The Ford Custom, a stalwart in the world of commercial vehicles, has long been revered for its reliability, versatility, and rugged design. In recent years, Ford introduced a new ECU (Engine Control Unit) variant known as the SID 212. However, one of the most significant limitations that Ford Custom owners and enthusiasts face is that the SID 212 ECU remains largely untuneable. In this article, we delve into the Ford Custom and explore why, despite its popularity, the SID 212 ECU resists the common practice of engine tuning.

The Ford Custom: A Workhorse on Wheels

The Ford Custom, part of Ford’s Transit lineup, is a workhorse designed for a multitude of commercial applications. It boasts a robust build, excellent cargo capacity, and a reputation for enduring the test of time. Whether serving as a delivery van, a mobile workshop, or a passenger transporter, the Ford Custom has carved a niche for itself in the commercial vehicle market.

The SID 212 ECU: A Digital Brain with Restrictions

The Engine Control Unit (ECU) is essentially the digital brain of a vehicle, controlling various aspects of the engine’s performance. Ford introduced the SID 212 ECU as part of its continuous efforts to improve engine efficiency, emissions, and overall functionality. However, the SID 212 comes with a set of limitations when it comes to tuning.

Why Is the SID 212 ECU Unyielding?

1. Security and Anti-Tamper Measures: Automakers, including Ford, have become increasingly concerned about the potential misuse of ECU tuning for illegal activities or to bypass emissions regulations. As a result, many ECUs, including the SID 212, have bolstered security and anti-tamper measures to prevent unauthorized access and modifications.
2. OEM Control: Ford has been keen on retaining control over the performance and emissions standards of their vehicles. The SID 212 ECU, being an integral part of this control, has security measures in place to prevent modifications that could alter the vehicle’s original specifications.
3. Warranty Concerns: Modifying the ECU can have an impact on the vehicle’s warranty. If the ECU is tuned, and a problem arises, the warranty may be voided. This concern dissuades many vehicle owners from pursuing ECU tuning.
4. Emissions Compliance: The SID 212 ECU also plays a crucial role in ensuring that Ford vehicles comply with emissions regulations. Any changes to the ECU could jeopardize compliance with these standards, which may have legal consequences.

Alternatives for Ford Custom Enthusiasts

While the SID 212 ECU may be unyielding, Ford Custom enthusiasts and owners seeking performance improvements are not left without options. Inverness Tuning offers a solution to remapping this ECU varient. The 2020/21 transit custom fitted with the SID212 ECU can be upgraded by changing the configuration coding within the ECU.
Meaning we can offer owners of all models fitted with the SID212 ECU the opportunity to upgrade from the 105bhp model right up to 185bhp or just a small upgrade to the 130bhp version if preferred.

The cost to have this done by Inverness Tuning will be £100.