How The DiabloSport inTune i3 Improves Performance and Efficiency In Late-Model Vehicles

When it comes to enhancing the performance of our rides, our minds typically gravitate towards components like headers, cold air intakes, and cat-back exhaust systems. However, in the realm of modern vehicles, true hot rodding begins with delving into the software realm. After all, the aforementioned enhancements would be futile if the ECU remains oblivious to their presence.

That’s where devices like the DiabloSport inTune i3 step in. As the successor to the company’s Predator handheld, the inTune systems have brought forth a plethora of innovations that have revolutionized the tuning process, providing not only enhanced convenience but also more robust features. “The original inTune seamlessly continued the legacy of the Predator,” elucidates DiabloSport’s Michael Litsch. “It introduced a significantly smaller form factor, fitting snugly in the palm of your hand and easily storable in a glove box. Moreover, with its WiFi capability, it eradicated the necessity of using a computer for device updates. The inTune, in that aspect, was truly groundbreaking.”

Which tuner would be the perfect fit for my truck?

With its third version now out, the inTune i3 takes a step forward by incorporating faster processing and a broader range of capabilities. It is compatible with the latest domestic vehicle models, including popular pickups and SUVs such as the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, Ram 1500, and Dodge Durango, as well as muscle cars like the Mustang, Camaro, Challenger, and Charger. This device has a well-established reputation for providing performance enhancements for both modified and stock vehicles. However, the inTune i3’s functionality goes beyond simply loading and unloading pre-installed software calibrations.

The inTune i3’s compact size allows for convenient storage in a glove box, providing the flexibility to easily make adjustments or switch tunes on the go.

Performance Tuning, And A Whole Lot More

“According to Litsch, once our pre-loaded tunes are installed, we usually witness an impressive boost of 20 to 25 horsepower at the wheels for stock, naturally aspirated vehicles. However, for factory turbocharged vehicles such as the 2020 Ford F-150 with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, we have even observed a remarkable increase of up to 90 horsepower at the wheels. It seems the factory often neglects to fully utilize the vehicle’s potential.”

The inTune i3 comes equipped with a diverse selection of pre-installed tunes, specifically crafted to unveil the hidden potential of your factory performance. In order to cater to those who prefer a simpler approach, the device offers an Easy Tune mode, eliminating any guesswork during the installation process. According to the developer, this mode is ideal for individuals seeking a straightforward and effortless setup. Whether you desire to select a tune or modify a few commonly adjustable parameters such as tire size and speed limiter, this mode will guide you through the basics step by step. Furthermore, if you wish to make further alterations, the software provides access to more advanced features.

Is it possible to extract additional horsepower with the help of a plug-in tuner?

The inTune i3, a state-compliant device, offers a plethora of features. These include the ability to modify idle speed, control cooling system fans, and adjust the rev limiter. Additionally, for those who own 2014-and-newer GM vehicles and modern Mopars, there is an added advantage of being able to customize throttle sensitivity according to personal preferences.

Litsch also highlights that the advantages extend beyond just enhancing performance. “By fine-tuning your vehicle without altering your driving technique, you can anticipate a boost in fuel economy ranging from half a mile to one mile per gallon, thanks to the optimized efficiency provided by these tunes. Moreover, for certain applications, we even offer a Mileage Booster tune that further enhances fuel economy. This can be exceptionally useful, especially when embarking on a road trip or a similar adventure.”

The device offers the convenience of checking and eliminating any diagnostic trouble codes, while also offering the added feature of data logging through the vehicle’s OBD-II port. According to him, for those who are more experienced and curious about their vehicle’s performance, the data logging function can be incredibly valuable. By analyzing these logs and adjusting the tune through customizable parameters, users can achieve an even more precise and optimized performance.

With its sleek smartphone-inspired touchscreen interface, the inTune i3 effortlessly blends simplicity and usability from the moment you lay eyes on it.

