How to Choose the Right Haltech ECU for Your Build

If you're serious about tuning and getting the most out of your engine build, a high-quality ECU (Engine Control Unit) is a must. Haltech is one of the leading names in aftermarket engine management, offering a range of ECUs that cater to everything from street-driven performance cars to full-blown race machines. But with so many options available, how do you know which Haltech ECU is right for your setup?

In this guide, we’ll break down the different Haltech ECUs, the key sensors you need, and an overview of Haltech dashes and power management solutions to ensure you get the most out of your build.

Choosing the Right Haltech ECU

1. Haltech Elite Series

Elite 550 – Ideal for basic four-cylinder or six-cylinder engines with minimal modifications. Best for street and entry-level performance applications.
Elite 750 – A step up with extra functionality, making it suitable for turbocharged or supercharged builds needing more precise control.
Elite 1000 & 1500 – Great for high-performance builds, including boosted applications and motorsport use. Features include closed-loop boost control and advanced fuel and ignition mapping.
Elite 2000 & 2500 – Designed for serious race cars, these ECUs offer advanced data logging, traction control, and support for complex engine setups like drive-by-wire, staged injection, and more.

2. Haltech Nexus R5

If you’re running a high-powered competition car and need an all-in-one solution, the Nexus R5 combines ECU, PDM (Power Distribution Module), and a datalogger into a single unit. This is the ultimate choice for race teams looking to simplify wiring and maximize reliability.

Key Sensors You Need for a Haltech ECU

Wideband O2 Sensor (WB1 or WB2) – Crucial for monitoring and tuning air-fuel ratios.
MAP Sensor – Essential for proper tuning, especially for turbocharged setups.
Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor – Helps adjust fuel and timing based on air temperature.
Coolant Temperature Sensor – Prevents overheating and optimizes tuning parameters.
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) – Essential for drive-by-wire systems.
Flex Fuel Sensor – Allows automatic adjustments for ethanol content in flex-fuel setups.
Oil and Fuel Pressure Sensors – Protects the engine from failure and ensures performance.
Crank and Cam Sensors – Ensures accurate ignition timing and sequential fuel injection.

Haltech Dashes: Taking Data to the Next Level

1. Haltech IC-7 Display Dash

A compact, full-color 7-inch digital dash.
Customizable display layouts.
Compatible with Elite and Nexus ECUs.
Ideal for street and race applications.

2. Haltech iC-10 & iC-12 Dashes

Larger displays with more data visibility.
Fully configurable layouts to prioritize important engine parameters.
Great for professional race teams needing in-depth real-time data.

Power Management with Haltech PDMs

Haltech PD16 PDM

Replaces traditional fuses and relays with a programmable solid-state solution.
Integrated CAN communication for seamless ECU integration.
Ideal for motorsport applications where reliability is critical.

The Nexus R5 ECU already includes a PDM, but if you're running an Elite ECU, adding a standalone PD16 can be a game-changer.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right Haltech ECU depends on your engine setup, tuning goals, and budget. The Elite Series is perfect for high-performance street and race builds, while the Nexus R5 is the go-to for full competition cars needing integrated power management.

Pairing your ECU with the right sensors, a digital dash, and a power management system ensures your build runs at peak performance. Whether you're chasing horsepower, improving drivability, or setting up a competition car, Haltech has the right gear to make it happen.

Need advice on the best Haltech setup for your build? Get in touch with Spool Imports—we’ll help you select the perfect ECU, sensors, and accessories to get the most out of your engine!