S3 KWE - my build thread (it will be slow progress...)

samuelh_888

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Hello All,

I've been here for several months now, posted a couple of times and asked many questions but with plenty more to come. It's been said before and will be again but there is a wealth of knowledge and support here; it's been a great resource to me.

Any rate, I thought I'd create this thread as a single place where I can ask my questions but also document the small, and hopefully not so small updates I make to my S3.

IMG 0444


With a family we needed a second car. The long of the short of it is, I purchased this MY61 Black Edition Sportback in January. It had 55k miles it was from a main VW Dealer with a 1 year warranty & paint protection (& cambelt, waterpump). The warranty gives some piece of mind (already claimed rear wiper on it) but it also slows the modifying process for fear of voiding it.

This second car we needed - It wasn't to get much use and I had a budget in mind so I bought an A3 MY09 1.8 TFSI (facelift, 44k miles) in September 2016 as the second car. It was a great car and in spotless condition but I should have done more research before buying. I didn't need a race car but I was always going to tinker with it.
When I started looking I was surprised at how few aftermarket upgrades there are for the 1.8; like many of us here I had a wish list and my wish list was putting me into S3 territory price wise, however the 1.8 would still be 30-40hp shy of a std S3 with all the money spent.

So after having the paint corrected, fitting an RNS-E, Audi Parking Plus (front sensors) and a couple of other things I decided to stop spending on it and trade up to the S3.

Budget eh, it's amazing how flexible they are.

A new wish list has been drawn up covering Interior, Exterior and Performance...

First off was the ash-tray delete and changing the ciggy lighter to the flip-top covered one. Unfortunately I have no before photos - they wouldn't have been clear anyway as I did it at 10pm under mobile phone light. This was quickly followed by an LED upgrade via @t8ups .

Then it was on to the folding mirrors - As my S3 is a late model 8P (61) I already had the correct door modules for the auto fold. The rest of the parts I purchased over a period of time from @mjr901 via parts request. If anyone is interested the parts required are:

- door modules 8P0959801P/802P (my car already had these fitted)
- optic for switch on door handle 8p0919173 C
- new door handle 8P4959522 C7 PE (Sportback remember!)
- mirror 8P2858531 GC (heated, fold, dim, indicator)
- mirror 8P2858532 GC
- switch 4F0 959574 A

The mirrors were available on eBay but pretty poor condition. Prior to getting the mirrors from Mike I got a pair from ECP, one was broken but overall the quality just wasn't there so I sent them back. I was surprised how competitively priced the genuine Audi items were. After a visit to @Ash187 @ AudiRetrofits the mirrors were all fitted and coded, along with TPMS and Hill Start Assist (only coding required for this, I think it's because I have the 1AT ESP)

Maintenance wise, I had a new cam-follower fitted a couple of weeks ago. The one I removed also looked new but no harm in changing it again for piece of mind. I'll be looking to get the Haldex oil and filter changed in the coming weeks too.

This last weekend I fitted my DV+ and on Monday had my Revo (camcoat) and TTS cover fitted...

IMG 0969


It does look very good doesn't it. I'm not sure what I was expecting from it but it's a lot quieter than I was expecting. It also felt like there was a loss of torque/boost but today it was running just fine.

I'll wrap up this post here - sorry for the lengthy read but it's one place where I log my thought process etc...
 
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Nice car mate. If you're into modifiying they never stay standard do they haha.

How much in total was the mirrors? Does do my head in how the dont do it auto (my 98 STI even had auto)
 
How much in total was the mirrors? Does do my head in how the dont do it auto (my 98 STI even had auto)

The folding mirror bases where about £165 per side, the switch (twist switch to make them fold) was £10 off eBay, the door handle was about £25 - I can dig out the receipts to confirm. Luckily I had the correct door modules which are about £170 for the pair on eBay.
 
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Think ill skip them for now then haha. Maybe in future
 
nice s3 mate! about the feeling of power loss, check for any leaks (intercooler pipes, maybe the dv is not tight enough, pcv)
 
nice s3 mate! about the feeling of power loss, check for any leaks (intercooler pipes, maybe the dv is not tight enough, pcv)

I checked all the pipes today and they were all secure. I'm taking it out tomorrow so I'll see how it goes. I'm hoping it will be fine.
 
