Superchips Traildash 3

If you own a truck, especially one made by Dodge, Ford, or GM, then you know the importance of performance and power. Getting the most out of your truck can transform your driving experience and allow you to push your vehicle further than ever before. That’s where the Superchips Traildash 3 comes in – this amazing tuner is designed specifically to unlock your truck’s true potential and take it to the next level both on and off-road.

In this buying guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Superchips Traildash 3, from compatibility and features to installation and where to buy. You’ll learn how this tuner can dramatically improve your truck’s horsepower, torque, throttle response, and fuel efficiency. Whether you use your truck for work, play, or both, the Superchips Traildash 3 is the ultimate upgrade that every truck owner should consider.

What is the Superchips Traildash 3?

The Superchips Traildash 3 is Superchips’ newest and most advanced performance tuner developed specifically for RAM, Ford, and GM pickup trucks. It builds on the success of previous Traildash tuners with even more power, control, and innovative new features.

This powerful plug-and-play tuner simply plugs into your truck’s OBD-II diagnostic port under the dash. It has pre-loaded tune files designed to optimize your truck’s engine computer for dramatically increased horsepower, torque, and improved throttle response across the RPM range. The Traildash 3 makes tuning your truck’s engine as easy as choosing your desired performance level, uploading the tune file, and enjoying the results.

How does the Superchips Traildash 3 enhance performance?

The Superchips Traildash 3 improves your truck’s performance in several key ways:

• Increased horsepower and torque – The pre-loaded tune files are designed to safely increase horsepower and torque output from your truck’s engine. Gains of 35-50 HP and up to 80 lb-ft of torque are common.
• Improved throttle response – Optimized programming sharpens throttle response so your truck feels faster and more powerful. Acceleration lag is reduced dramatically.
• Elevated fuel efficiency – Along with added power, the tuning can increase MPGs by adjusting parameters like shift points and fuel delivery. Many users report 2-4 MPG better economy.
• Enhanced drivability – Adjustments are made to transmission shift mapping for smoother, more responsive shifting and acceleration. The truck drives and handles better overall.

The end result is a truck with near instant power delivery, sharper response, and performance that makes hauling, towing, and off-road use far more exciting. The Superchips Traildash 3 unlocks your truck’s full potential.

Is the Superchips Traildash 3 compatible with my vehicle?

The Superchips Traildash 3 is compatible with a wide range of RAM, Ford, and GM pickup trucks from model years 1999 through 2016. This includes popular models like:

• Dodge/RAM – 1500, 2500, 3500 with gas engines and automatic transmissions
• Ford – F-150, F-250, F-350 with gas engines and automatic transmissions
• GM – Silverado, Sierra with gas engines and automatic transmissions

The Traildash 3 tuner has pre-loaded tune files optimized specifically for each make and model. So as long as your truck matches the years and engines listed above, the tuner will work seamlessly with your vehicle’s computer for maximum performance. No programming experience or custom tuning required!

How do I install the Superchips Traildash 3?

One of the best things about the Superchips Traildash 3 is the truly simple, plug-and-play installation. The basic process takes less than 10 minutes and requires no mechanical skills. Just follow these steps:

1. Turn your truck ignition to the ON position but do not start the engine.
2. Locate the OBD-II diagnostic port under your dash (consult truck manual if needed).
3. Plug the Superchips Traildash 3 tuner into the diagnostic port until it clicks into place.
4. Use the Traildash screen and buttons to select your desired tune file for your truck model.
5. Turn the ignition OFF for 60 seconds. Then start the engine. The tune will load automatically!

That’s it – your truck is now tuned and ready to deliver noticeably improved power and performance! The tuner can be removed at any time to return your truck to stock. No permanent modifications are made to the engine or computer. It’s the easiest, most hassle-free tuning solution on the market.

What features does the Superchips Traildash 3 offer?

The Superchips Traildash 3 comes stacked with useful features to take your truck’s performance to the next level:

• 5 Custom Tune Files – Includes tuned files for 87, 89, 91, 93 octane fuel plus an Off-Road setting for max power.
• Built-In Display – Easy-to-read screen walks you through selecting tunes and monitoring vitals like boost, fuel pressure, etc.
• Pre-Loaded Tunes – No custom tuning needed. Select your model-specific tune file and upload to the truck.
• Diagnostics – Read and clear check engine codes and perform full diagnostic monitoring of your truck.
• Supports Upgrades – Works great with aftermarket cold air intakes, headers, exhausts, and other bolt-ons.
• Engine Safety Management – Proprietary safeguards help prevent blowing your engine during aggressive driving.
• User-Adjustable Options – Customize features like rear gear ratio and speed limiter settings.
• Free Downloadable Updates – New tune files can be downloaded and added to the tuner as they are released.

