Swapping a base ECU with a NISMO ECU
 

In the spring when my Z sees the light of day again, I plan to do a few modifications. I’ve already purchased a very slightly used NISMO stock exhaust system, which I plan to install with a B&M short throw shifter and an intake system (most likely a Stillen). I would also like to upgrade the ECU program to the NISMO flash, but I’ve heard Nissan won’t do this, and after-market companies haven’t come out with this flash, and most likely won’t.

Here is my question:

If I could find an owner who has replaced his stock NISMO ECU with an after-market ECU, and was able to purchase his stock NISMO ECU, could I install it in my Z without any issues?

great question! +1.. im curious about this myself.. seems like it would work, the only difference maybe is a slightly different map that squeezes another 18hp and 6ft of torque...

Actually, according to Nissan, the NISMO ECU is only responsible for 9 horsepower. The other additional 9 comes from the upgraded NISMO exhaust system, which I already have.

Search for "UpRev" or even "Cobb AP".
Those would be better ways to go...

im holding out until they crack the vvel AND have the option to return the map to stock so the dealership is none the wiser~

I like that idea. My concern is not voiding the factory warranty. Therefore, an aftermarket ECU or flash isn't something I'm really interested in.

When you say "they", who are you referring to?

I still want to know if the NISMO ECU swap is an option.

uprev, cobb, or anyone is THEY lol Apparently the vvel is a tough nut to crack

Do you have the actual Nismo exhaust or the S-Tune?
Just curious

Both companies, Uprev or Cobb have the ability to return to a stock tune. Uprev can do it where you get multiple maps (performance, stock, valet) and Cobb you just re-upload what tune you want.
So far there is no way Nissan would know, they are not as strict as BMW or Porsche.

You will be waiting a long time. VVEL is right around the corner but making it where the dealer doesn't no the wiser is another story. You are really screwed if you want to hide it from the Nissan tech specialist that come out to verify big warranty claims.

I have the actual NISMO OEM exhaust from a NISMO Z. I saw no point in the S-Tune. The design of it seemed pointless. The OEM NISMO is a true dual exhaust (one muffler, but it has two separate chambers), unlike the S-Tune.

Yeah, I'm concerned about messing with the ECU at all because I don't want to screw up the car or have any issues with the warranty. I figured installing a stock NISMO ECU would avoid both of these issues.

You can't swap back and forth if its anything like the 350Z. I had one of the prototype technosquare flashes in my G35 and also one in my Z. The ECU has a security code that is keyed to the car and the key, kind of an anti theft thing, and that has to be reset by a programmer on the new ECU before it can go in.

Why can't anything ever be simple?

lol simple would be nice.. not sure if its worth risking the warranty, especially if its not a significant amount of power gained...

And how much would a Nismo ECU cost and is it worth it for the 9 hp?