Top 5 First Mods For The Audi A3 (2015-2020)

[audi8v]

[audi8v]

Mine is a 2018 btw

[Chaoscreature]

https://store.034motorsport.com/hell...ering-kit.html

I agree with the springs, but I prefer my cars to be a bit more subtle. Tires would be #1 on my list.

You didn't mention your JB4 on this video, is that because you added it after filming this video?

[Jesse S.]

https://store.034motorsport.com/hell...ering-kit.html

I agree with the springs, but I prefer my cars to be a bit more subtle. Tires would be #1 on my list.

You didn't mention your JB4 on this video, is that because you added it after filming this video?

He did mention the JB4 as the number 1 mod.

[TreizeRXH]

He did mention the JB4 as the number 1 mod.

The JB4 should not be in any list

The average driver has no concept about anything they’re editing in the parameters and no clue about air/fuel mixtures, ignition timings, and other aspects of the ECU that most people end just setting a profile that increases power at the expense of EVERYTHING ELSE, only to then blow their engines. Have seen it happen time and time again.

If anything, a JB4 should only be installed by someone who is SUPER EXPERIENCED with mapping engines. Half the maps available for download will ruin your motor after just a year or two.


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[TheDude420]

The JB4 should not be in any list

The average driver has no concept about anything they’re editing in the parameters and no clue about air/fuel mixtures, ignition timings, and other aspects of the ECU that most people end just setting a profile that increases power at the expense of EVERYTHING ELSE, only to then blow their engines. Have seen it happen time and time again.

If anything, a JB4 should only be installed by someone who is SUPER EXPERIENCED with mapping engines. Half the maps available for download will ruin your motor after just a year or two.


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Yikes! People should go with a well-known tune from companies with a proven track record such as APR, Unitronic, Integrated Engineering, etc. To be honest I don't know much about JB4 but the other tunes I mentioned have years worth of research from professionals. You don't have to make any changes to software yourself everything is done for you. I assume JB4 is lower priced?

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[SirChuckNorris]

Yikes! People should go with a well-known tune from companies with a proven track record such as APR, Unitronic, Integrated Engineering, etc. To be honest I don't know much about JB4 but the other tunes I mentioned have years worth of research from professionals. You don't have to make any changes to software yourself everything is done for you. I assume JB4 is lower priced?

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Yeah a JB4 is like a halfway tune. The way it goes about getting there is very different though. A JB4 basically intercepts and fakes the numbers to make your car think it isn't pushing hard enough. For example boost pressure may actually be 10psi the JB4 intercepts the 10psi changes it to 8psi, so your car pushes to 12psi. So instead of changing the target boost in the ECU programming it just reports lower numbers causing your car to push harder to get to target boost.

It's generally considered less safe, but they are cheap and can be very easily uninstalled for emissions or to sell or trade. It also won't void your warranty, so you'll still see quite a few people use them and many don't have any issues.

Edit: I'll also add that a few even stack a tune and JB1 or JB4 (not recommended).

[Chaoscreature]

He did mention the JB4 as the number 1 mod.

Oh jeez, that's embarrassing. Full disclosure I didn't watch the whole thing, just kinda scrubbed through it. I thought he ended with the exhaust...

There seem to be a lot of very happy JB4 owners out there. I don't think it's always a matter of being "cheap." For those with a lot of time left on their warranties, the thought of having it voided because of a tune can be scary. The JB4 seems to be the best of the "plug in" tuners, at least from what I have read here.

[Brandon.august]

The JB4 should not be in any list

The average driver has no concept about anything they’re editing in the parameters and no clue about air/fuel mixtures, ignition timings, and other aspects of the ECU that most people end just setting a profile that increases power at the expense of EVERYTHING ELSE, only to then blow their engines. Have seen it happen time and time again.

If anything, a JB4 should only be installed by someone who is SUPER EXPERIENCED with mapping engines. Half the maps available for download will ruin your motor after just a year or two.


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Then the average driver shouldn't be modifying maps. They should just use the OTS maps, which are labeled for appropriate use. For example, don't use map 3 or 4 if you're running 91 fuel. If you're going to use a custom map, consult their customer support to increase power but NOT at the expense of everything else. The device also uses the OEM failsafes, e.g. boost safety. Of course you can increase that number to obtain more power, and subsequently increase the risk.