For maximizing both street and off-road performance, no other tuner matches the capabilities and features of the Superchips Traildash 3. It puts total control over your truck’s power at your fingertips.

Where can I buy the Superchips Traildash 3?

The Superchips Traildash 3 is available from a variety of online retailers as well as local truck and off-road accessory shops. Prices typically range from $299 to $399. Here are some of the best places to buy:

• Superchips Website – Purchase direct from the manufacturer, often with promo discounts and free shipping.
• Amazon – Frequently has the tuner in stock at competitive pricing with fast shipping.
• Summit Racing – Trusted retailer of performance parts with competitive pricing and quick delivery.
• RealTruck – Great prices on the Traildash 3 and price matching if you find it cheaper elsewhere.
• Local Retailers – Check shops that specialize in trucks and off-roading accessories. Ask if they price match.

Buying directly from Superchips is recommended if possible to ensure you receive a genuine new tuner with full warranty. But many retailers carry the Traildash 3 at great prices.

How to update the Superchips Traildash 3 software?

One advantage of the Superchips Traildash 3 is the ability to update it with the latest tune files as they are released by Superchips. There are two ways to get these free updates:

1. USB Direct – Connect the tuner to your computer via USB cable. Run the Traildash software on your computer and click Update. This downloads and installs the newest files directly.
2. File Download – On another computer, visit superchips.com and find the Traildash 3 update files. Download them and transfer to a micro SD card or USB flash drive. Insert into tuner and select install update.

Updating is recommended to get the newest features and optimized tuning as Superchips makes continual improvements. It’s a quick, easy process that ensures your Traildash 3 is always up to date. The update files and instructions are available for free on their website.

What is the price of the Superchips Traildash 3?

The Superchips Traildash 3 retails for $399.99 when purchased directly through Superchips. Most other online retailers sell it for right around $399 as well.

However, you can sometimes find it on sale for $50-100 less on sites like Amazon or Summit Racing. The lowest prices tend to be around $299-$325 when stores run promotions.

Given the huge horsepower and performance gains this tuner creates for your truck, it’s a very reasonably priced upgrade. For the cost, nothing else you can buy will increase your truck’s power and capability like the Traildash 3.

If your budget is tight, you may want to watch for seasonal sales around the holidays when retailers discount it. Or take advantage of any current promos directly from Superchips.

At its normal $399 retail price, the Superchips Traildash 3 provides outstanding value for all the features and performance it delivers. But you can likely find it for less if you hunt for sales and promotions online.

Can the Superchips Traildash 3 improve fuel efficiency?

Absolutely! One of the great benefits of the Superchips Traildash 3 is that along with dramatically increased horsepower and torque, it can also improve your truck’s MPG and fuel efficiency under normal driving.

There are a few reasons it can increase miles per gallon:

• Optimized fuel delivery – The tuning adjusts fuel maps for just the right air/fuel ratio.
• Smoother acceleration – Improved throttle response eliminates wasteful lag during acceleration.
• Higher gear usage – Retuned shift points use higher gears sooner for better economy.
• Reduced engine strain – More torque at lower RPMs reduces working the engine as hard.

Many Traildash 3 users report fuel economy gains of 2-4 MPG depending on driving style and conditions. Under heavy loads and towing, efficiency increases are even more noticeable.

The extra MPGs add up to significant fuel cost savings over time. And when combined with the added power, the Traildash 3 really helps maximize what your truck is capable of. It’s a win-win for both performance AND fuel efficiency.

What are common issues with the Superchips Traildash 3?

Considering how powerful and feature-packed the Superchips Traildash 3 is, there are very few issues reported by users:

• Errors uploading tune files – This is usually fixed by double checking the tuner is properly seated in the OBD-II port, turning the ignition on/off properly, and selecting the correct file for your truck.
• Malfunction lights or codes – Clearing codes with the tuner and double checking all sensors are connected usually resolves this. The enhanced tuning can sometimes trigger “false” check engine lights.
• Connection problems – Issues communicating with the truck computer are typically fixed by inspecting the OBD-II port and tuner contacts for dirt/damage or trying a different port.
• SD card slot issues – Very rare but the SD slot can stop reading cards. Manufacturer warranty covers this. Try cleaning with compressed air.
• Screen freezing or glitches – Either a firmware bug or faulty unit. Updating software and resetting the tuner can often resolve small glitches.

