What are the disadvantages of adding an external computer to a car?
3 Answers
Disadvantages of adding an external computer to a car: 1. Although the engine power is sufficient after long-term installation of an external computer, it will increase engine wear and shorten the engine's service life; 2. Improper debugging may also cause the engine to explode; 3. The external computer may read incorrect information, leading to accidents. The external computer for a car is a program input into the modified computer chip through the engine ECU. By adjusting some ECU signal parameters, it can enhance certain power, improving the horsepower and torque of each car without increasing fuel consumption. This significantly enhances the car's performance during starting, overtaking, and gear shifting.
With over a decade of experience in auto repair, I've personally disassembled numerous engines equipped with aftermarket tuning chips, and the drawbacks are substantial. The most concerning issue is internal engine damage, such as fractured pistons or connecting rods, caused by the chip's reckless adjustments forcing the engine to operate beyond its limits, sending oil temperatures and pressures skyrocketing. If the ECU electronic module gets fried, the entire vehicle becomes inoperable, with repair costs ranging from thousands to tens of thousands. Warranty coverage is immediately voided, as dealerships refuse claims and shift blame to the owner. Improper installation can also short-circuit the entire electrical system, disabling brake assist functions and posing serious safety risks. Fuel consumption increases significantly—I've seen owners spending hundreds more on gas each month. Exceeding emission standards leads to failed annual inspections and unavoidable fines. In short, these devices are nothing but trouble magnets, far less reliable than factory designs.
I installed an aftermarket ECU to boost performance, but the experience was terrible. The car kept jerking with unstable acceleration, and fuel consumption jumped from 8L/100km to 12L/100km—my wallet took a huge hit. Later, the engine warning light stayed on, and repairs cost over 2,000 yuan after two visits. Insurance didn’t cover the modifications, so any issues meant paying out of pocket. The worst part was the power loss during cold starts in winter, and in city traffic, it felt like riding a pogo stick. A friend’s car had similar issues, even getting fined for excessive exhaust smoke. My advice? Save your money on proper maintenance instead of costly, headache-inducing mods.
