I recently installed the ALTA Cold Air Intake.. I've been real happy with it so far..
Next will be exhaust!!

 

My first question would be this. Do you have the N14 engine? If so, the most important upgrade is the timing chain tensioner issue

 

Stages 1 & 2 can be installed by sending your ECU to a Manic dealer. Stages 3 & 4 are "customized" to the entire car --- datalogging, etc. The SPS module is nothing more than a rotary switch mounted in a box --- pretty much useless without having the maps installed.

I had what I thought was a real screamer before my Manic install. The Manic tune bought me another 15% HP and torque --- one of the best investments I've made, so far.

 

@oldbrokenwind
You seem to be familiar with Manic Tune. I have a 2008 R56 with AEM intake, Forge recirc BOV, Magnaflow exhaust w/catless downpipe. i decided to go with Manic stage 2 Tune. I recently installed a boost gage to know what I was boosting and am not getting more than about 8psi boost at 5000 RPM. Does the tune control the boost or could I have a boost leak?

 

Sorry for the delayed response --- I was out of town and I'm not mobile connected.

My turbo is aftermarket and it's NOT ECU controlled --- I use a Manual Boost Controller and external BOV. I've never monitored the OEM turbo, so its performance characteristics are unknown to me.

As for Manic, I'm not the one to describe how boost is controlled. You need to talk with your Manic installer. I'm told that OEM turbos are controlled by the load detected at the ECU, not necessarily by RPM alone. You might try watching your boost gauge while under hard acceleration in 3rd and / or 4th. Not the safest way to drive, so maybe have a passenger watch the gauge for you? Or, data log if you have the equipment? If you still don't get more than 8PSI, you probably need professional help diagnosing the problem.

I've had my share of boost leaks, and I almost always get a "limp mode" CEL. The ECU monitors how much air is taken in (the MAF) and calculates somehow, when and where it's used. When things don't add up, the ECU will tell you. Maybe double check your Forge BOV for bypass leaks, not external leaks. Can you re-install the OEM version?