R56 JCW DervTech Stage 2 Tune
R56 JCW DervTech Stage 2 Tune
I wanted to post this thread and provide my thoughts and feedback on the recent install of the DervTech Stage 2 tune that was completed on my 2012 R56 JCW. When the idea to install a tune first came about for me, I came to this forum and others to do my research as I looked for any feedback and insight from those who have installed a tune. The first thing I noticed that the RPM Power tune seemed to be the most popular tune and I even considered going this route because of the availability but also the option to tune the motor myself using an OBD tool where the new file would be emailed to me from an authorized RPM Power installer. I also valued that the RPM Power tune is not a blanket tune (one size fits all) and an actual tune based on current conditions and parameters of the vehicle. It was only then that my preferred shop advertised they were now an authorized installer for DervTech (England) who offers a similar tune to RPM Power that is not blanket but also written to your vehicle's current parameters. Upon research I could gather and review I decided to go this route not only for the positive feedback that was just as good as RPM Power, but also because I could have the tune programmed locally into my ECU by someone who is familiar with the tune's capabilities and parameters but most importantly, someone who is familiar directly with my car.
Considering I had all the components already installed into my vehicle (Aftermarket Intake, Aftermarket Exhaust, Upgraded Intercooler, High Flow Sport Cat) I decided to go Stage 2 to unlock the full potential. The factor that I considered the most important was the option that Stage 2 (full tune) is only applied during Sport Mode. In Non Sport Mode, the vehicle's parameters would run in what is considered a light tune mode which is equivalent to what Sport Mode was before the tune. The last thing required for the tune was the installation of one step colder plugs (NGK 1422). The option to remove the CEL for the P0420 code (aftermarket cat) is also available if this pertains to you as well considering that not everyone does get the CEL for an aftermarket high flow cat. Unfortunately I didn't have that luck and my code was triggered when I installed mine.
The installation of the tune was very straightforward with no obstacles to overcome. My installer data logged the vehicle's current parameters with the modifications installed and sent the information to DervTech with the files removed from the ECM. On the other side of the pond, the tech from DervTech rewrote the files based on the data logged information provided and even reprogrammed my operating temp to remain at approx. 185 deg Fahrenheit during operation which I will greatly appreciate since I live in the southeast where our summer temperatures can be on average of 100 degrees daily. After the installation was complete, another data-logging run was completed to ensure all revisions made to the ECM were within acceptable parameters for the vehicle and it's components.
My 3 hour drive home provided me the opportunity to feel the difference for myself and I was beyond impressed. Not only did it feel like a monster was awoken with the increased power settings but the power band is lineal and not abrupt. I was quick to realize the throttle response is much more sensitive compared to before and because of this, I only like to apply the full tune (Sport Mode) while traveling on the highway where I could use the extra power to pass slower vehicles and accelerate when needed. The 22lbs of boost is achieved in a linear band that is very gradual even in a 6th gear pull.
Despite the increased power, I haven't really seen a decrees on MPG but then again I'm not always in Full Tune Mode. I still see on average 440 miles per tank during every fill up and no adverse effects to my compression readings or oil consumption. I hope this feedback helps those who were wondering about the DervTech tune and wanted other options to consider.
Considering I had all the components already installed into my vehicle (Aftermarket Intake, Aftermarket Exhaust, Upgraded Intercooler, High Flow Sport Cat) I decided to go Stage 2 to unlock the full potential. The factor that I considered the most important was the option that Stage 2 (full tune) is only applied during Sport Mode. In Non Sport Mode, the vehicle's parameters would run in what is considered a light tune mode which is equivalent to what Sport Mode was before the tune. The last thing required for the tune was the installation of one step colder plugs (NGK 1422). The option to remove the CEL for the P0420 code (aftermarket cat) is also available if this pertains to you as well considering that not everyone does get the CEL for an aftermarket high flow cat. Unfortunately I didn't have that luck and my code was triggered when I installed mine.
The installation of the tune was very straightforward with no obstacles to overcome. My installer data logged the vehicle's current parameters with the modifications installed and sent the information to DervTech with the files removed from the ECM. On the other side of the pond, the tech from DervTech rewrote the files based on the data logged information provided and even reprogrammed my operating temp to remain at approx. 185 deg Fahrenheit during operation which I will greatly appreciate since I live in the southeast where our summer temperatures can be on average of 100 degrees daily. After the installation was complete, another data-logging run was completed to ensure all revisions made to the ECM were within acceptable parameters for the vehicle and it's components.
My 3 hour drive home provided me the opportunity to feel the difference for myself and I was beyond impressed. Not only did it feel like a monster was awoken with the increased power settings but the power band is lineal and not abrupt. I was quick to realize the throttle response is much more sensitive compared to before and because of this, I only like to apply the full tune (Sport Mode) while traveling on the highway where I could use the extra power to pass slower vehicles and accelerate when needed. The 22lbs of boost is achieved in a linear band that is very gradual even in a 6th gear pull.
Despite the increased power, I haven't really seen a decrees on MPG but then again I'm not always in Full Tune Mode. I still see on average 440 miles per tank during every fill up and no adverse effects to my compression readings or oil consumption. I hope this feedback helps those who were wondering about the DervTech tune and wanted other options to consider.
Just wanted to jump in and say that my experience with Dervtech and both their US and EU distributors has been fantastic as well. Kyle, Chris and Nick are all fantastic and all iterations of my tune have been great. Glad you agree! Awesome seeing a fellow R56 rocking a Dervtech tune in Florida 
beautiful car!
beautiful car!
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