Do you have data to backup that last claim? Anecdotally, I've heard of many more APR-tuned motors blowing relative to JB4. To my knowledge, the only cases of A3/S3 motors that have blown using JB4 were stacked with another tune. In fact, those were turbos and at worst cats that were destroyed, no structural damage to the motor itself.

When I google search "JB4 ruined motor" or "JB4 blown motor," I'm seeing a handful of BMW-related posts. Light skimming through them suggests most of them were stacked as well. Even one case where the JB4 was being used to LOG the failure that happened as soon as this guy went stage 2. A couple posts with no stack but common failure points failed. I just don't see the data suggesting the JB4 is dangerous, especially compared to a true ECU tune. I will say that it's much more risky in the sense that user error comes into play. You could easily plug in the wrong boost values and cause damage. But, again, that's talking about customization, not using the "tried-and-true" OTS maps.

[TreizeRXH]

Then the average driver shouldn't be modifying maps. They should just use the OTS maps, which are labeled for appropriate use. For example, don't use map 3 or 4 if you're running 91 fuel. If you're going to use a custom map, consult their customer support to increase power but NOT at the expense of everything else. The device also uses the OEM failsafes, e.g. boost safety. Of course you can increase that number to obtain more power, and subsequently increase the risk.

Do you have data to backup that last claim? Anecdotally, I've heard of many more APR-tuned motors blowing relative to JB4. To my knowledge, the only cases of A3/S3 motors that have blown using JB4 were stacked with another tune. In fact, those were turbos and at worst cats that were destroyed, no structural damage to the motor itself.

When I google search "JB4 ruined motor" or "JB4 blown motor," I'm seeing a handful of BMW-related posts. Light skimming through them suggests most of them were stacked as well. Even one case where the JB4 was being used to LOG the failure that happened as soon as this guy went stage 2. A couple posts with no stack but common failure points failed. I just don't see the data suggesting the JB4 is dangerous, especially compared to a true ECU tune. I will say that it's much more risky in the sense that user error comes into play. You could easily plug in the wrong boost values and cause damage. But, again, that's talking about customization, not using the "tried-and-true" OTS maps.

I never said the JB4 in itself is dangerous. But a person without inherent understanding of how the variables all interact with one another that just tweaks them at will could cause irreparable damage to an engine. I’m not purporting to have anecdotal evidence to support examples, but rather explaining a general fact to the risks that are undertaken to this type of piggy back system from an inexperienced user.

Now that having been said, in my local VW/Audi enthusiasts groups, more than a few members running JB4’s have blown their motors. Was it the absolute root cause? I don’t know, but it was a common element. And yes, I am also aware that APR Tunes have also been cited as the cause of engine failures for people. It simply goes to show that if a tuning company can’t get it right, the likelihood of the average driver with zero experience getting it right is even slimmer


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[Brandon.august]

Yikes! People should go with a well-known tune from companies with a proven track record such as APR, Unitronic, Integrated Engineering, etc. To be honest I don't know much about JB4 but the other tunes I mentioned have years worth of research from professionals. You don't have to make any changes to software yourself everything is done for you. I assume JB4 is lower priced?

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"Proven track record" is an interesting choice here. Look at the number of recent posts claiming blown motors/turbos using APR tunes.

JB4 has been around since 2007, I believe. Years and years of research from a group of professionals that took a different route. You don't have to make any changes to software, everything is done for you, and yes, it's cheaper. AND, if you're so inclined, you CAN make changes to the software. They will help you with data-logging and making tweaks to the tune, keeping safety in mind. I've had tons of back and forth with George, helping me obtain more power than OTS maps, while maintaining timing, AFR ratios, considering IATs (my climate), my specific transmission, boost by gear/rpm to prevent wheel spin, failsafes, etc.

It's also worth noting that the OTS/unable-to-modify tuning is pretty abnormal in the tuning world. Most people that come to VAG are surprised that everyone receives the same canned tune, and there's no customization. On other platforms, using something like COBB AP, you can actually go in and make modifications, if you want. Apparently, the ECU in Audi is more sophisticated and therefore difficult to allow customization at that level. I would love to switch to COBB, but while I have my warranty, I'm sticking to JB4.

Side note: the supervisor I work with at the local Audi dealer, who has no issue with tunes, modifications, etc., adds a downpipe and JB4 to every car he leases. Currently in a RS5. Keeps them for a couple years and swaps them out. Did the same thing in BMW with M3 & M5s. He said he has no issue with me tuning the car, but if they happen to plug into motherland and see it, it'll be flagged. Suggested that JB4 would be the way to go until I have no warranty or don't care about it. Just some food for thought.