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I'm looking for some advice - I have and APR HPFP, which I had on the car briefly but took it back off. Although (with a std map) I wouldn't be getting any benefit from it I wasn't sure if would cause any issues leaving it on - would it be ok or should I wait until I get Stg 2+?

I'd rather have it in and in use than sitting in a box...

Thoughts?

IMG 0999
 
I'm looking for some advice - I have and APR HPFP, which I had on the car briefly but took it back off. Although (with a std map) I wouldn't be getting any benefit from it I wasn't sure if would cause any issues leaving it on - would it be ok or should I wait until I get Stg 2+?

I'd rather have it in and in use than sitting in a box...

Thoughts?

View attachment 122433

Fit it just before the map, will be causing extra unnecessary strain on all other components otherwise and possibly overfueling as the map isn't suited for it.
 
Fit it just before the map, will be causing extra unnecessary strain on all other components otherwise and possibly overfueling as the map isn't suited for it.

Yeah I'll wait - shouldn't be too far off. Cheers
 
I've been out and about over the Easter break, 340 miles averaging 34.9 mpg with my Nana driving. I'm pretty impressed really considering my previous 1.8tfsi averaged 39mpg across a similar distance.

Any rate, the brakes are quite noisey and there is vibrating so I've just ordered a set of Vagbremtechnic J Hooked rotors (front and rear).

The fronts are 345mm but I've not noticed that most sites offer 340mm and 345mm for the S3 - have I purchased the wrong size or will they fit fine?

Pads wise - I'm not sure what to get yet. I'm erring towards Mintex 1144 or Pagid - any recommendations? I don't want to spend '000 but want quality.
 
A small cosmetic update - fitted the Team Heko wind deflectors his evening. Have taken he car out yes so I don't have any feedback. Strangely they actually look pretty good.

The rear deflectors don't fit too well but should stay in place and my auto-fold mirrors into the front deflectors.

IMG 1055
 
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Looking forward to reading more about this!

I took my rear deflectors off as didn't have confidence in them staying in place at speed.
 
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Thanks @leshkin - the head wants to move faster than the wallet allows unfortunately. I'm not sure where I'm going with it at the moment but Stg 2+ is the current target then I'll worry about what comes after once I'm there!

I took my rear deflectors off as didn't have confidence in them staying in place at speed.

I expect this will happen this weekend!
 
A quick maintenance update - from reading all the threads and preventative measures meant go through prior to a Stg2+ or similar, I've booked my car in for the following:

- Haldex oil and filter (Filter from eBay)
- Oil pick-up, gasket, filter and oil change (Millers)
- Cam chain and Tensioner
- Fuel filter (1K0201051K)

Hopefully this will keep the maintenance covered for a while!
 
Sounds good mate it's right thing to do before going stage 2+, especially as you'll be going straight from stock which is a huge jump in power.

I like how the title of your build thread states it will be slow progress, yet not even a month after creation, you're already talking about preparring for stage 2+ haha. Here's me 2 years down the line with stage 2+ nowhere to be seen until at least late 2018! I still need to do my own build thread to be fair as I have done a few bits to it now.
 
I'd go down suspension and brakes route first as those mods are the most useful and will get you enjoying the car much more even with stock power to be honest.

Going straight to Stg2+ is actually a sensible route if you think about it. You save on labour and mapping costs and you get a monster jump in power and torque in one go.
 
I like how the title of your build thread states it will be slow progress, yet not even a month after creation, you're already talking about preparring for stage 2+ haha.
:tearsofjoy:

I think it's fear thats making me book the service - if anything happens I'm a little stuffed so hopefully it will all be good. When I run out of money then the thread will stop!

Right - off to fit my LED plate lights from @t8ups!
 
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I have the Vagbremtechnic J Hooks and Mintex pads - I'm not sure when I'll get them fitted. Suspension - I know I need to do something and have KW's on my wishlist. I'm just in two minds as I drive around London most of the time and when on the open road I drive like a nanna. I'm right on the cusp of giving the 16 digit card number to Nige @BCS Nige but that will be a couple of months away.

I think if the maintenance is kept up, with the Revo, BCS, brakes and that, it will buy me some time before I go for the remap...
 
Going straight to Stg2+ is actually a sensible route if you think about it. You save on labour and mapping costs and you get a monster jump in power and torque in one go.

