Thinking of an APR Tune

[Dutch77]

No difference, I was very happy with my 42dd pipe from forum sponsor Carformance.

I think Darkshadow meant the analysis the other way around - the hpfp is an upgrade on the mk5 GTIs using the EA113 motor, I believe only the mk6 R and ED35 require one to go full stage 2+.

As I didn't require one I'm not well versed in them, best to read up on them some more. Ultimately depends how far you want to take the car.

[Milos2504]

Thanks for the advice guys.

So my understanding is I get any dump pipe and then go to APR approved dealer and just get the software updated. Is there any recommendations on the dump pipe? Would a cold air intake or the intercooler change need a retune?

I see that 42dd has a full exhaust for $1500 and an APR dump pipe is $1350, hmm.. the dump pipe is also much cheaper.

[Lucas_R]

Thinking of an APR Tune

I use and would recommend the SPM dump pipe from DubAddiction over the 42DD. My 42DD had various fitment issues that i could not resolve (poor design and rubbing on heat shield and gear shifter cables).

The SPM has flawless fitment and also looks great.

[tigger73]

The only times you need a new tune are when you install a DP and also if you do put in a HPFP I think there's a new tune for that one too (best to check on this one though).

If you're going to get both then makes sense to get them done together so you don't have to go back twice.

The air intake and intercooler don't require a new file so there's no need for a tune file for these mods. As long as you don't change the pipe diameter for the intake at the MAF sensor you shouldn't have a problem. Some suppliers give you new pipework and there have been issues with differences in pipe diameter effecting the air flow calculations taken off the MAF sensor. As long as you're just changing the filter element on the front end (pod) you should be fine.

Yes there's a fair bit of difference in pricing for hardware and APR is at the top end of town. You would have to seriously consider your investment in a full APR exhaust when it could be worth close to 20% the value of your car!!!

[Milos2504]

Thank you so much for advice. I think I just have to decide which dump pipe to get. I don't think I will get the full exhaust, like you said tigger it could be worth close to 20% of the value of my car.

I think forged twintake comes with a new pipe, but I don't know if it's different size to stock. I might send them an email and check.

[dArK5HaD0w]

I kinda want the sound but that sound would cost me a lot haha
Is there much difference in power between stage 2 and stage 2+, does the hpfp make much difference?
Are all your upgrades APR?

yup, all my upgrades r apr, including the dsg tune upgrade.

no difference between 2 and 2+.
the vRS already comes (std) with the upgraded hpfp - hence the "+" bit.
I just had the full exhaust (APR 3" RSC) fitted, which as tigger pointed out comes with a new file/tune, known as "Stage 2".

I toyed with idea of the apr intake aswell, but the apr mechanic suggested I don't as it doesn't make a difference on the EA888 TSI engines. again, as tigger pointed out - an intake doesn't warrant a new file/tune.

better off with an intercooler upgrade instead of the intake, which i'm yet to entertain the idea myself.

[Milos2504]

yup, all my upgrades r apr, including the dsg tune upgrade.

no difference between 2 and 2+.
the vRS already comes (std) with the upgraded hpfp - hence the "+" bit.
I just had the full exhaust (APR 3" RSC) fitted, which as tigger pointed out comes with a new file/tune, known as "Stage 2".

I toyed with idea of the apr intake aswell, but the apr mechanic suggested I don't as it doesn't make a difference on the EA888 TSI engines. again, as tigger pointed out - an intake doesn't warrant a new file/tune.

better off with an intercooler upgrade instead of the intake, which i'm yet to entertain the idea myself.

Did you feel a lot of difference when you got the stage 2 (exhaust) done? Was the car noticeably faster or?

This sort of makes me think, I kind of want the intake more for the sound, I know its a waste of money.. I guess I have to think about this..

[Milos2504]

So I've done a bit of research and figured that I can get a downpipe for about $800 to $1000. It would cost me around $120 to get it fitted and $250 for stage 2 file from APR. Should I just go with the APR downpipe then, coz it works out to be the same?

[Dutch77]

So I've done a bit of research and figured that I can get a downpipe for about $800 to $1000. It would cost me around $120 to get it fitted and $250 for stage 2 file from APR. Should I just go with the APR downpipe then, coz it works out to be the same?

If it works out the same then definitely look into it - it's a nice bit of work, just very pricey.

IIRC there might be some fitment issues between an APR dump mating to a stock catback though - easy enough to look into though.

[Martin]

Did you feel a lot of difference when you got the stage 2 (exhaust) done? Was the car noticeably faster or

I've got the APR down pipe and stage 2 tune and CAI and intercooler - see my signature

The APR stage 1 was a nice/easy boost but the top end is not all there,
it did not sound happy and the stock tune rev'ed out quicker over 5.5K
Stage 2 cleans up the top end, solid power to red line and revs out cleanly/quickly (better breathing?)
but it also provides yet more mid range - it's really awesome
It took me a fair while to learn restraint getting away from the start as the car just can't put all that power on the road
But once you get it moving nicely you can ease deep into the throttle and have a good time

When I got the stage 1 tune I thought that was cool - went home and parked the car
When I got the stage 2 tune I was driving around for 3 hours late at night enjoying it
That was the trigger for the BBK upgrade, I could go faster in a shorter distance/time, but needed more brakes

The CAI was a waste of money - just looks nice under the bonnet and no more paper air filter to replace

The intercooler solved the whistle sound I had, air running around the intercooler and pipes
(Google Skoda Whistle - numerous YouTube and Forum references to it)
Here is a good example of the whistle from outside my car

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2K9QtqkwVo

Here is my in car footage around Muralan
- The CAI does not make much cool noise
- from time to time you can hear the whistle

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LK1PID3nDts

Other than that, it's really hard to evaluate the intercooler benefit

Some people get a cheap down pipe without a CAT - if you get caught it will hurt
The APR down pipe has a 200 cell CAT which can just pass the emissions tests
If in need, APR could probably provide the paperwork should you need it

I would love to try the DSG flash - just have not got around to it
(And my Nissan 350Z is sucking up all spare money)

[Martin]

IIRC there might be some fitment issues between an APR dump mating to a stock catback though - easy enough to look into though.

I think it's the Passat kit and comes with an adapter sleeve

[Milos2504]

If it works out the same then definitely look into it - it's a nice bit of work, just very pricey.

IIRC there might be some fitment issues between an APR dump mating to a stock catback though - easy enough to look into though.

At the moment the APR one is on 10% sale so its around $1230. Now does that include the labor cost or do I have to pay extra for them to fit the down pipe.

@Martin thanks a lot for the info, I enjoy the stage 1 tune at the moment, but I am getting a bit over it and I want a bit more so I think stage 2 would be a nice upgrade I like the CAI because of the sound I had one on my previous car (WRX) and loved it

[brad]

Doubt the cost includes labour but as a "rusted-on" APR customer you never know unless you ask them.

[Dutch77]

^ Correct. Each dealer has their own labour charge so the web prices are parts only, but some APR dealers may install that for minimal charge.

[Milos2504]

Thanks for your help guys, I might give VW Centre a call and ask them