BMW engines respond to software tuning like few others. A simple Stage 1 remap lifts bhp, torque and throttle response without any hardware mods.
Below we share dyno data from Stoke-on-Trent customers, explain why gains differ across the range, and show you where to check your own numbers before you book.
Why BMW turbo motors love a Stage 1 map
Most modern BMW petrol and diesel units run conservative boost and fuel targets from the factory to meet global emission and warranty targets.
A Stage 1 calibration tweaks those tables—still well within safe limits—so the turbos spool faster and mid-range torque piles in earlier.
No exhaust, no intake, no hassle; just a smarter file flashed to the ECU.
Real-world dyno results from our Hanley hub
| Model | Stock Output | After Stage 1 | BHP Gain | Torque Gain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW 320d 190 bhp | 190 bhp / 400 Nm | 235 bhp / 480 Nm | +45 bhp | +80 Nm |
| BMW 330i 258 bhp | 258 bhp / 400 Nm | 305 bhp / 465 Nm | +47 bhp | +65 Nm |
| BMW M140i 340 bhp | 340 bhp / 500 Nm | 400 bhp / 585 Nm | +60 bhp | +85 Nm |
All three cars were flashed the same morning, then logged on our MAHA dyno to verify coolant, intake-air and exhaust-gas temps stayed healthy.
Results line up with the figures you’ll get from our Remap Calculator—run your reg and compare.
How much does a BMW Stage 1 cost?
Expect £299–£349 for most four-cylinder models and £379 for six-pots that need extra boot-mode reads.
If you live outside the city ring road, we can come to you with our mobile bench kit for a small mileage fee.
Drivers in Stone and Leek often choose this option to avoid downtime.
What about moving up to Stage 2 later?
If you plan on fitting downpipes or a bigger intercooler in the future, bookmark our Stage 2 Remap page.
Stage 2 takes the gains you see above and stacks another 30–50 bhp on top once hardware flow is freed up.
Does the remap affect insurance?
Short answer: you must tell your insurer, and most add a small premium.
We covered the details—and three UK insurers who rate Stage 1 fairly—in this post:
Does a Remap Affect Insurance?
Torque curve comparison: stock vs tuned 320d
Peak numbers look impressive, but the seat-of-pants difference comes from the shape of the torque curve.
A stock 320d hits full twist at 2,000 rpm and drops after 3,500 rpm.
Our Stage 1 file holds peak torque from 1,750 rpm right through to 3,800 rpm, so you surf the wave in every gear—perfect for overtakes on the A50.
Fuel economy—yes, it can improve
- Extra torque means fewer downshifts.
- Lean-burn cruise mapping reduces fuelling at part throttle.
- Average gain: +4–6 mpg on the M6 run if you drive sensibly.
Booking options around Staffordshire
Head over to our dedicated county page—Stage 1 Remapping in Staffordshire—for workshop directions, mobile coverage map and the live diary.
Slots fill fastest on Fridays, so mid-week mornings are your best bet for a quick turnaround.
FAQs we hear every week
- Will a remap void my BMW warranty?
- BMW can detect map changes, but we keep boost within safe OEM tolerances. If warranty is critical, ask us for the reversible “switchable” option.
- Do I need to upgrade the clutch?
- Stage 1 torque stays under rated clutch limits on all new-shape 3- and 4-series diesels and petrols. We only see slip on high-mileage E90s.
- Can you remap the new G20 330e hybrid?
- Yes—gains sit at +50 bhp and +70 Nm. The electric side remains untouched and charge range is unaffected.
Next steps—check your exact gains
- Run your reg through the calculator to get bhp, torque and price.
- Pick a slot on our Staffordshire booking page.
- Thinking hardware next? Read the Stage 2 overview before you buy parts.
- Unsure about insurance? Skim the insurance guide for peace of mind.
Questions before you book? Call Abid on 074040 22260 or drop us a message—most BMW Stage 1 jobs take under two hours, coffee included.
