JoeTX
06-22-2005, 09:55 AM
First off I'm not speaking from first hand experience but just from what I've read in these forums. FYI - I have a 2002 WRX with basic mods: cat-less up/down TBE, intercooler hoses.
In my opinion if you're going to use an off-the-shelf map I don't see why you would get an EcuTek over the AccessPORT. I'm sure some will disagree, so flame on and tell me where I'm wrong.
ACCESSPORT
Pros
1. The AP is much more flexible and allows YOU to change your map whenever you want. Stg 1, Stg 2, Valet, Security, etc. No downtime.
2. Consistent maps for all. Some may list that as a CON but not me. You know what you're getting.
3. You get an OBDII reader, basic data logger, and security mode thrown in for free.
4. Less expensive.
5. You have the option of upgrading and doing your own tuning with the StreetTUNER software.
6. Has very high resale value if you decide to go back to stock and sell it.
Cons
1. Conservative maps.
2. It's made by Cobb (only applies if you're one of the anti-Cobb crowd)
ECUTEK
Pros
1. If you investigate enough you may find a vendor with a better off-the-shelf map for your specific mods.
Cons
1. Have to send in your ECU so you have downtime. At best 2 days down.
2. Each map change will cost you $ for the reflash and shipping, and more downtime.
3. Every vendor who sells EcuTek creates their own map. Who's the best? Who's the worst? I would think most off-the-shelf maps are just as conservative as Cobb.
4. EcuTek is just a license for the software program used to create and flash a map into your stock ECU and nothing more.
5. More expensive. Most charge around $650 for the initial reflash.
If you couldn't tell I'm planning to get an AP in the very near future.
In my opinion if you're going to use an off-the-shelf map I don't see why you would get an EcuTek over the AccessPORT. I'm sure some will disagree, so flame on and tell me where I'm wrong.
ACCESSPORT
Pros
1. The AP is much more flexible and allows YOU to change your map whenever you want. Stg 1, Stg 2, Valet, Security, etc. No downtime.
2. Consistent maps for all. Some may list that as a CON but not me. You know what you're getting.
3. You get an OBDII reader, basic data logger, and security mode thrown in for free.
4. Less expensive.
5. You have the option of upgrading and doing your own tuning with the StreetTUNER software.
6. Has very high resale value if you decide to go back to stock and sell it.
Cons
1. Conservative maps.
2. It's made by Cobb (only applies if you're one of the anti-Cobb crowd)
ECUTEK
Pros
1. If you investigate enough you may find a vendor with a better off-the-shelf map for your specific mods.
Cons
1. Have to send in your ECU so you have downtime. At best 2 days down.
2. Each map change will cost you $ for the reflash and shipping, and more downtime.
3. Every vendor who sells EcuTek creates their own map. Who's the best? Who's the worst? I would think most off-the-shelf maps are just as conservative as Cobb.
4. EcuTek is just a license for the software program used to create and flash a map into your stock ECU and nothing more.
5. More expensive. Most charge around $650 for the initial reflash.
If you couldn't tell I'm planning to get an AP in the very near future.