Indeed it is, my only problem is I'm poor at the moment and can't afford to go stage 2+ with other commitments as I still need a DP, HPFP & stage 2+ software plus labour, so I have to settle for the next best thing for the time being :cry:

I think it's fear thats making me book the service - if anything happens I'm a little stuffed so hopefully it will all be good.

I am the same, money is tight and so I prioritise maintenance over performance as I can't afford the car to go kaput, I've ended up spending a couple grand more than intially planned though!

I'm right on the cusp of giving the 16 digit card number to Nige @BCS Nige but that will be a couple of months away.

Lucky guy, I can't wait for the day I have BCS Powervalve WRC TBE! :sunglasses:
 
I have the Vagbremtechnic J Hooks and Mintex pads - I'm not sure when I'll get them fitted. Suspension - I know I need to do something and have KW's on my wishlist. I'm just in two minds as I drive around London most of the time and when on the open road I drive like a nanna. I'm right on the cusp of giving the 16 digit card number to Nige @BCS Nige but that will be a couple of months away.

I think if the maintenance is kept up, with the Revo, BCS, brakes and that, it will buy me some time before I go for the remap...

Opt for AP's as they are for fast road use, you wouldn't require KW's unless you solely wanted them for the stainless steel bodies. They are more than adequate for 2+ use on the road
 
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Opt for AP's as they are for fast road use, you wouldn't require KW's unless you solely wanted them for the stainless steel bodies. They are more than adequate for 2+ use on the road

You know I was thinking AP's - there is great feedback on here about them; it's probably a better option for me.
 
A small cosmetic update (well 2), ECS dip stick and R8 oil cap. I still need to mod the cap so it sits square but now it's in it will probably never happen!
IMG 1153
 
It's few minutes to mod the cap.
 
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I took the car in for the it's maintenance parts to be fitted today. All sorted - is sounds a lot quieter which is possible the oil, not sure.

The following was done:

- Haldex oil and filter (Filter from eBay)
- Oil pick-up & gasket
- Filter and oil change (Millers)
- Cam chain and Tensioner
- Fuel filter (1K0201051K)

I forgot to ask for the PCV to be replaced so I'll do that myself (how do I contact Mike as he doesn't seem to be in here now).

They showed me the haldex filter they removed which was actually really clean. So was the oil pick-up with no gunk stuck in the end.

They did say however that the car 'hasn't been well looked after' - the sump had a burnt oil line around it apparently but he said this could be down to rubbish oil.

I'm not sure what to make of it as the oil pick-up, and filters were clean (which he commented on too) - it's Audi approved so has been Audi services.

Anything to worry about?

Any rate, I now have a slow puncture in the front right which will be sorted tomorrow. I'll also replace al the tyre valves and they are quite perished.
 
Sounds good mate, if your previous cam chain tensioner was on it's way out then that would've caused the cam chain to make more racket then it normally does which is possibly why it's quieter now.

The PCV is a cheap and easy part to replace, even I managed to do it with no problems! Mike can be found on Facebook now under the same username mjr901, the Parts Request function is still active on here with someone else.

Hmm that does seem odd especially as everything else, particularly oil related, was fine. Did he say if there was anything else not right or was it just the burnt oil line around the sump?
 
The PCV is a cheap and easy part to replace, even I managed to do it with no problems! Mike can be found on Facebook now under the same username mjr901, the Parts Request function is still active on here with someone else.

Hmm that does seem odd especially as everything else, particularly oil related, was fine. Did he say if there was anything else not right or was it just the burnt oil line around the sump?

Cheers for the address - I'll get that ordered and shouldn't have any problem fitting it.

The burnt oil was all - he said top was clean and drives strong but it hasn't had an easy life. Maybe I'll just close be lid of this worry box !
 
Hmm probably just a neglectful previous owner then. Providing that everything is looking, sounding & driving ok and you continue to maintain it well, then you should be fine to be honest mate.
 
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Fitted my new PCV valve today. It was a 10 min job but happy it's completed. I'm hoping the screws that hold it on went in ok. Being self tapping type, and the plastic/nylon they screw into I don't think they take much to get damaged.

The old parts looked in good order athough no way to tell internally. The valve itself was stamped 07/11 so I suspect it was original.

Maintenance, pending spark plugs and coils, is now fully up to date. Next up will be getting the brakes fitted and ordering the BCS!
 
