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Step-by-Step Guide on How To Remove Speed Limiter On Chevrolet Silverado?

The trendy Chevy Silverado truck has a remarkable topmost speed of 114 miles per hour for its size. However, some trucks incorporate a speed limiter in their engine control unit (ECU) to enforce a lower maximum speed. This limiter is set up mainly to ensure safety with minimized devastating road accidents, safeguard the engine from faster wear off through frequent high-speed driving, and check quicker degeneration of tires with long duration speedy driving. Besides, higher speed raises fuel consumption, which lowers fuel economy alongside more significant environmental harm.

The Silverado driver cannot exceed the speed limit when he approaches the upper-limit speed of the locality as detected by the vehicle sensors because then the onboard computer system immobilizes the fuel and airflow into the engine while restraining sparking that causes engine combustion. The speed limiter can feel upsetting in a rush and is somewhat constraining sometimes. Moreover, the speed limit can be unacceptably low for many drivers in various areas for different reasons. That’s when drivers may consider removing the speed-limiting function, which can be done through some techniques.

Options for removing or disabling the speed limiter

The Chevy Silverado speed limiter confines its maximum speed to 99 miles per hour through sensors on the ECU, gear, and wheels. Removing the speed limiter isn’t a normal choice since most manufacturers avoid readily providing specific information. However, there are lots of repair shops that can do this effectively. Remember that, in some cases, this removal can cost up to nearly $9,000. But first, you need to consider whether the removal might affect your vehicle warranty.

Removing the speed limiter involves adjusting or amending the vehicle’s ECU so that the vehicle gets freed from the Original Equipment Manufacturer’s parameters. Three procedures are available to do so. These are using an aftermarket electronic chip, detaching the speed sensor’s wire, and installing a programmer for the ECU. Any one of these methods can help remove the speed-limiting function of the Silverado, as explained below:

1. Use of an aftermarket electronic chip

The ECU is primarily responsible for implementing the speed limit on the Silverado. Aftermarket chip makers offer multiple varieties of chips, called tuners or tuner chips, which can effectively take out the speed limiter on various trucks such as Chevy Silverado. These chips are attached to the original ones to get the programmed code changed for the required speed limit removal. Attach the tuner to the port marked OBDII on your vehicle and then select the ‘Program Vehicle’ option to get the ‘Speed Limit Off’ operational. Some chips will disable the speed limiter, while others will only deactivate it. Once the aftermarket chip is installed on the computer circuit, it will reset the coding so that the limitations on the power and uppermost speed are erased. Remember to use an aftermarket chip specifically matched for your Chevy Silverado model. An unmatched device will damage your vehicle’s computing circuit.

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2. Detachment of sensor wire

When you wish to make the speed limiter of your Silverado nonfunctional while keeping the ECU intact, you may fully detach the speed sensor wire that maintains this function. But first, it is important to figure out which is linked to the ECU and the ignition mechanism. Ensure you only detach the wire that transfers the gear sensor data and speed values to the ECU. In the earlier Silverado models, speed limiter functions were handled by the Ignition Control Module of the ECU. But in the newer models, this function is operated by an upgraded ignition switch on the computer circuit. Detaching this wire may disable the speed limiter and some safety functions. So, hiring a qualified technician to detach the wire is best to keep all vehicle operations functioning normally.

3. Installation of ECU programmer

This involves a device that can generate computer codes for the vehicle’s ECU. The speed limiter restrictions and other restraints on the vehicle’s horsepower and torque will be removed by resetting the computer chip. The ECU programmer will replace the original ECU status to execute its code. Remember that the chosen ECU programmer must be fully compatible with your Silverado model.

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Advantages of removing the speed limiter

Removal of the installed speed limiter on your Silverado provides the following advantages:

  • Ability to drive faster without having to experience any transmission or engine problems.
  • At higher speeds, there will be less transmission shifting and lower noise from the engine.
  • When driving over long distances, there won’t be a decline in power and engine operations.
  • Saving time by reaching the destination faster.

Disadvantages of removing the speed limiter

Removing the speed limiter on your Silverado can lead to these disadvantages:

  • When a new electronic chip is installed on the truck’s computer circuit, the factory settings can no longer be regained.
  • Detachment of the wire that links the Silverado’s ECU to its Ignition Control Module may also disable some safety features, and your truck may not function properly.
  • Some removal processes are unlawful in some areas and countries because they are unsafe and disable different safety aspects.
  • It may make your vehicle’s warranty null and void.

