Provided everything goes okay when I have the car checked next week, I'll be getting the APR chip ($399) and a new diverter valve at the end of the month. I found a place that's less than 20 minutes from work.


How long should the install take?
Is there anything else I should know before going in?
I've read through some of the archives, but I'm new to this whole process.

 

Should take about 10 minutes to solder in the chip.

 

If you're driving the car there and the dealer/installer is ready (without other work to delay your appointment), you will wait 20-30 minutes. Be aware that the car will immediately drive with more power, but it will take some time for the ecu and throttle body to fix their alignment and communicate properly. Figure the first 100 miles or so will sort out the remapping. Don't be shy with the car; drive it as you would under any condition. Just be prepared to sense the driving/power to be "irregular" for the first few hours of driving.

Secondly, after the chip is installed, make sure they do the initial throttle body alignment before the ignition is cranked. You can always do this yourself: Turn the ignition to electrical power on (don't start the engine) and leave it in the on position for two minutes. Then turn the ignition to off and then start the car. (NOTE: This can be done with a VAG, too.)

There really is nothing else for you to do or to prepare the car (assuming the car is properly tuned and not in need of any service).

 

Thanks. I'm sure they'll tell me everything I need to know there. The place only works with Audi and VW, so they must be quite competent. Also, I went to school with the guy who works there. I just don't want them charging me for 2 hours of work when it takes 20 minutes.