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I've had 2 punctures recently, off-side front and off-side rear. Unfortunately where the repair was keeps leaking so I had to by a couple of new tyres.

I've opted for a full set of Michelin PS4's. These were on the wish list but I wasn't planning (or budgeting) on getting now as the Conti-Sports had heaps of life left.
 
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New to here guys, and my first Audi,
Best oil to use? Best mapping to go for? How much is stage 2 with all parts n stuff?
Was going to go for stage one but might just go straight to 2 after reading the above.
I have the automatic gear box in 2009 model, can I still remap?
 
Hi @Richard lupton, I'm using Millers Nanodrive 5-49 NT+ which received good reviews on the forum here. I get it from Opie Oils UK.

Re the mapping, I haven't got there yet - still saving and collecting parts. I was initially thinking stg2+ but may settle for stg2. As for parts, intake and turbo back exhaust is the minimum requirement. Same for manual or auto box but you also have the option of a box remap too. I haven't decided on custom map or off-the-shelf but it all depends on if I move back to New Zealand (with my car!)

It's probably work starting your post in the main forum where you'll get more responses.

Cheers,
 
I've had a couple of fault codes appear recently. Carista has been working well but I've decided to splash out on VCDS and a little Lenovo MIIX 310 to run it.

Pretty nervous about using VCDS but it'll be mainly fault checks. Might try some basic customisations later...

IMG 1292
 
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Good investment mate, what fault codes have you been getting?
 
Hey @HHS3, not too sure just yet to be honest! It arrived last Tuesday so I was able to quickly scan before taking into West London Audi to look at a buzzing from the engine.

I read a P0441 EVAP error and an ABS code (guessing the ABS code is from the punctures a couple of weeks back).

Audi have diagnosed the buzzing to the pulley area but that's it so far - been there a week! They will hopefully look at the P0441 EVAP code but as the couldn't replicate it then said they can't do anything. I'm hoping it appears after their test drive.
 
An update on the buzzing I mentioned in my post above - West London Audi called and confirmed that the buzzing is indeed the cam chain tensioner; its dropped all tension. It will be fixed under warranty but I'm really disappointed as this was replaced new 6 weeks ago. I'll take this up with the VAG Specialist that replaced it but on he upside, at least it's now sorted.
 
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That is terrible that the cam chain tensioner has faulted so soon, it'll be interesting to see whose to blame whether it's the indy or the part itself.. I take it that it was a genuine part you bought?

At least it is covered under warranty and that you caught it early enough before any real damage was done!

This is what Ross Tech has got for your error:

16825/P0441/001089 - EVAP Emission Control Sys: Incorrect Flow

Possible Symptoms

Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) active

Possible Causes

Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Purge Regulator Valve (N80) faulty/jammed
Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Purge Solenoid Valve (N115) faulty/jammed
Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Sealing faulty
Pipes between Tank Breathing and Throttle Body leaky/blocked

Possible Solutions

Check Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Purge Regulator Valve (N80)
Perform Output Test
Check Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Purge Solenoid Valve (N115)
Check Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister
Perform Basic Setting
Check Pipes between Tank Breathing and Throttle Body

Special Notes

When found in the NAR 1.8T Audi A4 1.8T check TSB 24-08-78 or 2010268/3 or Pass-Thru equivalent TSB
When found in the NAR 1.8T VW Passat 1.8T check TSB 01-09-09 or 2005554 or Pass-Thru equivalent TSB
Note: The Passat 26E5 or "R5" recall includes the same software update
Make sure the quick release lines for the N80 valve and vacuum line to LDP are not crossed.
This can also make the engine hard to start after filling up the fuel tank.
 
The parts were genuine Audi - I've used this Indy before. I'm not sure how to approach it really - he'll say I should have taken it back to them as hey warranty their work but when I booked with WL Audi I wasn't expecting this.

Re the code, that's exactly the error I get. WL Audi haven't been able to replicate it (I foolishly cleared the fault) - I'm wondering if it was the hot weather last week contributing to it. I've priced up the N80 with Mike so I'll replace on payday.
 
Hmm that is a tough one, not sure whether it's possible to identify whether the part was at fault or if it was fitted incorrectly, see what Audi say when they come to do the warranty replacement.

I was just trawling through some old threads for something else of which in one of the comments I saw someone say they had the exact same error code of which replacing the N80 valve did the trick!
 
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