Hello everyone,

I'm new to the forum and I must admit that you are doing a fascinating job in this forum. I have a question:I have just bought the following item

MOD CHIP SKODA FABIA OCTAVIA ROOMSTER 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0 on eBay, also Chips, Performance Tuning Parts, Car Tuning Styling, Cars, Parts Vehicles (end time 22-Mar-08 21:45:21 GMT)

which is actually a programmable chip to be connected to the IAT(inlet air temperarture sensor). Does anyone know where this sensor is located in the engine?Do you think I will gain something from installing it or it will just be trouble?Any of your help would be great.

Put it in the bin.

If you want to improve performance buy yourself a nice washable air filter.

Yeah already did that, here's the pic:

Also have a new exhaust, but the improvement was really not what I expected.Do I need remapping for the ECU?

It's a naturally aspirated petrol engine. Without spending major money you're not going to see major performance gains.

Yeah I know...The thing is that I didn't get the improvement I expected that's why I'm looking for another solution.Do you think I'll damage the engine if I install the chip I bought from ebay?

Possibly damage the fuel injection system and ECU. It's not worth the risk IMHO. If you are determined to tune up that engine save your cash and get some good cams to see a big difference. Otherwise, save hard and get a vrs!

Yeah I know...

If you know, why are you trying? Money would be better spent on handling/tyres etc imo.

I also do not like the sound of the guarantee of the ebay product.

"This product is for race use only (use in closed circuit or track) for that reason it comes without guarantee of any type.The use of the specific product is at your own risk and as with all ‘race only’ products the customer has the full responsibility of any damage to himself ,to others or his/her vehicle.The use of this product will only be on grounds that the customer completely understands and unconditionally accepts the above agreement otherwise the product MUST NOT be used and MUST returned unopened to the dealer for refund according to the seller’s policy."

Ok thanks for your advice!No money right now for a new car though...

Chips are for 'sellers' to bleed you dry.

Any performance chip such as ' Blufin' or any above the £250 are decent.

Best off on manifold, forced induction and the rest of the engine tweeks

Ok I've just wasted 20 pounds. I have the sporty filter by now, will any remapping of the ECU help performance?Can I do it using the vag-com cable I have?

As I understand it, you will not gain much in terms of BHP from a remap on the 1.4 16v, but you will get a torquier, more responsive drive. You can't do your own remaps though, I'm afraid.