Standalone Plug-and-Play ECU options for the NC?

[SmilesPerG4llon]

I’m in the process of purchasing an MX5, most likely NC, and I was wondering what options there’d be for a standalone plug-and-play ECU? Preferably something which isn’t too expensive as I plan to turbo the car on a budget.

[UKPenfold]

Hi there , no suggestions on standalone ECU but not necessarily required for a turbo install on an NC see post below if you have not already seen ,

MX5 MK3 NC Turbo build guide for £2500 with step by step Videos

I was looking to turbo my MX5 NC 3.5 and the only kit available in this country was about £5.5k. This amount was far too high for my budget and the relative cost of the car. I set out with the goal of turbo’ing the car including tuning for £2500. I have added extras that others may not want or need and that has increased this figure. I have put a spreadsheet link below to all parts purchased including links. Cost turned out to be £2578.27 and with extras £3061.70, pretty damn good! The car is…

[CompletelyDriven]

I think that guys on to something

[CompletelyDriven]

Its only the MK1 and Mk2 that require a standalone ECU. The MK3/NC has a different system and with the right software can do pretty much all you want. ECUTEK is the main one used to tune, once you have paid for a license anyone with the software can tune the car.
ProECU MX-5 - EcuTek

[SmilesPerG4llon]

Thanks, I’ve briefly looked at some of your posts the other day and watched a few of your videos. I was wondering why I couldn’t find any ECU’s for the NC apart from the ME221 and 441, although it makes sense if the standard ECU for it is enough.

So if I buy the ECUTEK software, I can program the standard ECU directly with it from a laptop?

Initially I think I’m going to buy a cheap turbo kit to see if I can do it, and try to tune the car myself before I pay someone else to do it for me.

Also quick Q; I’m assuming this kit I’ve found didn’t exist when you initially did your DIY turbo; Turbo Manifold Downpipe Intercooler Kit For 05-15 Mazda Miata MX-5 NC 2.0

It seems relatively cheap compared to other kits and will cost about the same as it did for your build (if I remember correctly)

[CompletelyDriven]

Hi
Yes, you also need a one off license for the ECUTEK as far as I understand.

I’ve not seen that kit before, but I have to be honest the install looks pretty bad. I haven’t looked to closely at what it includes but a cheap turbo, no electronic boost control, hot air intake, no injectors, No higher bar MAF to name a few that jump out.

For the UK you would need to add on shipping and import tax, also getting it tuned which is which is in my cost.

Its not a kit I would go for, but that’s just my 2 pence.

[SmilesPerG4llon]

Hmm I suppose it’s not a “complete” kit then, cheers