Chips and dip(well, a chip at least)

[LaDubDude]

I'm looking for a chip for my new-to-me 2001 Jetta Wolfsburg (1.8t). I've heard of chips that actually increase power and make the engine run more efficiently. Is this true or just an urban myth?

My buddy has a 2003 GTI 1.8t that just roasts me off the line . . .

Also, what does it do they do to my boost setting? I realize that all chips are different, but a few of you guys must know about the tolerances of the stock set up and how far I can go to have a quick car that won't end up with major problems in 18 months or something. What's the stock boost value compared to some aftermarket chips?

Lastly, do i need to send away my ECU or is this just a 'recommended' step by chip manufacturers to limit their liability should anything go wrong?

thanks

[Kor]

Re: Chips and dip(well, a chip at least)

I'm looking for a chip for my new-to-me 2001 Jetta Wolfsburg (1.8t). I've heard of chips that actually increase power and make the engine run more efficiently. Is this true or just an urban myth?

Also, what does it do they do to my boost setting? I realize that all chips are different, but a few of you guys must know about the tolerances of the stock set up and how far I can go to have a quick car that won't end up with major problems in 18 months or something. What's the stock boost value compared to some aftermarket chips?

Lastly, do i need to send away my ECU or is this just a 'recommended' step by chip manufacturers to limit their liability should anything go wrong?

I will stick to your questions here rather than trying to sell any one product.

Yes, you can improve performance and economy. The economy part depends on your driving style... if you find you are putting the pedal to the floor all the time after getting chipped, obviously the car will use more gas. If you drive the same speeds, then you should get better economy.

All chips increase your boost from about 10psi to about 15psi. This does push your turbo closer to the edge of its operating range, however there have been few if any cases of anyone having problems with the 1.8t in the past 6 years or however long it has been available. You can safely chip your car for better performance and not worry about it causing damage. The chiptuning companies have been fairly responsible to only sell programs that won't cause long term problems, with the possible exception of some recent developments as companies become more competitive and users ask them for more and more performance.

You do not need to send your ECU away. Most cities have at least one local representative who can either flash your ECU from the ODBII port inside the car or who can chip the ECU while you wait. I highly recommend getting it done locally so that you can avoid possible problems with shipping, damage, and technical support.

If you live in Calgary, EUTuning does Upsolute chips, C1 does APR chips, and I think there is a Revo dealer in Edmonton.

[VAG_Tech]

Re: Chips and dip(well, a chip at least)

You can even find a "spare ecu" and chip that one. It will save down time. But the drawback is that you have to code the ecu to the cluster each time.

[Kor]

Re: Chips and dip(well, a chip at least)

You can even find a "spare ecu" and chip that one. It will save down time. But the drawback is that you have to code the ecu to the cluster each time. Another pain in the a$$. Especially if you don't have access to a Vag-Com or Vag scan tool. Also the "secret 7 digit code is a pain to get unless you already have one then you can program your Vag-Com for the day you got the code and then it's not too bad. The seven digit code is going to get even harder to get. Only two people in the dealership I work at can get them and, you have to use the VAS 5051 or the VAS 5052. It also has to be hooked up to your car and be on the internet while the adaptation is done! Luckilly, I know the guy who is authorized to get the codes at the dealership. It's the guy that runs DnF Motors... That's Me!

You don't need to recode the ECU to the cluster each time... only the first time. I know you're quite knowledgable but I swap two ECU's in and out all the time.

I am pretty sure VW needs to give me my 7 digit code as long as I own the car and can prove I am the owner? I don't know if its legal for them to refuse me the right to do my own repairs, if say my cluster broke or I accidentally ran over my ECU and needed to replace it... I understand why they need to make it secure since it relates to the vehicle's security etc.

Anyhow I got my 7 digit code from the techs at SCFC last year they didn't even ask me why... wham bam here's your key.

[R_Ethug]

Re: Chips and dip(well, a chip at least)

yea bart can get them over the phone now LOL! i had no issues getting mine either.

[NeonGTI]

Re: Chips and dip(well, a chip at least)

Isn't there a REVO dealer at Matrix Motorsports in the new Toyota dealership in the North?

Chips good.

I keep pushing mine hard and I haven't managed to destroy anything in the 30,000 km mine has been 'in'.

[LaDubDude]

Re: Chips and dip(well, a chip at least)

Thanks guys - helpful as always.

[VAG_Tech]

Re: Chips and dip(well, a chip at least)

You don't need to recode the ECU to the cluster each time... only the first time. I know you're quite knowledgable but I swap two ECU's in and out all the time.

I am pretty sure VW needs to give me my 7 digit code as long as I own the car and can prove I am the owner? I don't know if its legal for them to refuse me the right to do my own repairs, if say my cluster broke or I accidentally ran over my ECU and needed to replace it... I understand why they need to make it secure since it relates to the vehicle's security etc.

Anyhow I got my 7 digit code from the techs at SCFC last year they didn't even ask me why... wham bam here's your key.

Depends on the year and such. Anyways, VW is implementing a program called Greco. We will no longer be able to just get your vin and VWZ7Z... numbers and generate a 7 digit code. We will HAVE to do it through the VAS5051 or VAS5052. So keep your codes and remember the date you got them then with Vag Com you can work the magic.