P38 Diesel chip

Hi, Just bought a 2.5DSE with the BMW unit in it. Year 1999. I want to chip it to give it a bit more power as its a bit slow Its done 110,000 miles but mechanically sound.

Any pointers please?

There are 2 ways to do it. You can get it remapped by having the ECU re-chipped or you can buy a plug and play unit such as a PSI power-box which is plug and play and you fit it yourself. I dont think there is a lot of difference in the price and you will get lots of conflicting advice on here. The one advantage of the plug in box is it is easily unplugged if necessary. Its going to cost you around £300-£350 depending on which way you go.

PSI Power box is the best option IMO. Plug in and away you go. Interfering with an old ECU to chip it can be fatal.

I've got a '97 2.5 dse and a PSI Powerbox was the answer for me. It took about 30 minutes to plug in ( a bit fiddly) but the difference in performance was instant. It pulls through the gears quicker and smoother and has much more power. I've noticed an instant improvement in fuel consumption too. I now get about 25 mpg around town during the week and about 31-32 mpg at a steady 70 mph on the motorway.

I went to Alisport, got their bigger intercooler and chip, really effective and a lot more power. You can get the pump uprated, but mine has given trouble ever since, having over 200bhp is not worth it.

Bear in mind that too much torque will shag the auto box which is marginal on the diesel.