Get answers to the most common questions about HP Tuners tuning devices, remote tuning, PCM unlocking, and N2 Speed's services. Whether you're a first-time customer or a seasoned enthusiast, we've got you covered.
HP Tuners MPVI vs. RTD 4 — What's the Difference?
Two of the most common questions we get: "Which HP Tuners device do I need?" and "What's the difference between the MPVI and the RTD?" Both are OBD-II interface devices made by HP Tuners, but they serve very different purposes.
MPVI (MPVI2 / MPVI3 / MPVI4)
- Read, edit, and write tune files yourself
- Full VCM Suite access (VCM Editor + VCM Scanner)
- Requires a laptop or PC to operate
- Diagnostics, data logging, and scanning
- Standalone data logging (MPVI3/MPVI4)
- Pro Feature Set for external sensor inputs
- Best for: tuners, shops, and DIY enthusiasts
- Current model: MPVI4 — starting at $399.99
RTD Gen 4 (RTD4)
- Flash professionally built tunes via smartphone
- Works with the TDN app (iPhone & Android)
- No laptop required for basic operations
- Read vehicle data and send it to your tuner
- Clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- Supports 300+ vehicle controllers
- Best for: customers getting tuned by a pro shop
- Starting at ~$299.99 (device only, no credits)
| Feature | MPVI (MPVI2/3/4) | RTD Gen 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Full tuning & diagnostics | Remote tune delivery |
| View & Edit Tune Files | ✓ Yes (VCM Editor) | ✗ No — tune stays locked |
| Flash / Write Tunes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes (via RTD Flasher / TDN) |
| Read Vehicle Data / Stock File | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Diagnostics & DTC Clearing | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Data Logging | ✓ Full (VCM Scanner) | ✓ Yes (VCM Scanner) |
| Smartphone Flashing (TDN App) | ✓ MPVI2+, MPVI3, MPVI4 | ✓ Yes — primary method |
| Laptop / PC Required | Yes — for editing & full features | No — smartphone is all you need |
| VCM Editor Access | ✓ Included | ✗ Not supported |
| Pro Feature Set | ✓ Included (MPVI3/4) | ✓ Available with Pro Link+ |
| Ideal User | Tuners, shops, DIY enthusiasts | Customers of a professional tuner |
| Availability | Open retail — anyone can buy | Through authorized HP Tuners dealers only |
| Starting Price (device only) | ~$399.99 | ~$299.99 |
Which Device Is Right for You?
Choose the MPVI if you want to do your own tuning, need full access to VCM Editor, or plan to tune multiple vehicles yourself. It's the complete toolbox for anyone who wants hands-on control of their calibration.
Choose the RTD 4 if you're working with a professional tuner (like N2 Speed) for remote tuning. The RTD lets you read your stock file, send datalogs, and flash your custom tune — all from your phone. Your tuner handles the calibration work; you just plug in, flash, and drive.
Both devices use HP Tuners' universal credit system. Credits are required to license each vehicle controller and are purchased separately based on your vehicle's year, make, and model.
Remote Tuning FAQs
How does remote tuning work with N2 Speed?
Remote tuning lets us build a custom calibration for your vehicle without it being in our shop. You use an HP Tuners device (MPVI or RTD) to read your vehicle's stock file, then send it to us along with a datalog. We build your custom tune, send it back through the TDN app or email, and you flash it to your vehicle. We typically go through a few revision cycles using your datalogs to dial everything in perfectly.
Do I need a laptop for remote tuning?
If you have an RTD 4, no — the entire process (reading, flashing, datalogging, clearing codes) can be done from your smartphone using the free HP Tuners TDN app on iOS or Android. If you have an MPVI2 (non-plus), you'll need a laptop. MPVI2+, MPVI3, and MPVI4 all support the TDN app as well.
What are HP Tuners credits and how many do I need?
HP Tuners uses a universal credit system to license each vehicle controller (PCM, TCM, etc.). The number of credits required varies by vehicle — typically 2 to 8 credits depending on the year, make, model, and which modules need to be tuned. Once a controller is licensed to your device, you can read and write to it unlimited times. Contact us and we'll tell you exactly how many credits your vehicle requires.
Can I use my HP Tuners device on more than one vehicle?
Yes. Both the MPVI and RTD support multiple vehicles — you just need enough credits to license each vehicle's controller(s). Credits are tied to the device, not to a single vehicle.
PCM Unlocking FAQs
What is PCM unlocking?
On 2015+ Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and RAM vehicles, the factory PCM (Powertrain Control Module) is locked from the factory, preventing aftermarket tuning. PCM unlocking removes this restriction so the module can be read and written with tuning software like HP Tuners. This is a required step before any custom tuning can be done on these platforms.
Does my vehicle need a PCM unlock?
If you have a 2015 or newer Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, or RAM, your PCM almost certainly needs to be unlocked before tuning. Most GM and Ford vehicles do not require a PCM unlock. Not sure? Contact us with your year, make, and model and we'll let you know.
Do I need to ship my PCM to N2 Speed?
In most cases, yes. You remove the PCM from your vehicle, ship it to us, we unlock it and ship it back — typically within 1–2 business days of receiving it. We also offer in-house unlocking if you're local to the Pompano Beach, FL area.
Tuning & Performance FAQs
What vehicles does N2 Speed tune?
We specialize in Dodge (Charger, Challenger, Durango), RAM trucks, Jeep, GM vehicles (Camaro, Corvette, Silverado, Sierra), and Ford. We handle both naturally aspirated and forced-induction setups including superchargers, turbo kits, and ProCharger systems. Contact us with your specific setup for confirmation.
What's the difference between a dyno tune and a street tune?
A dyno tune is performed on a dynamometer where we can measure actual horsepower and torque output in a controlled environment while making real-time adjustments. A street tune (remote tune) is built from datalogs you capture while driving. Both methods produce excellent results — a dyno just gives us more precise, repeatable data. Visit our Dyno Tune vs Street Tune page for a detailed breakdown.
Is tuning safe for my engine?
When done by an experienced professional, custom tuning is safe and can actually improve engine longevity by optimizing air-fuel ratios, spark timing, and transmission behavior for your specific modifications. We build every tune conservatively with safety margins and rely on real datalog feedback to dial in the calibration. We never use generic "canned" tunes.
Will tuning void my warranty?
Tuning can potentially affect your factory warranty under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. However, a dealer must prove that the tune directly caused the specific failure in question. Many of our customers tune their vehicles without warranty issues, but it's a personal decision. We recommend understanding the risks before proceeding.
Shipping & Orders
Do you ship nationwide?
Yes. We ship performance parts, tuning devices, and unlocked PCMs to all 50 states. Remote tuning services are available to customers anywhere in the country — that's the beauty of remote tuning with HP Tuners.
How do I contact N2 Speed?
Call us at (954) 406-8550, email sales@n2speed.com, or visit us at 1461 SW 30th Ave, Bay 16, Pompano Beach, FL 33069. You can also reach us through the Contact Us page on our website.
Ready to Get Tuned?
Whether you need an HP Tuners device, a PCM unlock, or a full custom calibration — N2 Speed has you covered. Remote tuning available nationwide.