View Full Version : TO CHIP or Not TO CHIP!!


jasmix
11-25-2007, 04:12 AM
I just bought a 2001 2.7T (Auto) with 84k miles + Sports Winter package + Xenon Bose etc for 7k is it a good buy??
so should I chip it?
Im not sure if the timing belt was changed.

if not the Chip what other mods should I start with??

ppgoal
11-25-2007, 03:11 PM
Sounds like a great buy. I hope you had it checked out by someone who knows Audis. Unless you've got wads of cash laying around, you should focus on the timing belt change first. It's going to set up back about a grand or so. Needs to be done soon. I did mine at 94k, which everyone said was waiting too long.

I chipped my car at 74k and it is still fine at 105k. I did have to replace the clutch and flywheel, but you have the automatic. I also drive it conservatively, when it comes to acceleration. The chip makes the biggest single difference in performance. If you consider GIAC, they also make a chip for the transmission that speeds up the shift points.

formulagigi
11-25-2007, 05:35 PM
Congrats! Good buy, as above I hope you did a PPI with an Audi pro. at 84k, the beelt and waterpump service may have been done. It should be done b/w 65 and 75k miles in my opinion. Don't want it to go bad on you and it has to be done, so might as well be safe and do it timely.

I say CHIP it! It is the best $500 you'll spend on your Audi :) well there are others mod like but... 70 hp and +110 Tq!!!! it is amazing, let the guys flash it and in 15-20 minutes you'll ahve a new car! I love APR because it is easier on the Turbos and less aggressive. but GIAC is another great brand out there and is more aggressive, some say a little faster faster.
Also get new DV's and TBB (or APR Bipipe) for reliability and you'll be golden! Many acrs outthere chipped in the 100K miles. Just maintain it and never push it cold, let is cool off after spirited driving.
Good luck!

jasmix
11-25-2007, 06:24 PM
kool, how can I check the Belts where changed? the engine looks practically brand new
So GIAC or APR for engine and GIAC for Transmission > where can I get it from in VA 20165?

formulagigi
11-26-2007, 01:04 PM
First, go to your local Audi dealer or any Audi dealer really and get the, to print yuo a service history report. They can do it and it is free. They did for me after I bought my Audi even though I did not buy it from them. That will tell you everything that has been done by an Audi dealer to your car. Also can yuo get the invoices/receipts from the dealer you bought the car from? Can you get to the previsou owner? was it a local car? .. If you can't get ths history. get you indy shop to look at it for you. Am not sure how to tell whether it was done just by lifting the hood. Auditech might.

GIAC and APR are both good,I would go with which ever is supported by your local shop. If you have both locally, then My preference is APR for driveability and ease on Turbos... Just my opinion and also what I read from vairous forum members.

I would skip the GIAC Tip chip as i heard it was not worth the $ unless you can get it cheap. Just do the free VAG recode. If $ is not aproblem and yuo want the chip, get a spare used ECU and put the TIP chip on it to save your stock one. just in case

COJAM
11-26-2007, 01:23 PM
So...an APR flash alone will bring 70 and 110? Is it worth it without any other mods? Im at 80K and considering taking it to the APR guys in town. Since I have an auto is there a tranny flash as well that can be done? what other mod should I consider?

Burzum
11-27-2007, 08:50 AM
Stock S4 owner here. I had a chance to ride in a GIAC chipped A6 2.7T(tip)with Exhaust, Intake and DVs. OMG! It was SO much fun! You will serious love your car that much more ifyou get the chip.

Joeski
11-27-2007, 12:41 PM
ORIGINAL: jasmix

kool, how can I check the Belts where changed? the engine looks practically brand new
So GIAC or APR for engine and GIAC for Transmission > where can I get it from in VA 20165?




If you are in the Springfield area, New German Performance is there. We are an APR distributor.

OOOO

formulagigi
11-27-2007, 01:10 PM
ORIGINAL: COJAM

So...an APR flash alone will bring 70 and 110? Is it worth it without any other mods? Im at 80K and considering taking it to the APR guys in town. Since I have an auto is there a tranny flash as well that can be done? what other mod should I consider?


