OpenECU vs ECUTek vs others...

[tangcla]

So if I was looking at getting my car tuned, what difference is there between OpenECU and ECUtek? in terms of tuneability, driveability, final result etc.

What other options are there other than those two?

[coyote]

On an MY04? I'd go with OpenECU.

A good tuner will get a great result with either one, but the other will permanently encrypt your ecu and you never know when that may cause major headaches.

[tangcla]

On an MY04? I'd go with OpenECU.

A good tuner will get a great result with either one, but the other will permanently encrypt your ecu and you never know when that may cause major headaches.

So OpenECU can be reflashed back to the standard Subaru parameters and nobody would know the difference? And ECUTek can't do that?

[metalcar]

I don't know about going back to standard. But Ecuteck definitely locks your ecu preventing from using other tuning software (open ecu, enginuity etc) from being able to tune your car. It probably does prevent a revert to standard also.

I don't know if it would cause you problems, but it would limit your options when you want another tune.

[coyote]

So OpenECU can be reflashed back to the standard Subaru parameters and nobody would know the difference? And ECUTek can't do that?

An ecutek dealer can flash it back to standard maps (if they have the standard maps), but it will still have an encrypted boot loader and Subaru won't be able to flash the ecu.

With OpenECU, you could flash it back to a state identical to when it left the factory. It would be totally impossible to tell it was ever modified.

I'm actually considering ecutek for my MY08, but only because I have access to a friendly ecutek tuner and OpenECU looks like being such a long way off for my car.

[tangcla]

I think OpenECu sounds like the way to go for me then... !

[SkoobyGT]

I found out that I have OpenECU as well, not ecutek, can't complain.

[Akwoo]

THE TUNER
To make a decision on this, the most important thing is finding a really good tuner. Once you have found a good one that would stick by, then most likely you won't be changing tuners very often. So it doesn't matter there are more openecu tuners than ecutek tuners.

Ecutek encryption is a good thing, I don't want anyone touching my ecutek who hasn't been trained using the software. Ecutek tuners regularly go on training courses. Its just like I don't want someone without Java programming working on the next internet banking website (obviously I work in IT). A bit overexagerate, but u get the jist.

Power
How much power you want in the end?
Up to 200-220KW - Ecutek / OpenECU / Haltech Interceptor
220 KW + - Haltech Interceptor / Whole computer replacement (APEXi Power FC requires removal of electronic throttle control)
Others? - AVO - no idea, HKS F-con IS + OSC (Only HKS Tuner in Perth)

OpenECU and Ecutek - DRAW
On the MY05 and looking at everyones results, both OpenECU and Ecutek have been getting similiar results e.g. SkoobyGT OpenECU 150kw compared to my Ecutek 150kw, similar mods, however SkoobyGT has gfb pulley and AUTO.

Driveability
Haven't had chance to compare, maybe next Sydney meet I go to, I'll do comparison.

Number of Tuners
OpenECU more tuners than Ecutek tuners.
Doesn't matter, find an awesome tuner.
So far I can recommend following

Adelaide - S&J Automotive ECUTEK
Sydney - Pulse Racing OpenECU / Haltech Interceptor
Sydney - Autotech Engineering ECUTEK (apparently Spiro doesn't do Libertys??)
Canberra - Ultimate Tunes ECUTEK (did my car)
Canberra - ESP Racing Haltech Interceptor (most powerful WRX in OZ Diablo)

Support
Ecutek - Phone call away Tuner or Ecutek directly.
OpenECU - call tuner or some programmer in India.

[AndrewCowley]

Thanks icandy. Your summary above is one of the best posts I've ever seen on this forum. Looks like a well informed summary to me. I'll be booking in at Pulse in Sydney in the near future.

[GTSPECB STI]

plus 1 for icandy post. The tuner is key to a good tune. Openecu and ecutek are just the tools for tuning.

I have mine down on list with Maximum Motorsport here in Perth to do Ecutek 3 tune on my Libo in December. MM are owned by Rob and Dean Herridge who have a very good reputation for tuning, modding and racing Subaru's. I will post results once done.

[tangcla]

I'm most likely going to be going to Raymond Ong @ Technik Tuning. I trust his tuning.

[BlackGT]

I found out that I have OpenECU as well, not ecutek, can't complain.

Time to change your signature and promote OpenECU