[Brandon.august]

I never said the JB4 in itself is dangerous. But a person without inherent understanding of how the variables all interact with one another that just tweaks them at will could cause irreparable damage to an engine. I’m not purporting to have anecdotal evidence to support examples, but rather explaining a general fact to the risks that are undertaken to this type of piggy back system from an inexperienced user.

Now that having been said, in my local VW/Audi enthusiasts groups, more than a few members running JB4’s have blown their motors. Was it the absolute root cause? I don’t know, but it was a common element. And yes, I am also aware that APR Tunes have also been cited as the cause of engine failures for people. It simply goes to show that if a tuning company can’t get it right, the likelihood of the average driver with zero experience getting it right is even slimmer


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I agree with you. But that's my point - the JB4 offers OTS maps just like a normal tuning company, and provide "requirements" and/or "hardware" that you should have upon modification or map switching. If you don't order the connection kit, you can't even modify the device (shipped with a very modest increase in boost/power).
On a similar note, I could run APR Stage 2 with no downpipe or intercooler, but most people would say that's irresponsible. Seems like inexperienced users do things like this frequently.

Thanks for the information and discourse. I'd be interested to see logs and know more about those cars.

[TheDude420]

Yeah a JB4 is like a halfway tune. The way it goes about getting there is very different though. A JB4 basically intercepts and fakes the numbers to make your car think it isn't pushing hard enough. For example boost pressure may actually be 10psi the JB4 intercepts the 10psi changes it to 8psi, so your car pushes to 12psi. So instead of changing the target boost in the ECU programming it just reports lower numbers causing your car to push harder to get to target boost.

It's generally considered less safe, but they are cheap and can be very easily uninstalled for emissions or to sell or trade. It also won't void your warranty, so you'll still see quite a few people use them and many don't have any issues.

Edit: I'll also add that a few even stack a tune and JB1 or JB4 (not recommended).

That's an interesting way to tune!

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[TreizeRXH]

Yeah a JB4 is like a halfway tune. The way it goes about getting there is very different though. A JB4 basically intercepts and fakes the numbers to make your car think it isn't pushing hard enough. For example boost pressure may actually be 10psi the JB4 intercepts the 10psi changes it to 8psi, so your car pushes to 12psi. So instead of changing the target boost in the ECU programming it just reports lower numbers causing your car to push harder to get to target boost.

It's generally considered less safe, but they are cheap and can be very easily uninstalled for emissions or to sell or trade. It also won't void your warranty, so you'll still see quite a few people use them and many don't have any issues.

Edit: I'll also add that a few even stack a tune and JB1 or JB4 (not recommended).

Just realized your name is Chuck Norris. You win the Internet this day


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[TheDude420]

"Proven track record" is an interesting choice here. Look at the number of recent posts claiming blown motors/turbos using APR tunes.

JB4 has been around since 2007, I believe. Years and years of research from a group of professionals that took a different route. You don't have to make any changes to software, everything is done for you, and yes, it's cheaper. AND, if you're so inclined, you CAN make changes to the software. They will help you with data-logging and making tweaks to the tune, keeping safety in mind. I've had tons of back and forth with George, helping me obtain more power than OTS maps, while maintaining timing, AFR ratios, considering IATs (my climate), my specific transmission, boost by gear/rpm to prevent wheel spin, failsafes, etc.

It's also worth noting that the OTS/unable-to-modify tuning is pretty abnormal in the tuning world. Most people that come to VAG are surprised that everyone receives the same canned tune, and there's no customization. On other platforms, using something like COBB AP, you can actually go in and make modifications, if you want. Apparently, the ECU in Audi is more sophisticated and therefore difficult to allow customization at that level. I would love to switch to COBB, but while I have my warranty, I'm sticking to JB4.

Side note: the supervisor I work with at the local Audi dealer, who has no issue with tunes, modifications, etc., adds a downpipe and JB4 to every car he leases. Currently in a RS5. Keeps them for a couple years and swaps them out. Did the same thing in BMW with M3 & M5s. He said he has no issue with me tuning the car, but if they happen to plug into motherland and see it, it'll be flagged. Suggested that JB4 would be the way to go until I have no warranty or don't care about it. Just some food for thought.