Overall, when installed correctly in a compatible truck, the Traildash 3 has very few troubles reported. Most issues that do appear are quickly solved with software updates, resets, or inspection of connections. Superchips customer service is very helpful as well.

How to troubleshoot the Superchips Traildash 3?

If you do experience issues with your Traildash 3, here are the main steps to troubleshoot and resolve them:

• Confirm correct installation – Make sure it is plugged into the proper OBD-II port completely and the right tune file is selected for your truck. Re-install from scratch if needed.
• Try another OBD-II port – Use a different port in your truck in case the one being used is dirty or damaged.
• Check connection fit – Inspect the Traildash and truck port for dirt, damage, bent pins, or anything that could affect connectivity.
• Reset the tuner – Through the menu, do a factory reset which clears any glitches and resets to default.
• Update Traildash software – Download and install the newest firmware which often fixes bugs and issues.
• Make sure all truck sensors are connected – Disconnected oxygen or temperature sensors can cause check engine lights.
• Clear truck error codes – Use Traildash diagnostics to clear any codes triggered by the tuning and restart with a clean slate.
• Consult Superchips support – If issue persists, call or email their excellent customer support who can troubleshoot further.

Following this process will resolve most any issue with the Traildash 3 tuner. Take advantage of their great support team if needed – they know the product inside and out.

What do user reviews say about the Superchips Traildash 3?

Overall, user reviews of the Superchips Traildash 3 tuner are overwhelmingly positive. Here are some of the most common compliments:

• “Woke up my truck and made it feel like a rocket!” – Lots of praise for the huge increase in horsepower, torque, and acceleration.
• “Better gas mileage now too.” – Many mention the tuner helped increase MPGs along with the power gains.
• “So easy to install and use.” – Users love how simply it plugs in and starts working with pre-loaded tunes.
• “More fun hauling and towing now.” – Owners are impressed with improved performance when working their trucks hard.
• “Surprisingly good off-road too.” – The optional off-road tune adds even more low end grunt for off-road use.
• “Superchips has great support.” – Company gets high marks for knowledgeable and thorough customer service.
• “Best money I’ve spent on my truck.” – Almost all say the performance gains make it well worth the reasonable cost.

For most truck owners, the Superchips Traildash 3 provides exactly what they want – big power gains, improved efficiency, and the ability to push their truck further than ever. User reviews prove it delivers as promised!

How does the Superchips Traildash 3 affect the warranty?

A common concern when using any aftermarket tuning product is how it might impact the factory warranty on your truck. Thankfully, Superchips takes extra steps to keep their products warranty-friendly:

• Easily removed – The Traildash 3 plugs in without any permanent modification to your truck’s computer or sensors. Removing it reverts all changes.
• Includes warranty – Superchips provides a manufacturer’s warranty on the Traildash 3 against defects.
• CARB compliant – It is approved for road use in all 50 states, including California emissions regs.
• Improves drivability – Optimized tuning actually improves the way your truck runs, reducing strain on the drivetrain.
• Peace of mind – Superchips will provide documentation to help with any warranty-related issues that may occur.

As with any engine tuning, there is always some small warranty risk. But the Traildash 3 is designed to work synergistically with your truck to enhance performance rather than overly stress components. Just follow proper installation steps and you can tune your truck with confidence.

What settings are available on the Superchips Traildash 3?

One great feature of the Traildash 3 is the ability to customize certain parameters of the tuning to match your specific truck setup and needs:

• Tire Size – Adjust for different tire diameters if running larger/smaller tires than stock.
• Rear Gear Ratio – Set to match your axle gearing if changed from stock.
• Speed Limiter – Increase or lower the top speed limiter if desired.
• Idle RPM – Bump up idle speed a bit for aftermarket cams or stall converters.
• Rev Limiter – Raise the max RPM limit for modified engines capable of higher revs.
• Tuning Modes – Switch between 87/89/91/93 octane tunes depending on fuel quality.
• 0-60 MPH Timer – Test your acceleration and 60 MPH times before/after tuning.

Adjusting these parameters takes just a few minutes through the Traildash menus to match any unique aspects of your truck. Custom tuning without the hassle!

How to reset the Superchips Traildash 3?

Resetting the Traildash 3 tuner is a very simple process:

1. Turn your truck’s ignition ON but do not start the engine.
2. Locate the small pinhole button on the bottom of the Traildash unit.
3. Use a paperclip or small tool to press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds until the Traildash screen illuminates.
4. The tuner will now be reset back to factory default settings. All your settings and customized tunes will be erased.

