Maximising Towing Power with a Remap – Leicestershire Case Study
Towing heavy loads can reveal every weakness in torque delivery. In this case study, a 2019 Octavia vRS went from 155 bhp and 310 Nm to 185 bhp and 365 Nm after a Stage 1 remap. Here’s how we did it in your driveway and why it matters for any tow-happy driver in Leicestershire.
Customer Goals & Challenges
The owner uses a twin-axle trailer for equestrian events. Key needs were:
- Stronger pull at low RPM (<1,500 rpm).
- Consistent boost under load.
- No excessive engine temperatures on long hauls.
Factory tune fell short. The car entered limp mode when the trailer weight pushed boost over limits.
Diagnostic & Preparation
- Full health check: No underlying faults in turbo, injectors or cooling.
- Backup stock ECU map via KESS tool.
- Recorded baseline data: boost curve, AFR (air-fuel ratio), and exhaust temperatures.
Dyno Results & Analysis
| Metric | Before | After |
|---|---|---|
| Max Power | 155 bhp | 185 bhp |
| Peak Torque | 310 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Boost Pressure | 1.2 bar | 1.4 bar |
| Exhaust Temp (@ full load) | 850°C | 790°C |
Notice the temperature drop—our tune slightly leaner AFR under heavy load to protect components.
On-Road Feedback
- Smoother Low-End Pull: Felt from 1,200 rpm onward, no lag when towing.
- Confident Overtakes: Extra mid-range torque made passing easier on country lanes.
- Thermal Stability: Temperatures stayed within safe limits even after 50-mile haul.
- Fuel Impact: Minimal change—around +2% fuel consumption, offset by fewer limp events.
Time & Process
Total time: 3 hours onsite. Breakdown:
- Diagnostics & prep: 30 mins
- ECU backup: 20 mins
- Dyno tuning & map adjustments: 90 mins
- Final road test & data logging: 40 mins
Why This Matters for You
If you tow caravans, trailers, or horseboxes, every Nm counts. A tailored Stage 1 remap reduces stress on your drivetrain and gives peace of mind on long journeys.
Combine with Other Services
- DPF Solutions – keeps filters clear for long hauls
- EGR Solutions – prevents intake clogging under load
- AdBlue Solutions – eliminate SCR faults on long routes
Next Steps
Looking for towing gains? Book your Stage 1 remap or explore all services. More studies in our Blog sitemap.