SURE! APR 93 octane will get you 318hp and 380lbs of TQ. 91 octane is about 300hp I think....not sure. NO APR flash for tranny, GIAC makes a chip but pricey for no proven results according to many on Audizine. VAG 32 recodeis free :) and will get yuo first gear!

The APR chip is absolutely worth it even without other mods. I would strongly conmsider upgrading the DVs (Audi's 710's are fine and cheap) and the TBB though. ANother good mod is athe Piggy pipes, 335 from VAST plus install and yuo'll see more power/torque as well as reduce tmeperature behinf the turbos. Works well with chipped car.

Tha Abbot
11-27-2007, 02:06 PM
ORIGINAL: formulagigi

ORIGINAL: COJAM

So...an APR flash alone will bring 70 and 110? Is it worth it without any other mods? Im at 80K and considering taking it to the APR guys in town. Since I have an auto is there a tranny flash as well that can be done? what other mod should I consider?


SURE! APR 93 octane will get you 318hp and 380lbs of TQ. 91 octane is about 300hp I think....not sure. NO APR flash for tranny, GIAC makes a chip but pricey for no proven results according to many on Audizine. VAG 32 recodeis free :) and will get yuo first gear!

The APR chip is absolutely worth it even without other mods. I would strongly conmsider upgrading the DVs (Audi's 710's are fine and cheap) and the TBB though. ANother good mod is athe Piggy pipes, 335 from VAST plus install and yuo'll see more power/torque as well as reduce tmeperature behinf the turbos. Works well with chipped car.


Are the Stainless steal DV's basically the same as the 710's?, Basically are they just for looks?

What about bigger DV's?

formulagigi
11-27-2007, 07:11 PM
Not sure about bigger DV's, if you'd benefit.. I know your engione cover would not fit ;)

I had hyperboost DVs and now have maintenance free APR's but really you don't ahve to spend that kind of $ if you're on a budget. Some Stage3 guys run the 710's. I think they are liek 40 bucks or so.. aftermarket typically are 150+...

Burzum
11-28-2007, 09:37 AM
The A6 I saw had Baily DVs and the cover fit without an issue. I'm not sure if those are classified as "bigger" or not.

Tha Abbot
11-28-2007, 12:11 PM
I was always against chipping for different reason, but you pretty much have to chip them, the autos anyway. I try to run a older Acura TL (2003) and a Neon SRT-4, both beat me.

formulagigi
11-28-2007, 01:50 PM
yeap if your car is an Auto especially, it is NO match for a Neon SRT-4,even chipped I think.
The TL should be close to your car stock, but you'd definitely beat it once chipped.... Propbably run a mid 5 with chip

Tha Abbot
11-28-2007, 03:41 PM
Thats a let down 4real because the SRT-4 only dothe 1/4 mile in a 14.7 and the A6 auto cant beat that even with the chip[sm=boosign.gif]. I had a course between the A6 and a Volvo S60 R, I went for the A6 because of the price. I really dont want to void my warranty with the chip[sm=headbang.gif]

formulagigi
11-28-2007, 07:02 PM
I know a local SRT4 that runs much faster than 14.7 stock, those are quick... Your car stock will run abuot that and low 14's chipped maybe lower if yuo can drive it :) If they arec indeed 14.7 cars then yuo could run with one chipped but I think they run faster than that

I doubt a dealer will void your warranty systemically due to chip! Maybe of you ahve a engine problem possibly related to the extra power, but not ALL repairs... That would not be legal I think. YUO can easily prove for example that a chip did not cause your window regualtor, or A/C unit or... to break down...

Burzum
11-29-2007, 08:56 AM
You could get a flashloader and switch between programs. When you take it to the dealer just flash it back to stock and they wouldn't know. I thought I heard a case of the dealer flashing over an ECU once though and wiping out someones APR or GIAC...