Efficient ways of attaining the maximum possible speed

removing speed limiter

Whether or not you decide to remove the speed limiter, it is always desirable to reach the maximum possible speed efficiently. Maintaining the vehicle in efficient running condition is the most critical factor in attaining the topmost speed. To achieve this, the best ways are to take care of the following at the outset:

1. Optimum functioning of spark plugs

silverado spark plugs

The spark plugs are a crucial part of the engine. You won’t get the expected speed whenever they fail to function as they ought to. Spark plugs create a tiny spark within a small gap that produces the ignition required for the combustion to start and run the vehicle. It gets the engine’s pistons to keep moving so that the vehicle can have effective power for road travel. When the spark plugs get worn out, they stop working normally, leading to malfunction.

2. Use of new electric fans for engine cooling

All vehicles have fans circulating air within the radiator to keep the engine at the appropriate cool and functional temperature. Earlier model vehicles were fitted with mechanical fans that operated on power from the engine. So those who have those older vehicles will be wise to replace the old fans with the new electric ones. This will help free up some of the vehicle’s horsepower for cruising at higher speeds.

3. Upgraded exhaust system

upgraded exhaust system

An optimally functioning exhaust system boosts the vehicle’s speed. The exhaust intake of the vehicle is essential for efficient performance and speed. A newer exhaust can help to elevate power in the vehicle engine partially.

4. Reduced vehicle weight

Older vehicles were mostly manufactured with much heavier materials. To cut down some of the weight from the vehicle, replace the hood and trunk with those made from carbon fiber. With reduced weight, you can be assured that your vehicle can move faster down any road.

5. Maintaining new exhaust header

A new exhaust header greatly facilitates boosting the vehicle’s horsepower and torque. Whether it has a long or short tube, a new exhaust header will help the vehicle function by circulating the air faster and more efficiently.

6.  Installation of a throttle body with a larger diameter

The vehicle’s throttle body, in combination with the fuel injection system, helps regulate airflow into the engine. This vehicle system is important since air is necessary to fire up the engine properly. Installing a large-diameter throttle body with larger flaps will ensure greater airflow into the engine, enhancing its performance. Any larger throttle body that pushes air at a higher rate can allow the vehicle to accelerate faster.

Questions and answers

1. Will removing the system of enforced vehicle speed limits breach legal requirements?

Although it is not a breach of any lawful bindings to disable the speed limiters from any vehicle, it is generally discouraged by the authorities. This limiter is more like a useful mechanism for ensuring the safety of vehicle occupants from accidents. So, you can remove the speed limiter legally.

2. Can removing the Chevy Silverado’s speed limiter affect fuel use efficiency?

Certainly, it hurts fuel efficiency. Normally, at the speed range of 40 to 50 mph, we can get the optimum fuel economy. But as the speed is raised, the fuel consumption rate also rises. So, when the speed limiter is removed, exceeding its threshold will mean poorer fuel economy.

3. Is the speed limiter responsible for the higher fuel consumption rate?

No. Rather, it helps fuel use efficiency. The speed limiter prevents the driver from accelerating up to the speed range, detrimental to fuel efficiency.

4. What types of vehicles have speed limiters installed on them?

They are mostly heavy goods carriers (like commercial trucks), mopeds, and public service vehicles. It is most often fitted on trucks, including Chevy Silverado. Sometimes, they are also installed on passenger cars, and in some countries, these are set up to limit speeds for only certain kinds of vehicles.

5. Is there any way of overriding an installed speed limiter’s threshold?

You can surpass every speed limiter’s limit by pushing the accelerator down with a force greater than normal. Accelerating away like this is meant to be done only when an urgent or emergency is needed.

Conclusion

An important aim of Chevrolet is to manufacture safe and reliable vehicles, which often means they focus on producing best-suited products for the general consumers, such as making their Silverado truck safe and efficient for driving. We must remain aware that driving any vehicle at 100 miles per hour or more can be hazardous and pose a considerable risk of accidents. So, although removing the speed limiter on the Chevy Silverado is possible, doing so may not be a good idea unless you are skillful, familiar, and experienced with this kind of vehicle adjustment. However, when you need to remove the speed limiter on your Silverado, it is highly recommended that you consult a well-qualified mechanic to avoid damaging your Chevy Silverado.

When a vehicle is fitted with a speed limiter, it often gets a small sticker on the rear end showing its highest speed limit to warn and discourage tailgating drivers from aggressive driving. So, make sure that such a sticker is displayed prominently.

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