When building a high-performance vehicle, the reliability of your engine management system is paramount. The AEM Infinity 708 ECU is a cornerstone for serious tuners and builders, offering unparalleled control and precision. However, its performance is only as good as the components and supporting hardware you pair with it. From the essential wiring harnesses to critical tuning accessories, the right parts ensure your ECU operates flawlessly under the most demanding conditions.
This roundup focuses on products that directly support and enhance the reliability of your AEM Infinity 708 setup. We’ve compiled a list of official AEM components and highly compatible third-party accessories that are crucial for a robust and dependable installation. Whether you are assembling a new system or maintaining an existing one, these selections are designed to provide peace of mind and long-term performance.
Essential Components for Your AEM Infinity 708 System
- bOOST MONKEY Replacement Pins FOR AEM Infinity 6 8 8H 10 12 Main Connector
- NOCO GENIUS1: 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger – Automatic Maintainer
- AEM 30-0300 X-Series Wideband UEGO AFR Sensor Controller Gauge
- AEM Infinity 708-1001 Infinity ECU Standalone Engine Management System
- AEM Electronics 30-7081 Infinity ECU Wiring Harness Kit
- AEM 30-7082 Infinity ECU 12′ Sensor Harness
- AEM 30-7083 Infinity ECU 12′ Injector Harness
- AEM 30-7084 Infinity ECU 12′ Ignition Harness
bOOST MONKEY Replacement Pins FOR AEM Infinity Main Connector
Even the most robust ECU is dependent on the physical connections within its harness. Over time, or during complex custom installations, the tiny pins inside the main connector can become damaged or lost. This set of 120 replacement pins from bOOST MONKEY is a vital repair kit for anyone working with an AEM Infinity ECU system.
These pins are a compatible replacement for the main harness plugs on Infinity 6, 8, 8H, 10, 12, 506, 508, 708, 710, and 712 models. Having these on hand allows for quick repairs without needing to replace an entire harness, saving both time and resources. For long-term reliability, being able to maintain a perfect electrical connection at the ECU’s primary interface is non-negotiable.
NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger
A stable and clean power supply is the foundation of reliable ECU operation. The NOCO GENIUS1 is a compact yet powerful battery maintainer that ensures your vehicle’s electrical system is always in top condition. It is designed for 6-volt and 12-volt lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, making it versatile for various applications.
This charger features precision charging with an integrated thermal sensor that adjusts the charge based on ambient temperature. This prevents overcharging in hot weather and undercharging in cold, which is critical for maintaining battery health and providing consistent voltage to sensitive electronics like the Infinity 708. Its desulfation mode also helps recover and extend battery life, contributing to overall system dependability.
AEM 30-0300 X-Series Wideband UEGO AFR Sensor Controller Gauge
Accurate air/fuel ratio (AFR) data is critical for both tuning and safeguarding your engine. The AEM 30-0300 X-Series Wideband Gauge provides this essential feedback with exceptional precision. Its modern design features a large, seven-segment center display that is 87% larger than previous models, making it easy to read at a glance.
This gauge utilizes advanced X-Digital wideband technology to read and report values that other controllers might miss, leading to more optimized engine tuning and a safer operating condition. It offers a 0-5v analog output, RS232 Serial Port, and AEMnet (CANbus) output, allowing for seamless integration and data logging with the Infinity 708 ECU for closed-loop fuel control.
AEM Infinity 708-1001 Infinity ECU Standalone Engine Management System
At the heart of this entire system is the AEM Infinity 708-1001 ECU itself. This standalone engine management system is designed for the highest level of performance and control, capable of handling everything from basic engine functions to complex, multi-engine configurations and motorsport applications. Its processing power and I/O capabilities are extensive.
The reliability of the Infinity 708 is rooted in its robust construction and sophisticated software. It offers features like integrated data logging, built-in wideband controller support, and advanced tuning strategies that protect your engine. For a build where failure is not an option, the 708-1001 provides the computational backbone needed for consistent and reliable performance.
AEM Electronics 30-7081 Infinity ECU Wiring Harness Kit
A proper installation begins with a high-quality wiring harness. The AEM 30-7081 is the main wiring harness kit designed specifically for the Infinity 708 ECU. This harness provides the foundational wiring needed to connect the ECU to the engine’s sensors, injectors, and ignition components, serving as the nervous system of your engine management.
Using the official AEM harness ensures perfect compatibility and reliability. It is constructed with high-grade materials and designed to withstand the heat, vibration, and electrical noise found in a vehicle’s engine bay. A correctly installed OEM harness minimizes the risk of electrical faults, which is a common source of intermittent and difficult-to-diagnose ECU issues.
AEM 30-7082 Infinity ECU 12′ Sensor Harness
For a clean and organized installation, dedicated extension harnesses are invaluable. The AEM 30-7082 is a 12-foot sensor harness that expands your connectivity options. This allows you to mount the ECU in an optimal location while still reaching all necessary engine sensors without the need for custom splicing.
This pre-made harness is engineered to maintain signal integrity over its length, which is crucial for accurate sensor readings. Reliable data from sensors like the coolant temperature, oil pressure, and manifold absolute pressure sensors is what allows the Infinity 708 ECU to make precise adjustments and keep the engine running safely and efficiently.
