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Frequently Asked Questions

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Should I remove my modifications before going to the dealer?
Most leave parts like ECU tunes and intakes on for basic oil changes and service. We normally suggest removing any modifications prior to making a warranty claim. This is to ensure they are not causing the problem, and to make things easier for your technician who may not be familiar with how to properly remove and reinstall your modified parts. BMS tuners are diagnostically invisible, so the dealer may do ECU software updates and diagnostics with them installed without detection or issue.

What tune is better, the JB3, PROcede, or a flash?

Based on recent forum polls, the JB3 is the "more popular" tuner, due to its perfect blend of performance, drivability, reliability, customer support, and value. The PROcede offers similar performance with a couple of additional features for $1095. Flashes offer similar performance but can not be installed/removed easily and are not warranty friendly. 
Click here for a detailed comparison sheet between the three.


What is the difference between the JB+ and the JB3?
The JB+ features a faster install and does not require you to touch the ECU. The JB3 is a more robust system including map switching, direct boost solenoid control, throttle position mapping, and many other additional features that allow it to produce a lot more power. On average the JB+ gives 40-50hp to the wheels, while the JB3 gives 70-80hp to the wheels, on an otherwise stock car.


What is the difference between the JB3 PnP and the JB3 pin out / professional?
The tuning and performance is identical between the two. The PnP model features full BMW ECU connectors eliminating the need to count and extract individual wires. Installation/removal on the PnP is approximately 15-20 minutes faster. Both are 100% reversible without a trace. The JB3 pin out can be upgraded to the JB3 PnP by purchasing the PnP upgrade kit under "upgrades".

Why doesn't the JB3 include a 155mph speed limiter removal?
While "clamping" the hardwired speed signal to the ECU as other piggybacks do will allow the vehicle to exceed 155mph, the true vehicle speed is recorded by the stability control module and other modules using sensors at each of the four wheels. These modules will always contain the true vehicle speed regardless of the ECU clamp, and in the event of a warranty claim may reveal the car has been modified. For those customers who are out of warranty and fully aware of the extreme risks and danger in operating their vehicle in excess of 155mph on race tracks, BMS offers a stand alone speed delimiter. Email us for details.

I'm interested in an intake, but won't the exposed filters just suck in hot air?
The short answer is yes, they will ingest hotter air, but a lot more of it. The end result is actually cooler air entering the engine. This is because you are reducing the huge pressure drop across the factory airbox, dramatically improving the efficiency of the compressors. The BMS intakes also significantly reduce impeller speed improving reliability.

Wouldn't it be best to have an open element filter ducted to fresh air?
The short answer is yes, but the devil is in the details. With the packaging requirements of the N54 motor most "cold air intakes" use an inadequate 3" piping ducted to a single filter in the fender. In addition to being too small to support higher power levels, the additional bends and twists reduce intake flow resulting in suboptimal top end performance. After months of testing various hot and cold designs, including various heat shields, we feel the BMS intakes offer the best blend of performance and value. They are used on the worlds most powerful N54s.

Are the JB tuners compatible with my automatic transmission?
Yes! Not only is the JB compatible with the automatic transmission, but the automatic N54s are generally faster than their manual equipped counterparts when it comes to straight out acceleration. Manuals tend to do better on the road courses though.

Are the JB tuners compatible with my Xdrive equipped vehicle?
Yes! In fact BMS has several Xdrive customers running in the 11s. The extra torque really wakes the heavier Xdrive system up, and the additional traction makes for a great combination.

Are JB and Power Box tuners compatible with exhausts, intakes, blow off valves, and other modifications?
Although no additional modifications are required the JB and PBX tuners are compatible with all intakes, exhausts, intercoolers, and BOV/DVs. No additional or special tuning is required as boost, timing, and air/fuel systems are fully closed loop.

How long will my order take to get here?
2-3 business days in the United States and 4-7 business days world wide.
All orders are shipped USPS, United States Postal Service.

BMW Paddle Shift related FAQ?
Located at the bottom of the paddle shift page. (click here)


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