Tune One, Tune All

According to Litsch, the inTune handhelds brought forth an innovative capability of tuning multiple vehicles using a single device. The inclusion of multi-vehicle licensing was hailed as a remarkable feature, known for its simplicity and user-friendliness.

“In case you happen to own a family member’s or a friend’s car that happens to be the same make as the one you initially purchased the inTune for – let’s say, you bought it for your Corvette and now you want to tune your wife’s Camaro – you have the option to obtain another vehicle license for $149 and tune the car using the same device. The process of purchasing this additional license can be done either by making a call or through the update software. Once the software update is done, a storefront will be presented on the device, allowing you to easily acquire the licenses. Whether you need to buy them individually or in sets of five, it’s entirely up to you.”

Is it possible to disable the automatic stop/start feature on my truck?

When questioned about the maximum number of vehicles that can be programmed using a single device, he confidently asserts that DiabloSport is yet to discover any restrictions. “We have never received any complaints regarding insufficient storage capacity for vehicle backups on the inTune. I would confidently state that fifty vehicle licenses would be a conservative estimate.”

Certain vehicles may need an additional procedure to apply tunes because of factory encryption, but DiabloSport has found a solution for that too. According to Litsch, the ’21 F-150 will require a specific hardware to unlock its PCM, which will have its own SKU. However, it will still utilize the same i3 device. On the other hand, for the 2015-and-newer Mopar models, a PCM swap is necessary to apply tunes. We provide two options: either replacing the vehicle’s original PCM with an unlocked unit or purchasing a separate unlocked PCM while keeping the original one intact.

With the tuner’s exceptional data logging feature, one can delve deeper into the engine’s live vital signs, making it a valuable asset for fine-tuning purposes.

Going Next Level

If you’re seeking to take things up a notch, consider the Platinum i3. While it’s primarily designed for off-road adventures in California, it still adheres to street legal standards in other states. What sets it apart is its array of enhanced features. According to the expert, “With the Platinum i3, you gain the ability to fine-tune various parameters such as timing and fueling when going full throttle.”

The remarkable i3 Platinum not only allows you to effortlessly load personalized tunes onto the device, but also enables you to seamlessly install them onto your vehicle. With our CMR software, any custom tune dealer can begin with a duplicate of the stock tune from your device, modify it based on data logging information, and send it back to you for importing onto your device. Additionally, you have the flexibility to load numerous custom tunes onto the i3 Platinum, catering to various pulley setups or fuel octanes, granting you the freedom to make adjustments whenever necessary.

The standard and Platinum inTune i3 models have a unique headphone-style jack at the top of the device, which enables you to connect a dual-channel analog input to the unit. According to Litsch, this feature allows you to record any 0 to 5-volt referenced signal of your choice. This means that you can effortlessly use any widely used wideband sensor with the i3 by simply plugging it in and configuring it in the device’s software. Furthermore, while logging your data, you can easily access your wideband data in the log.

In addition to its scanning capabilities, the i3 possesses the remarkable ability to detect, recognize, and effortlessly eliminate any prevailing diagnostic trouble codes within the system.

Ever-Expanding Roster

While the inTune i3 presently provides assistance for a large number of contemporary domestic trucks, SUVs, and muscle cars on the roads nowadays, DiabloSport consistently dedicates themselves to creating tunes for upcoming models and enhancing the formula for existing ones. According to him, the majority of updates released for the inTune are aimed at adding support for new vehicles or implementing a fresh calibration for older ones. The updates that are frequently introduced are primarily focused on incorporating new features into the device.

Additionally, this feature enhances the device’s capability to adapt to future advancements. For instance, suppose you acquire an inTune i3 to fine-tune your F-150 but later choose to exchange it for a brand-new Bronco. In that case, the initial inTune device will seamlessly function with your nostalgia-evoking SUV.

He highlights that within the realm of Ford products, there exists a single device that encompasses the entire time span from 1996 to 2022. Furthermore, he assures that if the device is compatible, they will extend its support to vehicles such as the 2023 Mustang on the same device once they have created the necessary enhancements.