AEM 30-7083 Infinity ECU 12′ Injector Harness
Fuel delivery control is a primary function of any ECU, and the connections must be flawless. The AEM 30-7083 is a 12-foot injector harness that provides a direct, reliable link between the Infinity 708 and your fuel injectors. Using this dedicated harness simplifies wiring and reduces the potential for connection errors.
A secure connection at each injector ensures consistent firing and precise fuel metering. Any resistance or intermittency in these circuits can lead to poor drivability, misfires, or even engine damage. This official AEM harness is built to provide a robust and lasting connection for this critical system.
AEM 30-7084 Infinity ECU 12′ Ignition Harness
Precise ignition timing is key to performance and engine safety. The AEM 30-7084 ignition harness is a 12-foot extension that connects the ECU to the ignition coils or ignition modules. This dedicated harness ensures that the timing signals from the ECU are delivered without interference or voltage drop.
Like the other harnesses in the series, it is designed for a perfect fit and reliable operation in the harsh engine environment. A solid ignition signal prevents timing inaccuracies that can cause power loss, knocking, or potential engine failure, making this harness an important component for a dependable ignition system.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Reliable AEM Infinity 708 ECU
When I’m considering a standalone ECU for a serious build, reliability is my number one concern. It’s the brain of the car, and a failure means you’re going nowhere fast. The AEM Infinity 708 has a strong reputation, but making sure you get a reliable unit and have it set up correctly is key. Here’s what I focus on.
First, I always check the source. I only buy from authorized AEM dealers. This isn’t just for warranty purposes; it’s my first line of defense against counterfeit or used units being sold as new. An authorized dealer ensures you get genuine hardware and access to legitimate software and firmware updates directly from AEM, which is critical for long-term stability and performance.
Next, I think about the installation and tuning process. The 708 is incredibly powerful, but that complexity is a double-edged sword. The single biggest factor for reliability is the person tuning it. I look for a tuner with proven experience specifically with the Infinity platform. A bad tune on a great ECU will still lead to engine failure. I ask for references and look at their past work on similar setups. A good tuner will also help me understand the safety features and fail-safes built into the Infinity, like over-boost protection and lean-out guards, and ensure they are properly configured.
I also pay close attention to the supporting hardware. The ECU is only as good as the sensors feeding it information. I make sure to use high-quality, compatible sensors for critical functions like crank position, cam position, wideband O2, and fuel and oil pressure. Using cheap or incorrect sensors is a direct path to unreliable operation and potential engine damage. The Infinity 708 can control almost anything, but that means the wiring harness must be perfect. Whether I’m using a pre-made harness or having one custom built, I verify that the work is clean, robust, and well-protected from heat and vibration.
Finally, I consider the built-in logging and diagnostics. A reliable system is one that lets me monitor its health. The 708 has extensive data logging capabilities. I make it a habit to regularly review logs after the tune is finalized to spot any anomalies or trends that could point to a future problem. This proactive approach is what separates a trouble-free experience from a costly repair. For anyone doing an 8 review of the best AEM Infinity 708 ECU for reliability, the consensus always points to quality components and expert tuning as the non-negotiable foundations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the AEM Infinity 708 reliable for a daily-driven car?
Yes, absolutely. Once it’s professionally installed and tuned, the AEM Infinity 708 can be extremely reliable for daily use. Its reliability comes from its precise control over the engine and its robust suite of safety features. A good tuner will set up comprehensive fail-safes that protect the engine if a sensor fails or if it detects a dangerous condition like detonation or a lean air-fuel mixture. The key is that the initial setup must be done correctly. A sloppy install or tune will cause problems regardless of the ECU’s quality.
What kind of support and learning resources are available for the Infinity 708?
AEM provides a lot of support, but you have to know where to look. Their website has the official software, firmware updates, and a detailed user manual that is essential reading. Beyond that, there are active online communities and forums where users and professional tuners share information, base maps, and troubleshooting tips. For the serious user, there are also professional tuning seminars offered by AEM and other training organizations that dive deep into the software’s advanced features.
Can I install and tune the AEM Infinity 708 myself?
You can, but I would only recommend it if you have significant experience with automotive electrical systems and engine management principles. The installation involves wiring the entire ECU into your vehicle, which is a complex task. The tuning process is even more involved. While the software is powerful, a mistake in tuning can easily destroy an engine. For most people, paying a qualified professional for the installation and tuning is the best way to ensure reliability and performance.
How does the Infinity 708 compare to other standalone ECUs in terms of reliability?
The AEM Infinity 708 is considered a top-tier ECU and is on par with other high-end units from companies like Motec and Haltech in terms of hardware reliability and processing power. All these systems are fundamentally reliable; the difference often comes down to the software interface, specific features, and the expertise of the tuner you’re working with. The 708 is particularly well-regarded for its flexibility and control over complex setups, including those with variable valve timing and high-boost forced induction.
What are the most common causes of problems with the Infinity 708?
From what I’ve seen, the vast majority of problems are not the fault of the ECU hardware itself. The most common issues stem from poor installation, such as bad wiring connections, ground loops, or using low-quality sensors. The second biggest cause is an improper tune. The ECU is just following instructions; if the tune has errors in the fuel, ignition, or boost maps, the engine will suffer. Finally, not keeping the ECU’s firmware and software up to date can sometimes lead to bugs or glitches that are already solved in newer versions. When conducting an 8 review of the best AEM Infinity 708 ECU for reliability, these human-factor issues are almost always the root cause of any reported troubles.