Resetting is recommended if you are removing the Traildash from your truck or if you are having any glitches or strange issues suddenly. It wipes the tuner back to a clean slate.

You can then re-install it in your truck or a new vehicle and reload the tune files fresh. Just make sure to have your vehicle’s make, model, and engine info handy to re-set the tuner properly.

What is the warranty on the Superchips Traildash 3?

The Superchips Traildash 3 is backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty against defects and workmanship issues.

The warranty is valid for 1 year from the original date of purchase when bought from an authorized Superchips dealer. Make sure to register your tuner at superchips.com within 30 days.

This warranty covers the Traildash 3 electronic device only – not the installation or any damage caused by improper installation/use. The warranty is considered void if the device is physically altered, misused, or incorrectly installed.

Within the 1 year period, Superchips will repair or replace any Traildash 3 found to have manufacturing defects. You just pay the cost to ship the device to Superchips and they’ll cover return shipping.

No other tuner offers the same quality guarantee direct from the manufacturer. Superchips stands behind their products 100%. Just be sure to buy from authorized sellers to take advantage of the warranty.

How does the Superchips Traildash 3 perform off-road?

For truck owners who like to hit the trails and do serious off-roading, the Superchips Traildash 3 can provide huge performance benefits:

• More low-end torque – The off-road tune maximizes torque down low for crawling over obstacles.
• Better throttle response – Instant power delivery helps negotiate tough sections.
• Increased trail range – Improved fuel economy allows you to stay out on the trails longer.
• Enhanced engine braking – Tuned transmission settings help you better control descents.
• Diagnostics for the trail – View and clear error codes to get back up and running.
• RPM limit adjustments – Raise the rev limiter for high-RPM downshifting on descents.
• Speed limiter adjustment – Useful for sticking to lower speeds on certain trails.

Between the specialized off-road tuning and handy engine diagnostics, the Traildash 3 is built for excelling on the trails while still getting you home safe. It’s like an onboard support tool out on the rugged trails.

What is the installation time for the Superchips Traildash 3?

One of the best attributes of the Superchips Traildash 3 is the incredibly quick and easy installation. The total install time is under 10 minutes in most trucks.

Here is a typical Traildash 3 installation timeline:

• 1 minute – Locate the OBD-II port under your dash and plug in the tuner.
• 2 minutes – Turn the ignition on, select your truck model tune, and turn off again.
• 1 minute – Disconnect tuner and re-insert to upload tune to truck computer.
• 3 minutes – Start engine and test drive. Tuning loaded!
• 1 minute – Disconnect tuner and tuck away the cord. Finished!

With the step-by-step instructions included, anyone can have their truck tuned in well under 10 minutes. No mechanical skills or programming knowledge required.

And removing the tuner is just as fast when you need to return your truck to stock. The Superchips Traildash 3 is by far the quickest, easiest way to add major horsepower to your truck.

Can the Superchips Traildash 3 be used on diesel engines?

Unfortunately the Superchips Traildash 3 is designed only for gas engines at this time. It does not have tune files compatible with diesel trucks.

However, Superchips does make diesel-specific programmers like the DuramaxTuner for GM Duramax engines and the PowerPDA for Dodge Cummins diesels.

These use similar Plug-and-Play installation but contain different code optimizations tailored specifically to diesel motors.

So while the Traildash 3 works great to tune gas engines in RAM, Ford, and GM trucks, you would need a different Superchips programmer if you own a diesel model.

Check with your local dealer or the Superchips website to find the correct diesel tuner for your make and model. Just like the Traildash 3, it will safely interface with your truck for optimal diesel performance.

How does the Superchips Traildash 3 compare to previous models?

The Traildash 3 builds on the success of earlier Traildash tuners with a range of enhancements:

• Faster processing provides more responsive tuning and adjustments on the fly.
• Larger screen with crisper graphics for easier reading of data.
• Increased memory to store more custom tunes and parameters.
• Built-in accelerometer for measuring 0-60 times and G-forces.
• Higher capacity lithium-ion battery allows longer use between charges.
• Sturdier aluminum housing withstands more abuse.
• WiFi connectivity for wireless software updating.
• supports more vehicle models and model years.

In addition to hardware improvements, it also has updated tune files for the newest trucks with more optimization for both performance and fuel efficiency.

While past Traildash tuners were great, the Traildash 3 represents a big leap forward in technology, features, and expandability as Superchips continues to perfect these programmer devices. It really is the ultimate refinement of their popular tuner product line.