Yes APR and other tuning companies have been around for years and they have a proven track record. Blown engines and issues are not unheard of but that's always a risk when tuning or modifying a car. Most people don't have those issues. This JB tune sounds interesting as it was explained above that it 'tricks' the car into pushing harder. Do people add a downpipe and larger intake with JB? If you're pushing your car to produce more power some of the stock parts were not designed to handle that. If this JB tune is good for not voiding you're warranty would adding downpipe or intake void it or is it up to the dealership?

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[SirChuckNorris]

That's an interesting way to tune!

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Yeah you essentially get to the same place in some areas. More boost from the turbo, advanced timing etc. Your car just doesn't know it's doing it.

[Brandon.august]

Yes APR and other tuning companies have been around for years and they have a proven track record. Blown engines and issues are not unheard of but that's always a risk when tuning or modifying a car. Most people don't have those issues. This JB tune sounds interesting as it was explained above that it 'tricks' the car into pushing harder. Do people add a downpipe and larger intake with JB? If you're pushing your car to produce more power some of the stock parts were not designed to handle that. If this JB tune is good for not voiding you're warranty would adding downpipe or intake void it or is it up to the dealership?

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That’s my entire point. You’re suggesting that those companies are safer because they have been around for years and have proven track records, as if the JB4 does not. Also remember that the 8V is a fairly new platform. Now a company like COBB, that recently introduced their S3 tune, I would be hesitant, despite many years of tuning experience on other platforms.

You can, yes. The stock intake is more than capable of handling modest increases in power, but a drop-in filter/OEM+ style intake is recommended when using the stronger JB4 maps. You can also add a downpipe, intercooler, etc.

As for warranty, that’s up to the dealer. My service advisor just asked that I let him know how I modified the car so he isn’t in for any surprises. If items are on the car that compromise warranty, he suggested to remove them prior to bringing the car in for major services as they require plugging in and uploading data for the service tech to get paid. This apparently includes the 25k Audi Care service interval. The JB4 is good for warranty because the device itself is “undetectable” so you can’t be flagged for a tune. Now the presence of the device itself can be enough for a flag, depending on your dealer.

[TheDude420]

That’s my entire point. You’re suggesting that those companies are safer because they have been around for years and have proven track records, as if the JB4 does not. Also remember that the 8V is a fairly new platform. Now a company like COBB, that recently introduced their S3 tune, I would be hesitant, despite many years of tuning experience on other platforms.

You can, yes. The stock intake is more than capable of handling modest increases in power, but a drop-in filter/OEM+ style intake is recommended when using the stronger JB4 maps. You can also add a downpipe, intercooler, etc.

As for warranty, that’s up to the dealer. My service advisor just asked that I let him know how I modified the car so he isn’t in for any surprises. If items are on the car that compromise warranty, he suggested to remove them prior to bringing the car in for major services as they require plugging in and uploading data for the service tech to get paid. This apparently includes the 25k Audi Care service interval. The JB4 is good for warranty because the device itself is “undetectable” so you can’t be flagged for a tune. Now the presence of the device itself can be enough for a flag, depending on your dealer.

Thanks for the info! Very cool. I'll look into the rest myself.

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[Brandon.august]

Thanks for the info! Very cool. I'll look into the rest myself.

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You got it man! I really like the device, although sometimes I wish I had a true tune for that extra 50+ hp haha. I’m going to add an intercooler here shortly, and a downpipe down the line potentially. I’m seeing IATs of 120+ at ambient 80-90F so clearly the IC is struggling to keep up (likely a combination of Texas heat and extra power from the JB4).

[cjacS3]

Be careful thinking a JB4 won't void your warranty. All data parameters are logged, as mentioned previously JB4 intercepts signals tricks the ECU into adding boost over factory levels. If Audi wants to dig they
can see from the logs "something" has raised boost/engine parameters over factory defined levels. Is JB4 easier to hide than full CPU tune, probably, but if the dealer wants to find it they will.

[audi8v]

Be careful thinking a JB4 won't void your warranty. All data parameters are logged, as mentioned previously JB4 intercepts signals tricks the ECU into adding boost over factory levels. If Audi wants to dig they
can see from the logs "something" has raised boost/engine parameters over factory defined levels. Is JB4 easier to hide than full CPU tune, probably, but if the dealer wants to find it they will.

