nick_sherburn

I’ve seen mixed answers online so I wanted to see if anyone with experience knows if you can tune the oem ECU from factory (I have a 2000 S2K). I’ve read something about how before DBW they’re more expensive or harder to tune or you just can’t tune them from factory. So if anyone knows the answer and what I would need to do I would appreciate the info. Thanks

flanders

2006+ yes.
Models before that is not possible, needs piggyback or aftermarket ecu.

spider2k

the kpro is "technically" oem. just not the s2000 lol.

Chuck S

Mixed answers?! As @flanders , and every note here regarding tuning pre-2006 S2000s states: Simply ain't possible without major ECU modifications.

Don't be discouraged as it can be done, probably 100s of times by members here, just more mechanical, electrical, and tuning work. Can't just plug FlashPro in the OBD2 port and tune like the DBW cars (2006 and later). Any way you can safely drop VTEC below 4,000rpm will transform the car. Forced induction, of course, requires a non-OEM tune.

Possible to not pass smog testing with the modified ECU electronics. I'm willing to bet the California guys have to do major tune reinstatement when that event occurs.

-- Chuck

Manga_Spawn

Pre 06 you can use a greddy emanage or apexi neo but both are piggybacks so there are limitations. If you are only looking to lower vtec and make some minor adjustments they will work. If you are doing anything more you’ll need a full ecu option like kpro, aem, haltech, etc. reach out to tuners in your area to see what they work with before buying something.

randomwalk101

If you replace the stock ECU with aftermarket then the OBD2 port doesn't work anymore thus can't pass inspection (california for example) is this true?

Chuck S

Google indicates Texas relies on the OBD2 test as primary but a Google search also indicates vehicles built over 24 years ago are exempt from smog testing entirely so this may all be just an interesting trivia discussion but no cause for alarm. A percentage of model year 2000 cars were built in 1999 and those built in 2000 have a good chance of being built in May 2000 or earlier-- over 24 years ago -- build date is on the data sticker in one of the door jams.

-- Chuck