i have a 2000 3.8 v6 pontiac firebird and was wondering if i could put a performance chip in it. I was browsing through ebay and found this chip. for around 35 bucks. Should I buy it, or its just a big time scam?
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Pontiac-Firebird-Grand-AM-PRIX-Performance-Chip_W0QQitemZ200080778994QQihZ010QQcategoryZ33597QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
2007-02-18 17:52:00 · 5 answers · asked by Napalm84 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Car Makes ➔ GMC
Please please please PLEASE PLEEASSEEEEE..!!! DON"T DO IT!!!! And I know that looks dramatic but seriously it is. I fell for the same scam. I bought this "high tech amazing lab designed speed chip" for my car a couple years ago. It was supposed to come with some CD rom and "simple instructions." HAH, ok. I get it, wrapped in a napkin, no CD, no directions. I email the guy who doesn't even respond but just sends you and automatic template of these instructions that not even my mechanic could understand. The part that he said to connect it to was made up. I tried to ask the guy for a refund but with no response. I told all my friends and they laughed that I was out of 20 bucks with a shitty useless piece of wire. please dont make my mistake!
2007-02-18 17:57:06 · answer #1 · answered by citygurl8503 4 · 3⤊ 0⤋
If you are going to buy a chip which is actually a complere programming tool and software, DO NOT buy a used one. The only ones that are any good cost a lot more than 35 bucks. Truthfully though, what do you think you are going to get from a chip for a 3.8L in a firebird. They are a big time dog!! Good luck.
2007-02-19 16:21:58 · answer #2 · answered by Deano 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's probably a scam. Real performance chips add about 5-10 hp buy controling the "choke." The engine thinks it is cooler than it really is. It does not add speed and if you have a speed limiter, chances are the only way to notice it is if you were pulling something uphill on a steep grade.
2007-02-19 02:03:11 · answer #3 · answered by gregory_dittman 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The short answer is there will be little gained (other than headaches) on a stock engine... While not a SCAM per-se, Performance chips only make any real improvement in conjunction w/ other modifications (i.e. Camshaft, compression ratio changes, MAJOR Exhaust modifications, etc.) What usually happens on a stock system is interference with the factory programming/diagnostic routines. for only 1-2 Hp gain.
2007-02-19 17:07:39 · answer #4 · answered by anotherbaldy 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
dont do it i went through the same thing as the first guy.
if u get one buy name brand, and check the sellers feed back
2007-02-19 02:46:16 · answer #5 · answered by jw 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