What to Expect When You Get Your Car Tuned

How do I get a quote?

Tune pricing depends on your platform (the family of cars that share your engine and computer) and the stage you want, so we quote each car individually. Our published shop labor rate is $180/hr.

The quote form asks for:

• Year, make and model. This is the most important part.
• Engine or trim, if you know it. For example, "4.0L biturbo" or "Competition." This helps because the same model can come with different engines.
• What you are after. More power, a transmission tune, a stage kit, better throttle response, a check engine light, or general service.
• Current modifications. Anything already changed on the car, including a previous tune and the fuel you run.

After you send it, we will reach out by phone, text or email, whichever you choose, within 1 business day. If you need an answer faster, call the shop.

What information should I have ready?

The more we know, the more accurate your quote. Helpful things to have:

• your car's VIN (the 17-character vehicle ID, on your registration, insurance card or the base of the windshield),
• current mileage,
• a list of any parts that have been changed, with brand names if you have them,
• whether the car has been tuned before, and by whom,
• the fuel you normally use, and
• any warning lights, noises or problems the car has right now.

Already modified, or tuned by another shop? That is fine. Modified cars, other shops' tunes and problem builds are a large part of what we do.

How long does it take?

• ECU-only tunes: most are a same-day appointment.
• Stage kits and hardware installs: typically 1-3 days, depending on parts availability.

We confirm the timeline before you book, so you are not left guessing.

What happens on the day?

When you drop the car at our shop at 1360 Union Hill Rd, Suite 10A in Alpharetta, we will go over the plan with you and confirm what is being done.

Before tuning, we check that the car is healthy enough to tune. If we spot a problem, like a fault code or a worn part, we will tell you before going further. Tuning a car with an existing issue is not good for anyone.

During the tune, the car's computer is connected to our equipment and the new calibration is written to it. It is normal for warning messages to appear on the dash while the computer is being reprogrammed. We clear them afterward.

If hardware is being installed, that comes first, then the tune is set up to match the new parts.

What fuel should I use afterward?

Use the fuel grade your tune was written for, every time. For most performance tunes that means premium (high octane) fuel. If your tune is set up for E85 or flex fuel, we will explain how to use it.

Using a lower octane fuel than the tune expects is one of the most common causes of problems after a tune. If you ever have to fill up with a lower grade, drive gently until that tank is used up.

Is there a break-in period?

For a software-only tune, there is no break-in like a new engine has. Even so, take it easy for the first few drives while you get used to how the car feels. The car may also take a short time to adjust as the engine computer settles in.

If new hardware was installed, we will tell you if any of it needs a gentle period first, which is common with new clutches and brakes.

What should I watch for after the tune?

For the first week or so, keep an eye out for:

• any warning light on the dash,
• rough idle, hesitation or misfires (a stumble or jerk under acceleration),
• a loss of power, especially on a hot day, and
• anything that sounds or smells different.

If anything seems off, call us. It is much better to check early.

What about maintenance after a tune?

A tuned car asks more of its spark plugs, ignition coils and oil, so keeping up with service matters. Our maintenance guide explains what to look after and why.

Ready to start? Send us your year, make and model and we will come back with a real number.