Frequently asked questions
Exhaust valve controllers: the questions we get asked most
Short answers to what matters before you buy. If your question is missing, write to info@valve-cartel.com. We answer personally, not through a ticket system.
What is a Valve Cartel exhaust valve controller?
A control unit that opens and closes your vehicle exhaust valve independently of the driving mode. It connects to existing plug connectors, comes pre-programmed for your vehicle generation and is operated by a button. Valve Cartel develops, manufactures and codes these modules in-house in Lübeck, Germany.
Which makes do Valve Cartel exhaust valve controllers cover?
Currently Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, Cupra, Dodge, Ford, McLaren, Porsche, Toyota and VW, plus BMW motorcycles. The full list with models and model years is further down this page.
Is there an exhaust valve controller for the BMW S 1000 RR?
Yes. Our module covers the BMW S 1000 RR and M 1000 RR from model years 2021 to 2026. There is a separate module for the S 1000 R and M 1000 R of the same years. It is operated by two buttons the motorcycle already has: one opens the valve, one closes it.
How is the exhaust valve operated?
Through two buttons your vehicle already has. One opens the valve, one closes it. No extra switch is added and nothing visible is routed. The assignment is not freely configurable but pre-programmed by us. Which two buttons they are is in the installation guide that comes with the package.
What state is the vehicle in after the engine is restarted?
After every engine restart everything is back in the legal mode. The valve always starts in its factory state, no matter how it was left when you switched off. If you want it open, you simply press again.
Do I need a workshop to fit it?
No. Fitting takes 30 to 60 minutes and uses existing plug connectors, with nothing cut and nothing soldered. If you are reasonably handy you can do it yourself. A workshop is of course also fine.
Does anything need to be coded or reprogrammed?
No. Every module is flashed for your vehicle generation and tested before it ships. Plug it in, press the button combination, done. No diagnostic computer and no software needed.
Does the module cause fault codes?
No. The control unit does not complain and no entries are left behind.
Can the controller be seen on the vehicle?
No. The module sits out of sight after fitting, and because it is operated through existing buttons, nothing is added in the cockpit either. From the outside there is nothing to see.
Is the exhaust valve controller legal on public roads?
No. The modules have no German road traffic approval, no EC type approval and no ECE approval. They are intended for motorsport, show use and export. Fitting them within the scope of German road traffic law can void the vehicle operating permit and the insurance cover.
What does an exhaust valve controller cost?
Every valve controller currently costs 249.90 euro plus shipping, a launch price. Prices for our other products are shown on each product page. Under section 19 of the German VAT Act no VAT is charged and therefore none is shown.
How fast do you ship?
Shipping within 3 to 5 working days. We ship from Germany. Modules marked as pre-order have a lead time of 6 to 8 weeks, which is stated on the product page.
What if it does not fit after all?
You have a 14-day right of withdrawal. Send it back unused and in its original packaging, no reason needed. Statutory warranty applies on top.
My vehicle is not listed. What now?
Put it on the wish list with make, model and model year. We build in the order things are asked for and get in touch as soon as the controller for your vehicle is ready.
Can I get the installation guide in advance?
No, it comes with the package. There are two reasons: the guide contains the button combination that operates the valve, and only the owner of the vehicle should know it. And we do not want it circulating without a purchase.
Does the controller fit facelift models too?
Facelift variants sometimes differ in how they are controlled. Look for your model year in the list on this page or in the vehicle finder: if it is listed, the controller fits. If you are unsure, send us make, model and model year and we will check.
Who is behind Valve Cartel?
Valve Cartel is a sole proprietorship run by Tobias Keusch, based in Lübeck, Germany. Development, manufacturing, coding and testing of the modules all happen in-house. We answer enquiries ourselves, on weekdays from 8:00 to 18:00.