Tha H.N.I.C
11-29-2007, 09:45 AM
ORIGINAL: Tha Abbot

Thats a let down 4real because the SRT-4 only dothe 1/4 mile in a 14.7 and the A6 auto cant beat that even with the chip[sm=boosign.gif]. I had a course between the A6 and a Volvo S60 R, I went for the A6 because of the price. I really dont want to void my warranty with the chip[sm=headbang.gif]


This is a let down. For me, it was a toss up between theMazdaspeed 6 and theA6, but I was talking into getting the A6 because Audi is in a higher class then Mazda. Also, I thought the A6 would be a lot faster then what it is because it has the S4 engine and by it being twin turbo. I mean the car is faster then the 1999 Mazda Millenia S that i traded to get the A6, but I guess that i was thinking or hoping to beat up on bigger cars. Meaning cars other then Civics and Integras.

formulagigi
11-29-2007, 02:09 PM
ORIGINAL: Tha H.N.I.C

ORIGINAL: Tha Abbot

Thats a let down 4real because the SRT-4 only dothe 1/4 mile in a 14.7 and the A6 auto cant beat that even with the chip[sm=boosign.gif]. I had a course between the A6 and a Volvo S60 R, I went for the A6 because of the price. I really dont want to void my warranty with the chip[sm=headbang.gif]


This is a let down. For me, it was a toss up between theMazdaspeed 6 and theA6, but I was talking into getting the A6 because Audi is in a higher class then Mazda. Also, I thought the A6 would be a lot faster then what it is because it has the S4 engine and by it being twin turbo. I mean the car is faster then the 1999 Mazda Millenia S that i traded to get the A6, but I guess that i was thinking or hoping to beat up on bigger cars. Meaning cars other then Civics and Integras.


The Maszda6 is awesome for the $ and you won't have regulator, copil pack issues :) It is also faster than the A6 2.7T and handles better. But the Audi is a nicer car, lke you said a different/higher class! The A6 has a good engine with lots of potential too but it is too heavy, way too heavy!!!! Theb 6spd tranny helps though, about 1/2 sec faster.
Chipped though, our A6's really rock!

formulagigi
11-29-2007, 02:11 PM
ORIGINAL: Burzum

You could get a flashloader and switch between programs. When you take it to the dealer just flash it back to stock and they wouldn't know. I thought I heard a case of the dealer flashing over an ECU once though and wiping out someones APR or GIAC...


I have the ability to switch b/w stock and 93. I tmight help but if they want to, they can check and see that you're chipped. there are logs I believe.

Coors
11-29-2007, 09:08 PM
GIGI, what chip are you runnng and were did you have it done. Whats the difference between the chips on ECStuning.com (programs...1,2,3and4). What does that mean? Also, does chipping have any negative effects on the car. And how could it be erased? Sorry, for the test here. Thanks!

formulagigi
11-30-2007, 12:42 AM
I have the APR software, flashed by GMP Performance in Charlotte, NC in maybe 20 minutes. I have the sotck and 93 octane programs plus the Throttle Body alignment and Fault code eraser.
ECS tuning sells the APR software, all the different programs just like GMP does. Same thing.
There is actually a sale on APR chips for the holidays, I was just told yesterdayby Stephen the owner of GMP as I was talking to him about going stage 3 with the APR kit. So if you want the APR chip, do it now.
Porgam 1, 2 3.... just mean how many of their programs/options you want: Stock, 91 oct, 93, 100, Valet mode, APR security lock out, Anti=theft.
So you can pick just one, most people do 91 or 93 oct, or TWO programs, like 93 and stock in case you want to switch back and forth, or 3 or all... YOU can select/switch programs with the cruise control button.

INcreasing boost will free tremendous power form your car so will more strain on engine... It is recommended to upgrade DV's and TTB. APR chip keep the car very reliable and driveable.
Incredible mod for the $.
It could be erased by overriding the program. Say by a dealer... rare though I think.
To me chipping with APR is a no brainer.

