How to Remove Speed Limiter on GMC Sierra

Many modern cars are equipped with a speed limiter, which is a mechanism that restricts the vehicle’s top speed. While designed to protect drivers and passengers, this feature can become a nuisance when you’re in a hurry or want to experience an adrenaline rush.  Learn the step-by-step method on how to remove speed limiter on GMC Sierra.

 

It is not uncommon to want a GMC Sierra to generate more horsepower and torque. The truck’s max speed value is restricted to 99 miles per hour with the help of a speed limiter. This top speed can be too low for some drivers in certain regions of the country.  

 

You can use three different methods to remove the speed limiter installed on your GMC Sierra. These methods include using an after-market performance chip, cutting the speed sensor wire, or using an ECU programmer.  

 

In this article, we will explain these three methods in detail to help you remove the speed limiter system on your GMC Sierra and enjoy more power.  

 

How to Remove Speed Limiter on GMC Sierra

1. Using an Aftermarket Performance Chip

 

The main culprit responsible for the speed limiter on your GMC Sierra is the engine control unit, also called ECU (electronic control unit).   You can use any of the following methods to eliminate the engine control unit’s functions to drive more freely.  

 

After market chip manufacturers produce a wide range of chips, also known as tuner chips, that are specially designed to remove the speed limiter on different trucks, including GMC Sierra.  

 

These units are connected to the factory chip and change its programming code, allowing the truck owner to remove speed limiter restrictions. You’ll need to connect the tuner to the OBDII port of your vehicle and select the “program vehicle” option to turn off the “Speed Limit Off” function.  

 

Some chips are designed to disable the speed limiter, while others simply deactivate it. Once you install an aftermarket chip in your Sierra computer system, it’ll reformat its coding. As a result, there will be no more limitations on horsepower and top speed.  

 

Keep in mind that you’ll need to use an after-market performance chip that’s specially designed for GMC Sierra. Using an incompatible device will damage your vehicle’s computing system, which can cost you tons of money.  

 

2. Disconnecting the Wire

 

If you want to remove the speed limiter from your Sierra, but don’t want to replace your car’s electronic control unit or install a new chip, you can completely disconnect the speed sensor wiring that causes this mechanism.  

 

Before removing the wires, however, it is important to understand which of them connects the ECU and ignition circuit. You’ll need to make sure that you disconnect only that wire which is responsible for transferring the gear sensor readings and speed value to the ECU.  

 

In older Sierra models, speed limiter restrictions are handled by the ICM (Ignition Control Module) connected to the ECU. In newer models, however, the same function is given to a modified ignition switch that comes with the Silverado’s computer system.  

 

Removing the wires will remove the speed limiter and some other safety features of your Sierra. We recommend you hire a professional to disconnect the wire to make sure that you keep other vehicle functions working, such as the immobilizer.  

 

Also Read: How to Reset Transfer Case Control Module Silverado?  

 

3. Using ECU Programmer

 

The final method to remove the speed limiter on your GMC Sierra involves a device that is capable of writing new computer codes into the vehicle’s ECU.  

 

By resetting the computer chip, you will remove speed limiter restrictions and other limitations on your vehicle’s horsepower and torque. The ECU programmer can perform this task by replacing your Sierra’s original ECU and allowing you to reprogram its code.  

 

If you are in the market for an ECU programmer, keep in mind that some of them are not compatible with every Sierra model, so it is important to choose one that can be installed on your truck.  

 

Advantages of removing the speed limiter

 

The following is the list of advantages that you’ll experience by removing the intelligent speed limiter installed on your Sierra.  

 

• You’ll be able to drive faster without experiencing engine and transmission problems.

 

• While traveling at higher speeds, you will experience fewer transmission shifts and less engine noise.

 

• You’ll be able to drive longer distances without experiencing a drop in power and engine performance.

 

• It’ll allow you to reach your destination faster.

 

Disadvantages of Removing the Speed Limiter

 

  Here’s a list of disadvantages of removing the speed limiter on your GMC Sierra.  

 

• If a new chip is installed on the truck, it will be almost impossible to return to factory settings.

 

• If you disconnect the wires that connect your Sierra’s ECU to its ignition control module, other safety features will be disabled and your truck will not function properly.

 

• Some of these methods are illegal in some states and countries and also unsafe, as they disable other safety features on the Sierra.

 

• It can also void the warranty of your vehicle.

 

FAQs About How to Remove Speed Limiter on GMC Sierra

 

Q: Why Does the GMC Sierra Vehicle Have a Speed Limiter?

 

Your speed limiter minimizes the dangers on the roads. It also helps you avoid engine and transmission problems at higher speeds. If your engine’s RPM is not managed properly, you could damage your vehicle’s powertrain components.  

 

Q: How Does a Speed Limiter Work?

 

A speed limiter is installed on your vehicle’s ECU, which operates the engine and transmission. When you exceed a certain speed threshold, the device will temporarily disable the powertrain components to prevent the engine from transferring power to the transmission.  

 

Q: Is It Legal to Disable the System That Limits Vehicle Speed?

 

While it’s not illegal to remove speed limiters from vehicles, some states discourage people from doing so. They’re designed to ensure the safety of the driver and passenger in the car from accidents. You can remove them legally if you want.  

 

Q: Will Removing the Speed Limiter on a Sierra Cause an Engine Problem?

 

To avoid damaging your engine or transmission, you need to employ a method that removes the speed limiter without altering other safety features of the vehicle. Speed limiters prevent cars from reaching a speed that’s more than what the installed tires are rated to be. So, removing them can be extremely dangerous.  

 

Q: Will Removing the Speed Limiter Impact the Fuel Efficiency of the GMC Sierra?

 

Removing the speed limiter will impact the fuel economy negatively. The speed range for the best fuel economy is 40 to 50 miles per hour. The higher the speed the poorer the fuel economy. Most GMC Sierra speed limiters keep the rucks from exceeding the speed of 98 miles an hour. So, removing the speed limiter will allow you to drive the truck at an even higher speed, resulting in poor fuel economy.  

 

Final Words

 

Although it is possible to remove the speed limiter on GMC Sierra, we don’t recommend doing so unless you are experienced in this type of vehicle modification. Furthermore, you should always consult a professional mechanic to avoid damaging your Sierra.  

 

If you need to remove the speed limiter from your Sierra, use the methods discussed in this guide to complete the process efficiently and effectively.   If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them in the section below. Also, don’t forget to share this article.