Ford Transit Custom SID212

We have a range of tuning solutions for the highly regarded MK9 Ford Transit, in this blog we break down each option, and explain the advantages & disadvantages of each option.

The Ford Transit Mk9 is fitted with the Siemens SID212 Engine Control Unit (ECU), which comes locked from factory, meaning a traditional ECU remap was not previously an option – until now.

The Siemens SID212 ECU is used primarily in the 2.0L EcoBlue engines, such as the Transit, Transit Custom, Ranger, Focus (MK4 Diesel Variants) and more. This ECU is one of the most secure on the market, featuring the latest Siemens protection which historically made it impossible to modify with mainstream remapping equipment.

Due to the popularity of these vehicles, and the overwhelming response of the 2.0L EcoBlue engine being severely underpowered, we had to overcome the issue and provide meaningful and reliable ways to achieve more power, and here’s what we have done.

Option 1: OEM ECU Upgrade

Due to the modular design of the Transit’s engine, the 105 PS, 130 PS, 170 PS, and 185 PS models all share the same hardware. So, why does Ford & other manufacturers deliberately de-tune models?

Modular Manufacturing is a cost saving exercise which allows fewer production lines by fitting the same engine and components to a model but applying different "end software" or "power variants" to different model versions. Manufacturers, such as Ford, also need to build vehicles capable of different environments which can perform at high & low altitudes – for examples, the temperature and conditions will differ in India compared to the freezing winter in Russia.

Lower horsepower variants are common with Fleet owners who wish to keep their drivers speeds in check, and insurance premiums down. Typically, owner drivers on the other hand, often want more power from their vehicles. Introducing the OEM ECU Upgrade – If you take the 105PS 2.0L EcoBlue Transit, extremely underpowered and can struggle tackling incline when towing or with a full load. We can safely upgrade your ECU coding to deliver the full 185 PS, using our diagnostic equipment — no need to remove or unlock the ECU – the existing software is simply upgraded with Ford’s very own software from the higher horsepower variant. This makes the OEM ECU Upgrade a safe, reliable and popular option.

As you may have guessed, this simple power increase is extremely popular with the lower horsepower variants, if you have the 170PS variant, you do have the option to increase power to 185PS, however the gains are modest and not always noticeable – leaving you wanting more. With the 185PS model you are unable to increase this with the OEM ECU upgrade, as it is already the highest power variant.

OEM ECU Upgrade - £249 Inc VAT

Advantages:

• Safe and reliable – uses Ford’s own software, not aftermarket tuning
• No need to remove or unlock the ECU
• Cost-effective compared to other tuning methods
• Immediate and noticeable gains on low-output models (105PS/130PS)
• Maintains factory reliability and drivability

Disadvantages:

• Gains are modest on higher variants (170PS → 185PS)
• No upgrade available if you already have the 185PS model
• Limited tuning flexibility – locked to factory power variants

Option 2: Dimsport Rapid Turbo Power Management (TPM)

For those looking to achieve more performance than factory 185PS, we have you covered! At our Bristol Headquarters, we have carried out extensive research and development with Dimsport to provide a truly fantastic Tuning Module; Dimsport Rapid TPM.

Programmed with our very own custom Avon Tuning map settings results in an incredible increase of 30hp and 60nm over stock on all power variants!

Those with the lower output engines (105PS / 130PS) can see some phenomenal results – a complete transformation of performance and driveability, when combining the OEM ECU Upgrade with the Dimsport Rapid TPM.

In the below Performance Graph you will see a 105PS Transit Custom, OEM ECU Upgraded to the 170PS (185PS was not an option on this software variant), combined with an Avon Tuning Tuned Rapid TPM – gains of 86hp & 173nm - and best of all, it’s a warranty-safe solution!

Dimsport TPM Plug-In Module - £648 (Inc VAT)

The Dimsport Rapid TPM has been developed for the latest generation of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines. The modules are equipped with a Microprocessor, FLASH EEPROM and RAM EEPROM to gain full control of the relevant pressure sensors. The modules can intervene and control CAN BUS signals and can even handle the latest SAE J2716 SENT communication protocols.

These capable Tuning Modules are a Warranty ‘Safe’ option and DIY fitment is available as they simply plug into a few sensors in the engine bay. When you no longer need the additional power, or, you are selling the vehicle, you simply disconnect the module, and the vehicle is back to factory original settings. But that's not all – you can then transfer this module onto a new vehicle. A new wiring harness and module reprogram may be required, but the tuning module is transferrable.

Advantages:

• Adds up to +30hp and +60Nm on its own
• Can be combined with OEM ECU Upgrade for massive gains (e.g., +86hp & +173Nm)
• Plug-and-play installation – no ECU removal or unlocking required
• Warranty ‘safe’ solution – easily removable before dealer visits or resale
• Transferable to future vehicles (new harness and module reprogram may be required)
• Can be purchased on our online store – click here

Disadvantages:

• Higher cost than OEM ECU upgrade
• Not as precise as a full custom remap (limited to module parameters)
• Physical module install required in the engine bay

Option 3: Traditional Stage 1 ECU Remapping

There is no doubt a professional, well-engineered remap is the best way to tune any vehicle. Once the ECU is unlocked, we have full control of all engine parameters and can fully customise the map to the customer's needs.

Following recent break throughs in the remapping equipment industry has meant that the SID212 ECU has now been cracked and can be ‘unlocked’ and then tuned with mainstream equipment. We have now successfully remapped dozens of SID212 ECUs and conducted extensive research and development across all power variants of the EcoBlue engine. In order to unlock your ECU, it will need to be carefully removed from the vehicle and sent to a specialist unlock centre, but don’t worry we can take care of this for you.

Our proven expertise ensures reliable, performance focused results tailored to your Transit.

Stage 1 Remap – £900 (inc. VAT)

Our Stage 1 Remap package includes:

• Full diagnostic health check
• Removal of ECU and fully insured transport to unlock centre
• Custom Stage 1 ECU remap
• Before and after rolling road session

Estimated Time: 3 days (we recommend allowing up to 1 week for potential shipping delays)

Stage 1 ECU Performance Statistics

Stock:

Horsepower: 105hp   Torque: 360nm

AT Tuned:

Stage 1 Horsepower: 215hp   Stage 1 Torque: 460nm

Advantages:

• Maximum power and torque gains – fully custom to your vehicle
• Complete control of all ECU parameters (fuel, boost, torque limiters, etc)
• Can be tailored to driving style/ customer requirements
• Proven R&D ensures reliability and strong performance gains

Disadvantages:

• Most expensive option
• ECU must be removed and unlocked – making overall process longer
• Turnaround can take 3–7 days (depending on shipping)
• Potentially detectable by manufacturer during warranty checks

Final thoughts

The Siemens SID212 ECU has long been considered one of the toughest to unlock, but the demand for more power from Ford’s EcoBlue engines has pushed development forward. Whether you’re looking for a safe and reliable OEM ECU upgrade, a plug-in performance boost with the Dimsport Rapid TPM, or a full Stage 1 ECU Remap, we now have proven solutions to suit every requirement and budget. Each option has been extensively tested by our team at Avon Tuning to ensure dependable results, giving your Transit the performance it needs.

Still unsure which option is best for you? Get in touch with our expert team to discuss your options!