Coors
12-01-2007, 09:00 PM
Nice! Do you notice a significant increase in power with the chip? Does it increase low end and top power? I am still a little leary about the chip, I love my car and don't want to subject it to any pre-mature failure. Thoughts??

hey51515
12-02-2007, 02:05 AM
Coors, I'm located in Philly as-well. Let me know what and if you get a chip or flashed from who in Philly. I have no clue what one or the other does; but my 2002 A6 3.0l needs to be faster.

formulagigi
12-02-2007, 02:08 PM
ORIGINAL: Coors

Nice! Do you notice a significant increase in power with the chip? Does it increase low end and top power? I am still a little leary about the chip, I love my car and don't want to subject it to any pre-mature failure. Thoughts??

VERY SIGNIFICANt!!!! Imagine driving two identical cars back to back, one with 250 hp and 250 lb tq, the other (same weight, same everything) with 320hp and 380 lb tq!!!! HUGE difference especially for the price and you'll fell it even in the low RPMs. If you take care of the car, maintain it well, oil change with good oil every 5000 miles max, upgrade DVs and TBB, you'll be fine. Also always let it warm up before running it hard and let it cool off a little beofre turning it off after spirited driving...

mathewdavid21@aol.co
12-02-2007, 09:42 PM
I just bought an 04 2.7T, Which company can demo the ECU flash and do they charge for the demo flash. I chipped a Porsche for 1k and it was not very noticeable. I sure would like to test drive it first. How much to upgrade the DV's and TBB. Is there any real gain on air filter and or intake. What about lowering springs. Thanks.

formulagigi
12-03-2007, 01:18 AM
There is noticeable change from the ECU, trust the hundreds or thousands who've done it on this forum or Audizine. I don't know in you area, but GMP does 1hr demos for free. Where are you? Find a local APR dealer and call them up for a demo. Or find someone on a forum that is local to you and have them give you a ride.
Not sure about aftermakret TBB's, check on line. I did the APR bipipe and love it: $300. Upgraded TBBs are cheaper. Aftermarket DV's like Hyperboost or APR's R1 are about 160 each and it is a DIY install. You can just get Audi 710 DV;s from the TT and they'll run you a lot less, I think they sued to be in the $40's.
Yes lowering is a good idea. Although you can go cheap and just do springs, it will be bouncy and wear out your shocks prematurely. Do Shocks and springs or set of Coil Overs like PSS9, H&R's or KW3's.
Don't waste your $ on air intake on our cars... Not productive. get sway bars instead.

ok here's prices on the SAMCO TBB and APR Bipipe" $70 and $350 but I think there is a sale on APR product
http://www.gmpperformance.com/index.cfm?PG=byVehicle_list_parts&CID=5622

formulagigi
12-03-2007, 01:22 AM
try this too
http://www.ecstuning.com/stage/edpd/pagebuild_v2.cgi/?html=learnmore.html&productID=618





APR Bi-Pipe Kit **Includes 2 New Forge 007P's (Black)** -Limited Time Only[/align]Bolt in replacement for troublesome throttle body boot[/align]

The APR Bi-Pipe Kit eliminates any and all reliability issues of the 2.7T throttle body boot. This cast aluminum pieces features recirculation valve ports that are enlarged which helps in reducing boost spikes during gearshifts and improves turbo response after the shift. The BiPipe bolts to the throttle body and is sealed by an O-ring. This is the first in a long line of products that APR has developed in-house using its SLA technology.

SALE!
$549.95
$614.95
http://www.ecstuning.com/stage/images/vehicle_splash/buynow-nbg.gif (http://www.ecstuning.com/stage/edpd/pagebuild_v2.cgi/?html=learnmore.html&productID=618#)

formulagigi
12-03-2007, 01:32 AM
http://www.ecstuning.com/stage/edpd/pagebuild_v2.cgi?make=Audi&engine=2.7T&model=C5%20 A6&submodel=Quattro&searchqt=onsale
this page has all you need, All DV;s, FORGE, APR and N710's.... plus Bipipe. You can get the APR Bipipe plus 2 N710 DVs for 389 plus shipping OR the APR Bipipe and two FORGE DVs for $549 and free shipping

