I have been reading with interest the benefits of the APR ECU chip for the 2.7T. I have the 04 A6 S-line which is 265 hp stock. I am confused about the differences between the APR ECUand a "Tip Chip". APR does not offer a seperate chip for the transmission; apparently the APR program also adjusts the shifting programs.Is the Tip-chip unique to the other chip makers (GIAC)?

I don't plan on doing any serious mods, but realistically how much additional risk of turbofailure is there with the APR chip, and will it void my 100K mile AoA CPO extended warranty?

 

The APR chip is for the ECU only (Engine), they do not offer a chip for the TCU (Transmission). The GIAC chip is the only chip offered forthe TCU. this adjusts shift speed and adds a more aggressive shift program. As far as the reliability.... I have only had my chip for about a year, and have had no problems. It all comes down to how hard you drive the car.

 

Thanks. Looks like youhave the APR chip with the stock tranny chip. Correct?

Also, I have read in the archives that a "bi-pipe" upgrade can help. I would love to understand
the principles behind how this helps the situationof ECU chipping an automatic. Anyone?

 

The apr bi-pipe has nothing to do with helping prevent damage to your transmission. I is a replacement part for your throttle body boot (TBB)and the plastic piping that goes to the TBB. The stock TBB is made of rubber and isprone toripping under the added boostthat a chippedecu makes.The bi-pipeupgrade simply replaces these parts to prevent the possibility of failure. Failure to these partscan cause damage to the turbos if not found and replaced quickly after damagehasoccured. Another commonupgrade for chipped cars are the diverter valves (either upgrade to the 710N from the TT or to something like the Stratmosphere valve.)

Turbo failure can happen with or without have a chip install. If you follow the guidelines for turbo operation, such as letting the engine oil properly warm before getting into the boost, then your turbos should last a while.

The tip chip is not going to prevent transmission damage that may be caused by chipping the engine. It is only advertised as giving quicker and smoother shifts. It can't up the torque rating of a transmission. That is done with mechinical components not tweaking the electrical components.

 

WaggsA6 gets the "best nOOb post of the month" award. Only 5 posts and he's already proving SOLID, helpful info.

Kudos.

 

You guys are funny!

As stated the ECu & TCU are totally different. Think of upgraded your desktop computer, does it do anything to your laptop?

I have both the GIAC ECU & TCU chips. The TCU chip helps with faster shifts, & will stop gear hunting from having more HP & torque.
If you drive hard to redline, you should get the TCU chip, it has a increased redline in it. If you bang off the increased rev limiter the unchipped TCU will think it has overreved & go into limp mode.
It makes the car feel more sporty.

The Bi-pipe is just a cure all for torn TBB's. Here is a pic of mine (big Y silver thing), I ceramic coated it when I did my TB job.

 

Now THAT is a 2.7T worth talking about! Samco hoses, upgraded diverter valves, and the bi-pipe. Those are the kind of mods that can insulate you from the added stresses a chip will put on the engine. Nice work.

If only you didn't have the dreaded F-hose... (one of the reasons I'm reluctant to chip)

 

Thanks!
No F hose. TIPs don't have the stink'en F hose!

 

Huh? I thought ALL pre-2001.5 2.7Ts had the F-hose (and turbos with the smaller oil lines). Is this not the case?

 

Pretty sure I have the oil lines, but no F hose. S4 TIPs never had the F hose.