GIAC Stage 1 Review/Upgrading to Stage 2

[Audi403]

So I got my GIAC stage 1 tune installed last Friday on my 2012 DSG. I also have an Injen intake installed on her. First impressions, it didn't really do much. But as others have said the ECU just needed some time to "learn" the tune. The next day is when I noticed it, quite a nice boost in power but nothing huge. I really noticed how it pulls through the gears quicker and the dead spot after 5000 is gone.

Decided to go with the stage 2 GIAC for more low end torque and the extra gains all around. I'm not setting my expectations too high because I don't want to be dissapointed but I'm hoping for some nice noticeable gains. Install is booked for Wednesday!

How much extra power are we talking about if I add an exhaust to my setup? Was thinking Miltek with resonated downpipes (I like the sound of Miltek the best) but AWE would be my second option (soley based off YouTube clips).

Also from anyone who has the GIAC TCU flash for the transmission let me know how you like it. I'm debating getting this as well and am most looking forward to higher launch control rpm and quicker shifts!

[S4Phantom]

When I got the stage 1 it did take some time for a noticeable change, but I'm happy so far. Thinking about Stage 2 in the future. Dumb question but does the TCU flash for the transmission get rid of that "hard" downshift from 2-1 when at very low speed ie; in traffic? I've emailed GIAC and messaged a GIAC guy on here but they haven't responded. Please don't flame me if I'm already supposed to know this. Also I have Milltek Non res on my 2011 and I love it, sounds so good.

[rs4dreams]

Stage 2 is great because you have significant power gains at all RPMs, not just above 5k. That's the reason I went straight to stage 2 from stock.

Based on the available data, an exhaust doesn't seem to provide much of an increase in power (maybe 5 hp). Definitely won't be noticeable. It only seems to provide a boost when paired with headers. It's just a nice noise mod (which is important to a lot of people). Intakes provide more gains, perhaps in the 10-15 hp range depending on whether or not you're tuned. Intakes also have a positive effect on throttle response.

[Audi403]

Also I have Milltek Non res on my 2011 and I love it, sounds so good.

Are you DSG as well? Was thinking about non resonated but don't want to have a whole lot of drone.

[S4Phantom]

Are you DSG as well? Was thinking about non resonated but don't want to have a whole lot of drone.

I am DSG and I get no drone. Only if I leave it like right on 80mph steady Ill get a tiny bit but nothing that's annoying. I drive around 120 miles each way to upstate NY every weekend to Lebanon Valley, and I have no problems at all.

[Bomiz]

Well!, Apr says they get about 18hp at peak with their full exhaust. And an intake will just make it better for the air flow.

http://www.goapr.com/includes/img/products/dyno/30tfsi_long_b8_s4/30tfsi_long_b8_s4_exhaust_gain.gif