Coors
12-03-2007, 11:06 AM
Wow! OK! Thanks GIGI. Whats the deal with the demo chip. Will a local shop flash your ECU for an hour or so, to let you test drive the chip, so to speak?

formulagigi
12-03-2007, 12:48 PM
Yup! I've seen it done at GMP Ask your lcoal guy if he'll do it

Teutonic2.7T
12-03-2007, 02:26 PM
does anyone know a a good shop in nyc or CT?

the chip sounds too good to be true.. what are the downsides really... i'm assuming:
-paying more for gas
-premature engine wear
-greater emissions

anyone want to list a comprehensive list of pros and cons?? if it hasn't been done already it sounds like a sticky to me!

Burzum
12-03-2007, 04:27 PM
From what I've heard in my research (not my actual experience). My S4 gets GIAC'd on Friday :D I can't wait!

Pro: Slight increase in gas mileage if you can keep your foot out of it
Con: You can't keep your foot out of it.

Pro: More power and all that jazz (duh)
Con: Higher boost and your inability to keep your foot out of it cause the turbos to wear a little faster

Pro: You get to replace your K03s a little sooner with K04s!
Con: You have to buy a new flash/chip for the K04s

Pro: Free upgraded tune if you get the fuel kit on your K03s.

Tha Abbot
12-03-2007, 05:01 PM
ORIGINAL: Teutonic2.7T

does anyone know a a good shop in nyc or CT?

the chip sounds too good to be true.. what are the downsides really... i'm assuming:
-paying more for gas
-premature engine wear
-greater emissions

anyone want to list a comprehensive list of pros and cons?? if it hasn't been done already it sounds like a sticky to me!




PROS.
1.) 70 extra hp = Speed = more fun to drive

CONS
1.) Voids any warranty that you might have (about $1700-$2400 for a aftermarket warranty)(Dealer Warranty). http://www.giacusa.com/faq.php(Question #6)

2.) Deal won't installed (if your a dealer person like me)

3.) You might lose money, $500-$1000 for the chipif the dealer flash it and $1700-$2400 for the warranties

4.) Engine strain which can led toengine problemsand without a warranty equals a whole lot of money

5.) Need to upgrade your brake system so you can stopthe 4000 lbs cars

6.) You must replace the throttle boby boot ($40-$60 or$300 for a bipipe)and the diverter valves ($40-$150)(x2)

Teutonic2.7T
12-03-2007, 05:32 PM
this is good, please keep it going. I(or one of you) can post the results in a new tag.

formulagigi
12-03-2007, 07:09 PM
ORIGINAL: Tha Abbot

PROS.
1.) 70 extra hp = Speed = more fun to drive

CONS
1.) Voids any warranty that you might have (about $1700-$2400 for a aftermarket warranty)(Dealer Warranty). http://www.giacusa.com/faq.php(Question #6)

2.) Deal won't installed (if your a dealer person like me)

3.) You might lose money, $500-$1000 for the chipif the dealer flash it and $1700-$2400 for the warranties

4.) Engine strain which can led toengine problemsand without a warranty equals a whole lot of money

5.) Need to upgrade your brake system so you can stopthe 4000 lbs cars

6.) You must replace the throttle boby boot ($40-$60 or$300 for a bipipe)and the diverter valves ($40-$150)(x2)

With regards to your cons:
1- not necessarily true. Never had an issue with AUDi or Aftermarket warranty.
2- I don't understand your #2
3- Your shopshould reflash it. YOu bough the right tot hat software
4- Not that nuch of a strain to the engine itself. TURBOS maybe a little, a lot if yuo don't maintain it and beat it up and don't do the warmups/coold down.... there are a lot fo chipped 2.7 with > 100k miles JUST follow the above and upgrade your DVS to N710 for $80 and a SMACO TBB or APR bipipe... YOu'll address most of your concerns
5- ??? YUO can but don't have to... it is not like you're addnig 500hp :) But better pads and $150 SS brake lines help :)
6- Good idea to do so but even if yuo pay 500 or 60 for the chip and 140 for DVs and TBB, that's a steal for 70hp and 120+lb TQ IMO

