[SpaceGhost]

Can someone succinctly explain to me the difference between Racechip and JB4 and which is better (more power/more reliable)?

My last modded BMW was a 2009 135i (BMS intake, no-name catback, JB3). Back in those days BMS seemed to dominate the mod space. Now I don't see them or the JB4 mentioned as often. I see posts here about Racechip etc but not alot about JB4.

Did JB4 fall out of favor or did the market grow up around them and eat some of their market share?

Just looking to get caught up.

[mike@x-ph.com]

We offer both. The JB4 is the best piggyback on the market, and it's not even close.

A few pros that make users consider racechip.
1- they dont want the longer install
2- they dont want to use the OBD
3- the racechip hardware is nicer quality, and you can change maps with a click of a button without needing to buy the additional Bluetooth kit

[ZPD]

Originally Posted by mike@x-ph.com

We offer both. The JB4 is the best piggyback on the market, and it's not even close.

A few pros that make users consider racechip.
1- they dont want the longer install
2- they dont want to use the OBD
3- the racechip hardware is nicer quality, and you can change maps with a click of a button without needing to buy the additional Bluetooth kit

I will add:
4- Racechip offers an engine replacement warranty


With that said- I just pulled my racechip out because I am doing femto/bootmod so screw an engine warranty

[mike@x-ph.com]

Originally Posted by ZPD

I will add:
4- Racechip offers an engine replacement warranty

That is more of a marketing thing, though, i dont think this warranty was ever used

[SpaceGhost]

Thanks guys. I remember installing my JB3 (and uninstalling prior to service visits). It was tedious but I got pretty quick at it. However, the JB3 didn’t have a OBD plug requirement.

From what I gather from the posts above, the JB4 without the OBD hook up is just a single stage piggy back without the additional maps and safety features...correct?

It would seem that the OBD hookup and canbus data would allow more boost with more safety features than a piggy back without OBD access.

[IanH]

OBD plug just enables logging pretty sure you can run without it installed. Although, the logging is one of the main reasons to go with a jb4 so it would be kinda weird to not use it.

[Dave07997S]

The Racechip does offer the warranty but at $10K that would just cover the installation, won't even touch the engine cost.

[ZPD]

Originally Posted by mike@x-ph.com

That is more of a marketing thing, though, i dont think this warranty was ever used

Absolutely it is a marketing thing and if it has never been needed then good for Racechip. Companies offer warranties because they are confident in their product and want to give customers peace of mind. I am just saying that is a reason that some chose Racechip over JB4

Originally Posted by Dave07997S

The Racechip does offer the warranty but at $10K that would just cover the installation, won't even touch the engine cost.

$10K > $0

[mike@x-ph.com]

Originally Posted by IanH

OBD plug just enables logging pretty sure you can run without it installed. Although, the logging is one of the main reasons to go with a jb4 so it would be kinda weird to not use it.

not just logging but all the additional features including safety failsafes, all the additional maps, limit boost by gear, limit boost by RPM,etc...

without the OBD the JB4 becomes another stage 1 piggyback