[joec500]

With the JB3 causing the new hype in piggyback tuning, it seems there are firesales on PROcedes on the used market ESPECIALLY the V2's. So I was able to pickup a V2 for a great price and even with the cost of the V3 PnP upgrade, I was out the door for about $700.

I also opted for the PROcede, as I like the fact Vishnu offers constant free map updates which can be updated VIA reflash rather than having to order a chip. I also like the logging features to troubleshoot issues and the customizable features of tq at any RPM. Enough about the benefits of the V3, as most are familiar, as there are several more I have not mentioned.

My install experience:

The YouTube Video was VERY helpful, I had some issues with getting the large subconnecter back on the ECU, but overall it was VERY straight forward. I took about 2 hours for the complete install, as I needed to keep going back into my apt to download things like Drivers for the USB -> serial adapter etc to update the firmware on the PROcede computer, it would have probably taken me half the time if I did not have to deal with updating the PROcede. Also I took my time to double and triple check EVERYTHING. If I were to do this again, it would take me probably about 30 Minutes at most as it takes some time to figuire out how to push in the various clips etc to take things apart like the sub connectors and pin for the Power. The video really makes things fool proof. As long as you go slow your first time, there should be no issue.

I would rate this at DIY a 2/5 in terms of difficulty. 1 being a bulb replacement and 5 being something like a downpipes. Anything more difficult than a 5 I would never consider a DIY for myself.

The Drive:

Well I just realized I have only been driving around on the default "low boost" map, but MAN!!! The rush from even the low boost tune is amazing to say the least. This is my 3rd turbo charged car, and I must say, the difference between stock and V3 is as exciting as when I first chipped my old B5 S4.

The power application is buttery smooth, and I am not sure if it's just me, but the throttle seems more easily modulated. The pull from 20-80 is UNREAL, as i was merging on the on-ramp, I could not believe the pull when compared to stock. This guy on an older CBR couldn't believe I was hanging with him up to 95MPH (flame suit on for speeding on the freeway at midnight). Obviously he probably wasn't fully pushing his bike, but never the less he gave me knod as he rode away.

Around the city (i live in San Francisco) the car maintains stock driveability and I feel with the better throttle modulation, it increases driveability, but at higher RPMS, the N54 really puts down some awesome power. I must say I love the 3-5k RPM range the best.

Support:

GREAT, I had a question about some issues with my car pre-install, and I received a phone call from Dustin a few hours later... I love that the call back page actually gets a response.

Conclusion:

I know a ton of people have used this tune over the past few months, and some have even moved on to other tunes, but I wanted to give a perspective from a NEWB N54 piggybacker. I have had a very positive PROcede and Vishnu Performance experience. Also I welcome fellow E90 post members to PM me if they need install assistance or a quick spin in my car, will trade labor for booze.

[ala012]

Great Review

[JoeyFiasco]

great job on the review. smart play on the V2 to V3 upgrade.

edit: is the only diff between v2 and v3 the PnP harness? i mean software updates are free correct?

[scalbert]

Originally Posted by JoeyFiasco

great job on the review. smart play on the V2 to V3 upgrade.

edit: is the only diff between v2 and v3 the PnP harness? i mean software updates are free correct?

There are other additions in the PnP harness that are not in V2. So no, it is more than just the PnP functionality. More inputs are used and more functionality was employed.

[joec500]

Originally Posted by JoeyFiasco

great job on the review. smart play on the V2 to V3 upgrade.

edit: is the only diff between v2 and v3 the PnP harness? i mean software updates are free correct?

As Scalbert mentioned there are more parameters that the V3 monitors, but yes all you need to do is buy the new harness and download the free software updates in order to go from a V2--->V3 in order to take full advantage of the V3 upgrades if you have a V2.

[munters]

You can also buy a v.1 and the V3 harness.

[Sniz]

great upgrade! I prefer the Procede to the JB products because of the ease of changing maps. Makes much more sense to me.....that and the new V3.1aasldkgasdhg2342340235273572 update looks great.

oh yeah, and my car is fast as stink and smooth too.

[joec500]

Originally Posted by Sniz

great upgrade! I prefer the Procede to the JB products because of the ease of changing maps. Makes much more sense to me.....that and the new V3.1aasldkgasdhg2342340235273572 update looks great.

oh yeah, and my car is fast as stink and smooth too.

I agree, and with the used prices out there, it prices extremely competitive to the JB3 PnP.

BUT since I am not a super power user of all the features on the V3, I am not sure if I would pay the full 1495 for a new one. But for any Backyard tuner, the V3 is a MUST have. For the set it and forget it crowd, it looks like the JB3 is the great option.

It's great to have options for various vendors.

[dirtyk]

Which tune gives the best high RPM performance?

I hate running out of power near redline!!

[Sniz]

Originally Posted by dirtyk

Which tune gives the best high RPM performance?

I hate running out of power near redline!!

to keep that power...you'll need an intake, intercooler, and downpipes along w/ a tune to maintain max power up top. Make the engine and turbo's breathe easier and you'll get what you want.........now upgrade the turbo's to a more effecient snail and you will really get what you want.

[joec500]

Originally Posted by dirtyk

Which tune gives the best high RPM performance?

I hate running out of power near redline!!

Tough to say....Perhaps you might want to wait for bigger turbos. I know vendors are working on upgraded turbos.

I really wouldn't push past what turners are doing on our stock turbos, I feel we are pretty darn close to the limit of this little turbos. Obviously this is my opinion and I do not claim to any expert by any means, but my logic says that if significantly higher PEAK HP can be had on the stock motor it would have been tapped into by now...Also I rarely push to redline as Peak HP and TQ are probably achieved below the redline.

[roadkillrob]

I would have to argue rating a bulb replacement a 1 - try it - it's a 2 in these cars!

[cn555ic]

light bulb changes on these cars are a PITA!!!

[joec500]

Originally Posted by cn555ic

light bulb changes on these cars are a PITA!!!

Unless you got midget hands for the Angel eyes

I have never done an actual HID bulb replacement. Also I know the E90's are tougher than E92.

[Ghost170]

Great FInd on your proceed. I just recently bought a v3 with pnp for $800. Great deal for great power!!!

[e90AW335i]

Originally Posted by cn555ic

light bulb changes on these cars are a PITA!!!

Depends on the bulb....

To the OP: Congrats on the new tune. The PROcede is a great tuning platform, I am sure you will be very happy with it.