miles on it.

 

To be fair, Dinan was aware of the problem and had solved it in late 2019/early 2020. Initially, I installed a Dinan Elite in early 2019 and experienced CELs almost immediately. Performance was great and there were not adverse issues other than the light. They replaced that unit, but it had the same problems. When I contacted them they told me that they were working on a fix. In early 2021 I contacted them again and they overnighted an entire unit (module and harness). The new unit had a 2020 manufacturing date and has been flawless for over 5,000 miles.

So, before dismissing Dinan outright, you need to be aware that the CEL problem is no longer. Also, starting last year, they shifted from plug-in modules to reflashing the ECU. Supposedly, they are getting better power than before. Overall, I am very satisfied with the Elite that I currently have and was very impressed with their customer service.

 

others have already stated this, but this is absolutely an issue of too small of a population size to say anything.

I’ve run a Dinan for 20k miles without any issues.

I do know the Dinan elite was originally done off of a completely stock car, and the more you mod it, the more likely you are to get a code.

also, this chip doesn’t work with JCW pro tune like the NM or JB4 do, for whatever reason.

Also, Dinan now sells a bench tune for cheaper than this.

 

I had the elite on my 2018 F54 JCW and it was flawless…. I have a similiar DINAN tune on my M4 and it’s impressive! Get it and have fun!

 

I've been running maximum map on my Dinantronics X with no issue.

 

interesting!

 

I lied sort of. It works great but very randomly and infrequently it will throw a CEL. I just clear it with Bimmerlink though.

 

i had the X, and was sent 4 replacement units. Kept getting CEL P00bd, Airflow too, high after 30 miles of driving. Thought it was my eventuri, took it off and still ended getting the CELs. Dinan offered me to get my ECU Flashed to Stage 1 as last remedy.

WAAAAAAY better power delivery and much smoother than the piggyback...and no more CEL!.

 

For some reason the CEL never came back after I had the issue for a while. Works pretty much flawlessly now. I don't know if the ECU just did long term adaptations to fix it. Could have been spark plug related also because I changed mine out and I don't think I had that issue since. Used to throw a Drivetrain malfunction on WOT especially during rainy weather.

I mean Dinan could offer you a flash tune but that means your car is down for however long you have to send it to them and get it returned. I would do that too but it's my daily so I can't have downtime. The reason you might have "way more" power now is because your Eventuri was actually having power loss. I heard that without a proper tune you actually lose power from having certain intake modifications. For a piggyback, I have zero complaints. Car is currently at 280/310tq with just a Forge intercooler, Catback, and performance air filter running on Map 7. HEMI challenger almost **** the bed trying to keep up with me on a long curved exit today.

 

I had a few issues initially with 2 or 3 units but since 2020-ish the module has been fine, no CEL's. Dinan's customer service was fantastic, I would definetly buy from them.

 

The NM Power Module a a great alternative. Easy way to get 20-40 hp for under 400 bucks. Easy to install and remove. I've been using i for the past 4 years on my '20 JCW without issue.

 

That seems very similar to the Dinan Sport module.
https://www.dinancars.com/products/s...arts/D440-0012
Both have the advantage of being quickly removeable.

Do you pass inspection with the NM installed, or do you remove it first? (And are you using the low or high setting?)

FWIW, The Dinan is only $240, and is specifically designed for road use, hence more low-end torque, at the expense of less total HP at very high revs. I don't know how the NM is designed.
Also, the Dinan requires 93 octane, whereas the NM can take 91 octane on its low setting, but needs 100 octane (ouch!) for the higher HP.

 

BTW - since all these tunes need higher octane, and thus good chamber ignition is critical, has anyone tired the upgraded ignition coil from Dinan?

https://www.dinancars.com/products/e...arts/D650-0009

It's cheap enough to just try, but has it helped anyone, or do you think it's a good idea in general?

 

I take it out for smog checks, etc. Takes less than 5 minutes to do so. I keep the settings on high. The only time I’ve used the low setting is on a track day with 91 octane. Daily driving, I use 91 octane and it is fine. I’m tempted to use 100 which is available a hour away but that runs $10/gallon the last time I checked. There is more power everywhere in the rev range. Just a little pressure from my big toe and we are traveling quickly. Traction out of corners is great but your experience may vary depending on the quality of tires you have. In freezing cold weather and 115+ degree desert heat, no issues.

 

I'm also interested if getting upgraded coils is a good idea.

 

Microsoft CoPilot AI shaman states:
Upgrading the ignition coils in your **Mini F56 JCW** can have a positive impact on performance and reliability. Let's explore the options:

1. **DINAN Ignition Coils**:
- DINAN is a reputable brand known for performance upgrades.
- Their ignition coils promise up to **10% more energy output** compared to stock coils.
- Upgrading to DINAN coils can result in a **stronger and more consistent spark**.
- If your current coils are causing **sluggish acceleration** or **misfires**, this upgrade could be beneficialł.

2. **OEM vs. Aftermarket Coils**:
- Stick with **OEM** (original equipment manufacturer) coils or consider **Magnecor**.
- Some believe that the **ECU doesn't fully adapt** to alterations, so OEM coils are a safe choice.
- Keep in mind that the factory mapped the ignition system for all three JCW versions, so any changes should be carefully consideredą.

3. **Additional Considerations**:
- If you've made other modifications (such as a **fast road cam**, **exhaust upgrades**, or **supercharger pulley changes**), a **remap** might be necessary.
- Don't forget to use **colder spark plugs**, especially if you're not remapping.
- Overall, balance performance upgrades with reliability and long-term maintenanceą.

Remember that while upgrades can enhance performance, it's essential to strike a balance and ensure proper tuning for optimal results. Enjoy your Mini JCW adventure! 🚗💨

Source: Conversation with Bing, 2/14/2024
(1) NEW PRODUCT RELEASE: Dinan Ignition Coils - Dinan Blog. https://www.dinancars.com/blog/post/...gnition_coils/.
(2) Which ignition coils are best? | MINI Cooper Forum. https://www.mini2.com/threads/which-...e-best.368249/.
(3) Mini Cooper Ignition Coil Replacement Costs - YourMechanic. https://www.yourmechanic.com/estimat...il-replacement.
(4) Mini bad ignition coils symptoms, causes, and diagnosis - WheelsJoint.com. https://www.wheelsjoint.com/mini-bad...mptoms-causes/.
(5) Mini Cooper & S Ignition Coil Pack Upgrade Gen3 F5 - Mini Mania. https://www.minimania.com/part/G3NME...55-F56-F57-F60.
(6) 2018 JCW Upgrades | Mini Cooper Forum. https://www.minif56.com/threads/2018...pgrades.88178/.
(7) Mini Cooper & S Ignition Coil Each Oem Gen3 F56 F5 - Mini Mania. https://www.minimania.com/part/G3NME...55-F54-F57-F60.

 

I also have the Dinan ignition coils. also have new NGK plugs. do both if you change either. DIY is really easy. cant tell if there is any performance improvement, but my car stopped sputtering ( old plugs looked fine, minimal carbon buildup, gap was correct) on startup and reverse when i changed everything. my car was at 30K miles when i changed them