Car Tuning & Performance Modifications Flashcards
What is ECU Tuning (or Remapping)?
ECU tuning involves modifying the engine control unit’s software to optimize performance, often resulting in increased horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency.
What is a Cold Air Intake?
A cold air intake system increases engine power by allowing cooler, denser air into the engine, which improves combustion efficiency.
What is a Turbocharger?
A turbocharger uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which compresses the intake air, increasing the engine’s power output without increasing its size.
How does a Supercharger differ from a Turbocharger?
supercharger is mechanically driven, typically by a belt connected to the engine, whereas a turbocharger is powered by exhaust gases. Both increase air intake to boost power.
What is NOS (Nitrous Oxide System)?
A NOS system injects nitrous oxide into the engine, allowing more oxygen to be available for combustion, which significantly increases horsepower temporarily.
What is a Performance Exhaust System?
A performance exhaust system reduces exhaust restriction, increasing horsepower and improving exhaust flow. It often also enhances the car’s sound.
What are Aftermarket Headers?
Headers are performance exhaust manifolds designed to improve the flow of exhaust gases, reducing back pressure and increasing engine power.
What is Chip Tuning?
Chip tuning involves replacing or reprogramming the factory chip in the ECU to improve fuel mapping, boost levels, and ignition timing for more power.
What are Coilovers?
Coilovers are adjustable suspension components that allow drivers to change the ride height and stiffness of their car, improving handling and cornering performance.
What is Weight Reduction in car tuning?
Weight reduction involves removing unnecessary components or using lightweight materials like carbon fiber, to improve acceleration, handling, and braking performance.
What is the purpose of a Limited Slip Differential (LSD)?
An LSD helps distribute power between the wheels more effectively, improving traction during hard acceleration or cornering, especially in high-performance vehicles.
What are Performance Tires and why are they important?
Performance tires have specialized tread patterns and softer rubber compounds, providing better grip, improved handling, and reduced braking distances, crucial for tuned cars.
What is a Short Shifter?
A short shifter is a modified gear lever that reduces the distance required to shift gears, allowing for quicker gear changes and sportier driving.
What is Port and Polish?
Porting and polishing is a modification of the intake and exhaust ports of an engine to improve airflow, increasing efficiency and power output.
What are Camshaft Upgrades?
Upgrading the camshaft can alter the timing and duration of valve openings, which can significantly improve engine performance, especially at higher RPMs.
