Already upgraded your turbo, injectors, or fuel system?
Then you’re likely ready for a Stage 3 remap—the ultimate performance tuning option for heavily modified vehicles.
At Remaps Nottingham, we help serious car builders and performance enthusiasts unlock every ounce of potential from their upgraded engines. If you’re chasing power figures that leave Stage 1 and 2 behind, this guide will walk you through what Stage 3 tuning really involves.
What Is a Stage 3 Remap?
A Stage 3 remap is a fully customised ECU tune for cars with extensive hardware modifications. It goes far beyond standard bolt-ons. This level of tuning is built around one thing—maximising performance based on your specific upgrades.
Stage 3 is not a generic file or off-the-shelf solution. Every car requires a completely bespoke tune.
It’s designed for those who have already invested in major upgrades and want everything optimised for performance, driveability, and reliability.
What Mods Are Required for Stage 3?
You’ll need significant modifications in place before we can consider a Stage 3 tune. These usually include:
- Upgraded or hybrid turbocharger
- High-flow fuel injectors
- Performance fuel pump
- Larger intercooler
- Full exhaust system (often decat or sports cat)
- Strengthened clutch or upgraded DSG tuning
- Cold air intake system
- Engine internals (in some cases)
Depending on your platform, you might also need upgraded brakes, cooling systems, or even engine mounts to handle the power increase.
Stage 3 is for cars that are no longer “daily driver with a bit of kick” territory—it’s for track-ready, high-performance builds that still want street reliability.
How Much Power Can You Expect?
The gains from a Stage 3 remap depend entirely on your setup. Here are some examples of what we’ve seen with Nottingham builds:
- Audi S3 2.0 TFSI with hybrid turbo and fueling upgrades
Stage 3: 440+ bhp - BMW 335i with upgraded twins and intercooler
Stage 3: 500+ bhp - VW Golf GTD with hybrid turbo and fuel system upgrades
Stage 3: 270+ bhp (from a diesel!)
With Stage 3, the numbers are big—but more importantly, the delivery is smooth and responsive when tuned correctly.
That’s where Remaps Nottingham comes in.
What’s the Tuning Process?
Stage 3 tuning is not a quick plug-in-and-go job. Here’s how we handle it:
1. Build Review & Consultation
We start with a deep dive into your build. What mods are fitted? Are they properly installed? Are they compatible?
This helps us avoid issues later.
2. Diagnostic Checks
We run a full system scan to make sure everything is functioning correctly—especially new sensors, fuel delivery, and boost control.
3. Live Data Logging
We road-test or dyno-log your car to gather real-time data. This is vital for tuning modified engines safely.
4. Custom ECU Mapping
We build a custom map from the ground up, based on your car’s exact hardware and goals. Every table—fueling, boost, timing, torque limits—is adjusted precisely.
5. Testing & Refinement
Tuning doesn’t stop at the first file. We may test and refine the map over several passes to ensure safe, consistent performance.
This isn’t just remapping—it’s engine calibration.
Can You Daily Drive a Stage 3 Car?
Yes—but it depends on the build.
Some Stage 3 setups are surprisingly civilised, especially when tuned with torque management, launch control, and drive mode switching.
That said, these are high-output machines. Expect:
- Increased maintenance needs
- Higher fuel consumption
- More attention from insurers
- A stiffer, louder ride (depending on mods)
Many Nottingham customers use their Stage 3 cars as weekend weapons, track toys, or fast road builds.
Will It Pass an MOT?
Unlikely—especially if you’re running a decat or fail to meet emissions standards.
We always recommend checking with your MOT tester before booking a Stage 3 remap. If you need a switchable map or emissions workaround, we’ll explain the options clearly and legally.
Do You Need to Upgrade the ECU Hardware?
Some platforms (especially newer BMW, Audi, or VAG models) may require ECU unlocking or bench tuning to allow full access.
In some rare cases, you may need a standalone ECU or piggyback system to manage advanced features.
We’ll guide you through what’s required for your specific platform.
Why Remaps Nottingham for Stage 3?
When you’re building a high-performance car, you want to know your tuner is up to the job.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- We offer bespoke ECU calibration, not generic “Stage 3 files”
- We’re local, experienced, and trusted by Nottingham’s car scene
- We log live data and build around your unique setup
- We back up your stock map and offer post-remap support
- We can help with troubleshooting and fine-tuning beyond the remap itself
Our clients don’t just book us for a remap—they work with us as partners throughout the entire build process.
Who Is Stage 3 Tuning For?
Stage 3 remapping is ideal for:
- Performance car enthusiasts building a track or fast road car
- Drivers who’ve already completed Stage 2 and want more
- Tuners looking to maximise hybrid turbo builds
- Diesel owners chasing serious torque for towing or racing
- Petrol-heads chasing 400, 500, or even 600+ bhp
It’s not ideal for:
- Cars under warranty
- Lease or finance agreements
- Casual commuters who just want a bit more punch
How Much Does a Stage 3 Remap Cost?
Pricing varies depending on the complexity of the build and the tuning required.
At Remaps Nottingham, Stage 3 tuning typically starts around £450–£650, depending on:
- Time required for testing and refinement
- Level of customisation
- ECU access method (OBD vs. bench)
- Additional services like DSG tuning or switchable maps
We’ll always quote you fairly and clearly before we begin.
Still Building Your Stage 3 Car?
If you’re still piecing your build together, speak to us early.
We’ll advise on:
- What parts to buy
- What setups offer the best gains for your budget
- What common mistakes to avoid (like mismatched injectors or undersized intercoolers)
You’ll save time, money, and headaches by getting us involved from the planning stage.
Ready to Push Your Build to the Limit?
Stage 3 is where car tuning becomes art.
If you’re looking for serious performance, Remaps Nottingham is ready to help. Whether you’re running a big turbo, building a sleeper, or chasing dyno numbers—our expert team will make sure your remap delivers.
Contact us today to discuss your build, get a quote, or book in for diagnostics. We tune Stage 3 cars across Nottingham, from Clifton and Mapperley to Beeston and beyond.
Let’s get your custom build tuned the right way.
Get A Quick Quote
Please provide your contact details here, and we’ll get back to you shortly with a personalised quote.