Burzum
12-03-2007, 10:41 PM
I checked my TBB the other day and found that it was starting to wear at the clamp. I flipped the sharp part of the clamp to fresh rubber and reinstalled the TBB. I guess maybe I'm a little cheap. Instead of the BiPipe upgrade I found a silicon TBB for around $67 (http://www.awe-tuning.com/pages/shared/part_detail.cfm?PMaI=1&PMoI=4&PEI=6&PP=s4_27t_driv etrain.cfm&PPT=Drivetrain&IL=S4Samco). I'll pick up some new hose clamps from AutoZone and slap that on there and save the rest of the $290 for something else.

Teutonic2.7T
12-04-2007, 10:47 AM
friends, friends friends... what i meant was to continue our healthy argument of the pros and cons of chipping,draft a comprehensive list based on everyones input then post it. tha abbot's repost was a little too early; sorry for the misunderstanding.

So, from what i see here we have:

Pros:
- 70 extra hp
- Acceleration, beat-out other drivers
- fun spirited driving experience

Cons:
-paying more for gas
-premature engine wear
-greater emissions
- may void your warranty
- not cheap, and if you dont diy, you must go to an indy shop.. not for the weak-of-heartDealer Only types
-Should upgrade your brake system so you can stopthe 4000 lbs car
- You must replace the throttle body boot ($40-$60 or$300 for a bipipe)and the diverter valves ($40-$150)(x2)




EVERYONE, what do we add? what is unnecessary? - can we get some experts over here!! tech certified?

also, who has a full list of what is needed for a chip. piggies, breaks, ko4's etc.

Coors
12-04-2007, 10:40 PM
I'm with Tuetonic2.7T. I wanna hear more horror stories and the kind of stories that put silly little smirks on your faces when you leave other high end cars in the dust. I am going down tomorrow to my local APR rep... (in reply to hey51515 comment's) this is our local APR shop.

Carlos Performance
842 Red Lion Road
Suite 21
Philadelphia,PA19115

I am going to try to get him to flash me for an hour or so. If not, I still am curious to see whatall the logistics are behind the upgradefor the direct port software (if applicable).

I'll let you guys know how I made out. Hopefully, I'm the one with the silly little smirk onhis face tomorrow!

Tha H.N.I.C
12-05-2007, 11:49 AM
ORIGINAL: Coors

I'm with Tuetonic2.7T. I wanna hear more horror stories and the kind of stories that put silly little smirks on your faces when you leave other high end cars in the dust. I am going down tomorrow to my local APR rep... (in reply to hey51515 comment's) this is our local APR shop.

Carlos Performance
842 Red Lion Road
Suite 21
Philadelphia,PA19115

I am going to try to get him to flash me for an hour or so. If not, I still am curious to see whatall the logistics are behind the upgradefor the direct port software (if applicable).

I'll let you guys know how I made out. Hopefully, I'm the one with the silly little smirk onhis face tomorrow!



I’m with you guys. I would like to hear some horror stories too, but everyone who has it done seems to be happy with it, so we might not hear too many of them

formulagigi
12-05-2007, 01:47 PM
never heard any on any of the four forums I am on but I am sure there are some.... but I would venture to say there'd be more to them thanjust CHIPPING MY CAR BLEW the Turbos! COmmon sense, good maintenance are key! :)

I love to blow a Boxter's doors off! :)

Coors
12-05-2007, 02:04 PM
Well, the snow came today in Philly, (Quattro_time) so no can do the trip to my local APR rep. Hopefully, tomorrow.

Fast3.0a6
12-06-2007, 06:48 PM
i also have an 03 3.0Q was thinkin bout a chip to increase more hp/what ya'll think?

formulagigi
12-06-2007, 07:45 PM
Don't know who akes a chip for the 3.0, and being atmospheric, you will see minimal gain unfortunately