This last-minute call-out took us to Carharrack near Lanner to diagnose a 2010 Honda Accord 2.0 Diesel that wasn’t behaving as it should.
The owner reported that the vehicle had previously been remapped and was now suffering clutch slip in the higher gears—a classic symptom that can point to either poor calibration or an underlying mechanical issue.
ECU Bench Read for Accurate Diagnosis
Normally, if a customer wants a remap adjustment or software update, we would work via the OBD port. However, to properly assess what had been done in the past, this Accord required a full ECU bench read.
A bench read allows us to:
- Extract the complete ECU file
- Identify previous tuning changes
- Confirm any emissions modifications
- Safely revert to factory software if required
We sent the file to our trusted calibration partners at Viezu for analysis.
The Real Cause: Mechanical, Not Software
Interestingly, the existing remap itself was not badly written. However, the data clearly showed that:
- The clutch was already nearing the end of its life
- The vehicle had previously had an EGR delete and DPF delete
- The added torque was simply exposing an existing mechanical weakness
This is an important point—and one we’re always upfront about at Kernowsport. Software cannot fix worn mechanical components; it can only mask the symptoms temporarily.
A Sensible, Honest Solution
Rather than pushing more power or attempting to hide the issue, we:
- Reverted the ECU back to the original factory map
- Reduced torque output to stock levels
- Eliminated the clutch slip immediately
This bought the owner valuable time—allowing them to continue using the car while planning and budgeting for a clutch replacement when it’s genuinely needed.
Why Honest Diagnostics Matter
At Kernowsport, we don’t just remap cars—we diagnose them properly. If a remap isn’t the right solution, we’ll always say so.
That honesty often saves customers money and prevents bigger problems down the line.
👉 Book ECU diagnostics or remap support
👉 Learn more about our ECU diagnostics & fault finding
👉 Read about our performance remapping services in Cornwall
👉 See more real-world case studies in Our Work
Professional diagnostics. Transparent advice. Real-world solutions.












