New User - help needed

[markt]

Enjoying this forum and wanted to join in! Own a 1.8T A4 Avant 2003 (163bhp).

After 7000 miles (picked up car in March) the car is starting to warm up on its performance. However, I have heard that a very simple process of `chipping` would increase power to around 200 bhp. Im sure this would **** up the warranty but would be grateful for advice and general thoughts.

Mark

 

[DavidR]

Mark, there are SOOOO many posts re chipping, you'll find a wealth of info here by using the search tool /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

However, you are correct, for about £500 you can get almost 200bhp and 220lbft torque, respected tuning companies in the UK include APR, AmD, Star, Jabba, MTM and a few others. Some include software to hide the chip from the dealers to avoid warranty problems, but most dealers don't care less and probbably dont even notice....

 

[markt]

Many thanks. Would it fox a main dealer? Im a bit worried about the warranty situation but yearn for more power.

I test drove a new S4 (v8) at an Audi day in the summer and since then my 1.8T has felt a bit slow. Im probably being ridiculous but grunt would, I feel, complete my A4. Also, other have told me that the car will get quicker with age. Is this true and does 200 bhp make that much difference?

 

[markt]

Gambba,

Just spoken to Revo. Sounds like a great deal £499 plus vat to get 195bhp and 225 torque with a switch. Am taking the free 5 hour trial which allows you get the feel for the changes. They say the ecu upgrade in undetectable to the Audi diagnostics and 195 bhp is way way within limits.

I will report back after free trial.

Mark /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/groovy.gif

 

[Gambba]

Mark,

195hp is well within the limits with I think 350hp being the upper limit before tuners decide to make internal modifications. Would suggest you do a search on REVO on the forums as there are a number of issues which have been brought up, not saying that you have to believe it all but it's peoples opinions and I suppose they must count for something. Which ever tuner you go with will bring a grin to your face, and all I'll say is do your research and go with your gut feeling.

As for warranty, give your dealer a call and see how your particular dealer stands with chipping, and if it's a no go with them then try other local dealers.....failing that I'd personally just do it, the likelihood of them blaming a failure on the chip is small IMO.

Not sure I've made it any easier for you, but it gives you something to think about.