I have APR stage 1 software... how long will my stock DV last? I plan on getting a new DV but want to save some $$ and get the right one. Will I know when the stock one goes? is it really bad if it goes? will I still be able to drive?

also I have an '01 1.8tqm with 136k on the odometer... but the oild pump went and audi replaced the engine... due to a recall on the oil pump... has anyone encountered this situation?

not me....and the dv will hold as long as you dont drive it hard.....All you need is a 710n from audi. A lot of people have them and run fine...it is just the dv off of the tt.

The stock dv will be lucky to hold out a month if you have fun with your new power. You can still drive like it, but your top end boost will drop, the amount depending on the size of the tear in the dv.

The 710N won't last forever, but it will last quite a while. I have gone through two 710N's in the past 2 years. FORGE or Baily are other good names that will last longer.