What is the difference between a control module and a power programmer?
The biggest difference between a control module and a power programmer is installation. A control module is wired directly to your vehicle’s onboard computer, so it mounts right inside your engine compartment. On the other hand, a power programmer is not a permanent attachment to your vehicle. Instead, you plug it into your under-the-dash OBDII port, let it work its electronic wizardry and then unplug it once it’s done. It does not remain installed on your vehicle like a control module does. Another key distinction between control modules and power programmers is how much control they give you over the tuning process. After you splice a control module into your onboard computer system, it simply runs off its internal programming without your input. With a power programmer, there is interaction. When you plug it in, you answer questions about your driving style, if you have modified your vehicle and, often, what fuel you use. Based on your answers, it uploads new settings that are tailo