Thankfully, I have a cool service department at my local dealer that hasn't minded the JB4 previously as long as I removed it before bringing it in

[texasboy21]

Yeah you essentially get to the same place in some areas. More boost from the turbo, advanced timing etc. Your car just doesn't know it's doing it.

The car will certainly know what its doing. The stock ECU sees 'stock' values, keeps all of the safety measures in check, and protects itself from damage.

[audi8v]

That’s my entire point. You’re suggesting that those companies are safer because they have been around for years and have proven track records, as if the JB4 does not. Also remember that the 8V is a fairly new platform. Now a company like COBB, that recently introduced their S3 tune, I would be hesitant, despite many years of tuning experience on other platforms.

You can, yes. The stock intake is more than capable of handling modest increases in power, but a drop-in filter/OEM+ style intake is recommended when using the stronger JB4 maps. You can also add a downpipe, intercooler, etc.

As for warranty, that’s up to the dealer. My service advisor just asked that I let him know how I modified the car so he isn’t in for any surprises. If items are on the car that compromise warranty, he suggested to remove them prior to bringing the car in for major services as they require plugging in and uploading data for the service tech to get paid. This apparently includes the 25k Audi Care service interval. The JB4 is good for warranty because the device itself is “undetectable” so you can’t be flagged for a tune. Now the presence of the device itself can be enough for a flag, depending on your dealer.

Yeah i'd definitely say an intake is important over the stock plastic one

[SirChuckNorris]

The car will certainly know what its doing. The stock ECU sees 'stock' values, keeps all of the safety measures in check, and protects itself from damage.

If the ECU is seeing values modified to appear "stock" then wouldn't that mean the ecu is unaware it is achieving 2psi more than normal, so as far as the ECU knows its working harder for no reason to get to normal? I'm sure the engines safety protocols are obviously left intact so it'll protect itself from anything too terrible.

[BecksA3]

Yeah i'd definitely say an intake is important over the stock plastic one

I would have to respectfully disagree with that statement.

Not trying to trash anyone’s products, but if you look at the aftermarket intake from 034, it is essentially a new top for the OEM air box, with a tube, coupler, and filter for around $400. I did basically the same thing with a used TIP and new silicone hose to the OEM air box for less than half that amount. And, there’s another thread on here where someone actually flow tested a few different AM intakes, and most of them only marginally flow better than what I’m running.

I guess it makes sense if you’re racing and chasing every bit of power available, but beyond that, the juice probably isn’t worth the squeeze.


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[Chaoscreature]

http://mygolfmk7.com/2019/09/ultimat...ti-air-intake/
http://mygolfmk7.com/best-mk7-gti-air-intake/

I removed the snow screen and performed the "intake modification" by cutting some plastic out of the front of the intake. 97% of the benefits for 0% of the cost.

[BecksA3]

http://mygolfmk7.com/2019/09/ultimat...ti-air-intake/
http://mygolfmk7.com/best-mk7-gti-air-intake/

I removed the snow screen and performed the "intake modification" by cutting some plastic out of the front of the intake. 97% of the benefits for 0% of the cost.

I did that as well. It’s an easy, inexpensive mod that makes a noticeable difference.


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[audi8v]

I did that as well. It’s an easy, inexpensive mod that makes a noticeable difference.


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Hmm i haven't heard of this

[BecksA3]

Hmm i haven't heard of this

The stock air duct runs the width of the engine compartment to the air box, but the duct is only open on the passenger side. The common mod is to cut an opening on the driver’s side in front of the air box.

Even then, that opening is behind and slightly above the snow shield. If you look in your grill, you’ll see the very top row is closed off. The next mod is to make an opening in the shield in front of the new duct opening.

Mine looks like this.

IMG_2206.JPG


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[audi8v]

The stock air duct runs the width of the engine compartment to the air box, but the duct is only open on the passenger side. The common mod is to cut an opening on the driver’s side in front of the air box.

Even then, that opening is behind and slightly above the snow shield. If you look in your grill, you’ll see the very top row is closed off. The next mod is to make an opening in the shield in front of the new duct opening.

Mine looks like this.

IMG_2206.JPG


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Any videos on how to do it?

[BecksA3]

Any videos on how to do it?

I found this on YouTube. I didn’t have to pull the entire air box out to get the duct out though.


https://youtu.be/U7C0zHx2iWM


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[audi8v]

I found this on YouTube. I didn’t have to pull the entire air box out to get the duct out though.


https://youtu.be/U7C0zHx2iWM


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Thanks