Tuning stages are names that brands give to their bundled performance upgrade packages. But beyond what the brands offer, this "staging system" helps you group your own vehicle modifications.
Even though there’s no clear rule about which mods belong to which stage, the automotive enthusiasts generally associate certain upgrades with similar “stages.”
Stock: Establishing a Sound Baseline
Before you upgrade anything, make sure your car’s engine is in great shape. That means:
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Changing all fluids and filters
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Servicing the transmission
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Replacing spark plugs and vacuum hoses
This gives you a clean, reliable base so your upgrades work properly and don’t cause new problems.
Stage 1: Entry-Level Performance Enhancements
Stage 1 is great for getting noticeable power gains without spending too much. Common upgrades here include:
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An ECU tune (either by flashing your stock ECU or using a plug-in piggyback tuner)
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Bolt-ons like a cold-air intake and a cat-back exhaust
You'll get an extra 10–20 horsepower and more responsiveness on naturally aspirated engines. On turbo or supercharged engines, gains could be around 40–60 horsepower, depending on the setup and the engine.
Most Stage 1 upgrades are street-legal and easy to reverse if needed. That said, you won’t get huge gains without adding more upgrades, and turbocharged cars might run a bit hotter—but still within safe limits.
Stage 1.5 / Stage 1+: Intermediate Upgrades for Additional Gains
If Stage 1 isn’t quite enough but Stage 2 seems like too much, the so-called Stage 1.5 is your middle ground. This often includes:
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A high-flow downpipe (with a better catalytic converter)
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Upgraded intercooler (for turbo cars)
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Better spark plugs and ignition coils
You’ll also need to re-tune the ECU to make everything work together. Benefits here include quicker turbo spool, better airflow, and snappier throttle response.
Stage 2: Advanced Cooling and Airflow Improvements
Stage 2 is a big step up in both performance and installation effort. Common upgrades include:
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A larger front-mount intercooler (in forced induction engines)
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Full exhaust system (from headers to tailpipe)
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Bigger fuel injectors and a high-flow fuel pump
Once the parts are in, you’ll need a custom dyno tune to safely manage the extra boost, fuel, and power. Gains can go up to 40% or more on turbocharged setups.
Keep in mind: Many Stage 2 parts don’t pass emissions tests, so you might not be street-legal in some areas.
Stage 3 and Beyond: Full Competition Builds
Stage 3+ builds are meant for serious track cars—not daily drivers. These setups often include:
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Big turbochargers (or twin turbos)
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Forged internal parts (pistons, rods, crankshaft)
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Aggressive camshafts and advanced fueling (like methanol or nitrous)
- A lot of custom fabrication
Instead of using the stock ECU, these builds usually run standalone engine management systems for full control. You’ll also need:
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Race fuel (like E85)
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Upgraded oil and transmission coolers
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Safety gear like roll cages and fire suppression systems
Cars at this level are usually not street legal.
Selecting the Appropriate Stage
Pick your stage based on how you use your car, how much you're willing to spend, and your long-term goals.
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Stage 1 or 1.5 is perfect for a fast daily driver that’s still reliable and won’t void your warranty.
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Stage 2 or higher is best if you’re hitting the track often or chasing big power numbers.
Whatever stage you choose, factor in:
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Part costs
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Dyno tuning for optimum gains
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Extra wear on components like clutch and drivetrain, brakes, and tires
One Aftermarket Upgrade That Delivers at Every Tuning Stage
Tuning an engine does improve the throttle response, but it doesn’t eliminate it completely. The real reason behind the throttle lag that almost all modern vehicles suffer is the drive-by-wire system, and without manipulating the electronic throttle control, you can never eliminate the factory restrictions and get rid of the lag.
This is where the Pedal Commander® throttle response controller steps in. It is the ultimate way to eliminate throttle lag once and for all. And the best part? It delivers on every tuning stage—from stock to full-blown race builds, as long as the vehicle still incorporates the drive-by-wire throttle system.
Pedal Commander®® throttle response controller is a plug-and-play aftermarket mod that integrates into the gas pedal position sensor. It intercepts and modifies the factory signal with vehicle-specific throttle mapping to change the throttle response curve. With four fully programmable modes, you can dial in the throttle response how you like.
With four driving modes (Eco, City, Sport, and Sport+) with nine levels, you get 36 individual settings to find the perfect pedal response. Eco mode allows for better fuel efficiency and doubles as a valet mode. City mode gives you just enough boost to make daily driving exciting, while the Sport and Sport+ modes are where you get the most dramatic gains in terms of performance.
Beyond performance, the Pedal Commander® throttle response controller’s Anti-Theft feature adds extra security to your vehicle. When activated, this feature locks out the gas pedal, so even if someone can break into your car, they can’t drive off. Enjoy this feature for the first 14 days FOR FREE, then easily subscribe through the Pedal Commander® mobile app and choose from two subscription plans: $0.99 per month or $9.99 per year—cheaper than a gas station snack!
