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Is anyone currently using the RaceChip on their SL550's? I have a 2015 (out of warranty) and am considering installing one of these on it. I hear good things but wasn't sure if it was worth it as it's a pretty powerful car on its own. Worth it or no? Any bad or good experiences with it?
I would not put RaceChip in R231 (IMHO not an easy DIY in V8, but much easier in V6). Other than Renntech HHT I would not put anything in SL. Yes almost 3 times as expensive, but IMHO worth it.
Is it worth it?
It depends. First off, these engines are virtually indestructible and the race chip tunes are pretty mild. So you won't risk much there. I would personally look at Eurocharged instead; Renntech is also a great option but of course a pricey one.
The fun factor will increase with a tune and your butt dyno will tell you it was a great move but know that the car will actually not get much faster to 60m in some cases slower due to traction issues. So just don't expect half a second drop to 60.
From a roll, the car will definitely be quicker...
Renntech is pricey but works. AMR Tuning is slightly less costly and gives you more tunes for your money. The choice is yours. I was going to go with Renntech but AMR sold me, and it's a beast with stage 1.
OE Tuning 1580 E Edinger Ave, Suite C Santa Ana CA 92705 P: 818-574-5075
I previously owned both an SL 55 and an SL 63. I now own an SL 550. I missed the performance of those. I decided to do my homework, Rentech did get great reviews. I went with OE Tuning due to customer service. My guess is I probably got a kick of 90+ HP, they claim up to 120. I am very happy.
However, I also installed the SprintBoost accelerator which removed any of the factory "lag" so to me, the two belong together. Total investment around $1,500.00. Best $1,500.00 I spent. Of course I couldn't stop there as indicated in the photos. (Old front grill and new front grill).
Wrap, Lowering Springs, Wheel Spacers, and the list goes on.
I used OE Tuning out of California, pricing was good and the concurrent service was great as well.
I also installed (myself, easy to do) the Sprint Boost. Both of these products live up to their claims.
Last edited by FIGHT BOSS; Nov 7, 2020 at 08:22 AM.
Joe- Was the plug and play install easy on the OE tuning? They give you detailed instructions? Can you change back to stock any time you want or do you have a limited number? Only work in sport mode or both eco and sport mode? How much extra HP do you get? Definitely considering this over Renntech.
Hey Keith, Yes it was an easy install, however, I did have a friend of mine who owns an auto shop to do it for me but yes, I could have done it myself. With the OE Tune, you get what is called a "Genius" device that plugs into your OBD port. You then download the program given to your VIN specific code. My guess is I got about 90-100 more HP. Who really knows? But I do like the extra performance with the tune and the SprintBooster (which costs about $300.00) and is really easy to install yourself.
You can remove the tune with the "Genius" in the event it goes to the dealer which is advisable. If I am not mistaken, you contact OE, they then send you a new code VIN specific and you re-install it at no charge. Most people do this so the dealer does not hassle you about it and besides once the dealer plugs into the OBD, I believe the tune is erased somehow.
I would call Ryan at OE Tune 818 574 5075 and ask him any questions you have concerns about.
Hey Keith,
The tune as I know it, only stays in the one "Sport" mode, however, I would call Ryan at OE Tuning in California, all the guys there are very helpful. 818 574 5075
If you are planning the Sprint Booster, now that has two separate modes, fast and faster, lol! Each mode #1 and #2 have 9 variations of power, not sure this is needed, however, it works for me.
During normal city driving I turn off the Spring Boost, you have the control at your fingertips depending on where you mount the control unit. At best I keep it at "5" on the #1 position for city driving. After say, 50 MPH, I tend to go to stage 2 and determine what setting works best for the driving environment (1-9).
Considering price, performance and convenience, I decided to go with OE Tuning (instead of RaceChip and Renntech). It arrives on Tuesday. Looking forward to unlocking even more power!
Or from a friendly forum member! I am selling mine (from my 2017 SL550). PM me for details or check out the market place!
It was phenomenally helpful, creating a much more responsive experience on the SL550, but I have no need for it now on the AMG. 😉
AMG's also have throttle lag. We even have one on our AMG GTC which is more responsive than the SL, yet benefits from the pedal box (which is what we have)
The reality is that you will get quickly used to the quicker car and then start yearning for more... We have a pedal box on the M8Comp which runs well below 3 seconds to 60 and I still feel its sluggish
AMG's also have throttle lag. We even have one on our AMG GTC which is more responsive than the SL, yet benefits from the pedal box (which is what we have)
The reality is that you will get quickly used to the quicker car and then start yearning for more... We have a pedal box on the M8Comp which runs well below 3 seconds to 60 and I still feel its sluggish
Good to know!! I can tell you that nothing has the throttle response that my CTSV had (564 HP and 550 TQ from a roots type supercharger). Talk about immediacy!!
But In the month I’ve owned the SL63, I’ve been pretty darn happy with the pedal feel!
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