Limiting Top Speed in Vehicles: Is Reprogramming Possible?

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In summary: It's probably cheaper than getting a new van though.In summary, it is possible to reset the top speed limit set by OEM, but doing so is not always easy or cost-effective.
  • #1
bhaazee
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Can anyone say me how the top speed in vehicles can be limited (changed). Is it possible to reprogram the top speed limit set by OEM?

Regards.
 
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  • #2
Not exactly sure how each manufacturer does it, but you can set a soft rev limit in top gear on the ECU, it'll do one of several power limiting things. A custom map can change these sorts of things.
 
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  • #3
"but you can set a soft rev limit in top gear on the ECU, it'll do one of several power limiting things" didn't get ur point.

But generally the Vehicle's ECU is non- programmable (I believe). This means how come a custom map can be added?

Assume my vehicle's top speed limit is 180 kmph. I want to give reset the limit to 90 kmph. Considering today's generation vehicles, can I reset the limit. May be I would change this value again later.
 
  • #4
ECU's aren't hardwired, they are essentially flash memory with look up tables. As such they can be pretty easily changed.

In most cases setting a soft rev limit doesn't require a remap, you can plug in a laptop and some OEM (or OEM knock off) software and just type in a number. Not knowing the exact ECU, and how the ECU works means I can't give an exact answer.

Getting the right kit is prohibitively expensive for one job. Seeing the dealer or a 3rd party mapping company is your best bet.


Why on Earth do you want to set the limit so low anyway? You'll likely have trouble in top gear with that on any sensibly geared car.
 
  • #5
Thnx. Well I just want to know whether such a change is possible. But is it legal to reset the OEM values flashed in vehicle's ECU atleast from Insurance point of view?
 
  • #6
It's perfectly legal to do, people get maps all the time. Setting a top speed lower than the car 'as sold' from the factory should (logically) make a premium go down if the limit is done officially, it probably won't though as car insurance people are all gits. Only way to find out for sure is to ring up and ask.

Lots of company vans have it done (you see little stickers saying this van is limited to xx MPH).
 

1. Can the top speed of a vehicle be limited?

Yes, the top speed of a vehicle can be limited through various methods, including reprogramming the engine control unit (ECU), installing a speed governor, or using a physical speed limiter device.

2. Why would someone want to limit the top speed of a vehicle?

There are several reasons why someone may want to limit the top speed of a vehicle. Some common reasons include improving fuel efficiency, reducing the risk of accidents, adhering to speed limits, and complying with regulations for commercial vehicles.

3. How does reprogramming the ECU limit the top speed of a vehicle?

The ECU controls the fuel and air mixture, ignition timing, and other engine parameters. By reprogramming the ECU, the maximum speed at which the engine can operate is limited, thus limiting the top speed of the vehicle.

4. Is it possible to bypass a speed limiter device?

In most cases, it is not possible to bypass a speed limiter device as it is designed to prevent tampering. However, there are some methods that can be used to bypass the limiter, but they may be illegal and could void the vehicle's warranty.

5. Are there any potential drawbacks to limiting the top speed of a vehicle?

Limiting the top speed of a vehicle may have some drawbacks, such as reduced engine performance and acceleration, decreased resale value, and potentially increased wear and tear on the engine due to constantly operating at lower speeds. It is important to consider these factors before implementing a speed limiter.

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