You can find a full list of our Volkswagen tuning parts here
VW ECU Tuning:
ECU tuning is vital when it comes to increasing the power on your VW. Often each "Stage" of tuning has it's own requirements and/or pre-requisites which we will cover below.
Unlike it's other German counterparts (namely BMW) VW tuning has stuck traditionally to OBD port tuning, although remote tuning could be possible through the use of specific hardware. Some vehicles may not have the ability to be tuned, down to ECU versions or available files. Please ensure you do the relevant research on your specific MY and model.
Stage 1 Tuning for Volkswagen:
Stage 1 tuning across the board for Volkswagens is pretty simple, in essence Stage 1 tuning can be done on a bare-bone stock vehicle, or a vehicle with simple "bolt-on" modifications, an example below:
- Stage 1 ECU tuning
- Stock air filter upgrade, either induction kit, or performance panel-filter
- Stock/OEM exhaust is suitable, upgraded cat-backs are OK on Stage 1
- No catalytic converter changes
- TCU tune (for DSG equipped models) optional
For engines such as the EA888, Stage 1 tunes can produce up to 60bhp, sometimes slightly more on updated models such as the EA888.3. As a rule of thumb you will be looking at gaining between 10% and 30% in engine power, alongside a whole host of other benefits.
Stage 2 Tuning for Volkswagen:
Stage 2 tuning for VW is even simpler, in most cases, take everything you have from Stage 1, and add a downpipe! As simple as that...
Some vehicles may require cat-backs, due to restrictions in the exhaust system, and some models may even required fuelling upgrades such as fuel pumps to cope withe extra demand, however in most cases, Stage 2 tuning is pretty cut and shut.
- Induction kit, and exhaust from Stage 1
- Stage 2 ECU tune
- Downpipe changes - either de-cat or sports-cat
- Intercooler upgrade
- TCU tune (for DSG equipped models)
*Please note some vehicles may require more changes than described above. Ensure you do the relevant research on your specific MY, make and model before purchasing.
Stage 3 tuning for Volkswagen:
Stage 3 tuning is where the horizons start to blur slightly, as each make and model is slightly different from the rest. One thing which is mutual change across all models is the turbo, Stage 3 tuning typically constitutes a change of turbo to a hybrid turbo, or full-frame dependent on your build. Stage 3 often includes fuelling changes, in this example we use the EA888 motor from the Golf R Mk7, they require LPFP and HPFP changes when approaching 500bhp at Stage 3.
- All above modifications listed in Stage 1 and/or Stage 2
- Upgraded turbo - this could be hybrid, or full frame dependent on your goals
- Fuelling changes, some vehicles require injectors, some fuel pumps (LPFP/HPFP)
- Larger diameter exhaust to aid escape of exhaust gases and back pressure
- Larger boost pipes, or charge pipes
*Please note that engine forging/reinforcement may be required at any of these stages. Please enquire with your chosen tuner for more information.
How do you put all of that power down?
In a few cases, Volkswagen have equipped their vehicles with the Haldex AWD system, which does aid in power control, however it is ALWAYS worth considering upgrading your braking system, or suspension to make the most of the extra power, whilst still retaining a high level of safety and control.
You can find a full list of our VW tuning parts here!
*Please check with your individual tuner as to the specific parts needed for YOUR car, each car is individual, this tuning guide is a guideline, and indicative only.