Warranty up soon, I want an ECU flash... APR? valve diverter?

[Jaydog0910]

Hi Guys,

My warranty on my 2010 a4 is ending this month and I want to get my ECU flashed. I don't have very much knowledge about cars or tuning, but I have been trying to read lots on the subject because I would like the added performance. Hopefully it will make it feel like a new car so I won't want a new one anytime soon.

I am leaning towards APR stage 1, the one that I can change the program on since I can't always get 93 octane but i would likely drive on the 93 octane when possible. From what I have read, APR seems to be a good balance between performance and being safe (not wrecking your engine). The numbers on their latest software look very good (+74TQ, +66HP). That seems like a lot more power.

The most important thing to me is that I don't want to damage my car, and I don't want to get into a lot of hardware changes. I am aware that it will shorten the life of my turbo though.

I have read that some people recommend upgrading the valve diverter if you are doing a stage 1 flash, although APR says that you don't need to change any hardware for stage 1. Will this add performance? Extent the life of my turbo?

What do you guys think, does APR seem like a good choice? Should I change my diverter valve when I flash it?

Thanks a lot for your help!! Oh ya, if you by chance have a 2010 with a APR stage 1, I would love to hear how you like it/how much of a change it is?

[blbroo]

I'm running stage 2 GIAC and on the stock DV with no issues. Many people here are happy with their APR stage 1 tunes, and the other tuners will be about the same. The usual guidance is talk to the shops around you that offer tunes and go with the one that makes you the most comfortable. Or, shop them by cost, including any switching tools that may be needed.

[AllroadCorbin]

it wont shorten the life of your turbo... more likely to shorten the life of parts of your drivetrain that have to handle the excess torque long before your turbo goes.... transmission, engine mounts, differentials