Audis are some of the most rewarding cars to tune, and we see plenty of them at our Hertfordshire workshop, from everyday A4 TDIs to S3s and RS models. This guide covers typical Stage 1 gains across the range, S tronic gearbox tuning, and what to expect on the day.
What does an Audi remap do?
An Audi remap adjusts the software in the engine's ECU: boost, fuelling, ignition timing and torque limits. Audi sets these conservatively so one calibration suits every market and fuel. Stage 1 is software only, on a standard car.
Mac Tuning has developed its own software for most vehicles over years of testing and research, and every tune is custom-tweaked for the specific car in front of us. Read our guide to a Stage 1 remap in Hertfordshire for the full background.
Audi A3 and S3 remap
The A3 and S3 share most of their hardware with the VW Golf, including the EA888 2.0 TFSI petrol engine.
Typical Stage 1 gains (typical, varies by car):
A3 40 TFSI (around 190bhp, 320Nm): around 240–260bhp and 400–430Nm
S3 8V (around 300bhp) and 8Y (around 306bhp): around 360–370bhp and 480–500Nm
A3 2.0 TDI 150: around 185–195bhp and 410–430Nm
Petrol figures at the top of these ranges assume 99 RON fuel, such as Shell V-Power or Tesco Momentum 99, which we recommend on every tuned petrol car.
Audi A4 and A5 TDI remap
The 2.0 TDI in the A4, A5 and Q5 is a very common Audi remap, and the extra torque transforms motorway driving and towing.
Typical Stage 1 gains (typical, varies by car):
2.0 TDI 150 (around 320Nm): around 185–195bhp and 410–430Nm
2.0 TDI 190: around 215–225bhp and 430–450Nm
Audi RS remap
RS models respond very strongly to a remap.
RS3 2.5 TFSI (400bhp, 2017 on): typically around 470bhp and 620Nm at Stage 1 (typical, varies by car)
RS6 C7 4.0 TFSI: an RS6 we tuned went from 560bhp and 700Nm to 670bhp and 900Nm with a Stage 1 remap
On RS models we'll talk you through the figures for your exact car before booking, as outputs vary across generations and Performance versions.
Check the figures for your Audi
Outputs vary by model, year and variant, and the condition of the car and the fuel it runs on play a part. Enter your registration on our power gains check for the expected figures on your Audi.
S tronic gearbox tuning
Many Audis have an S tronic (DSG) or tiptronic gearbox. The standard gearbox software limits torque, so after a remap it can hold the engine back. Gearbox tuning raises those limits and sharpens shifts, and it's done in the same visit.
Going further: Stage 2
The S3 and A3 TFSI in particular respond well to Stage 2, with an uprated intercooler, intake and downpipe and a map written for those parts. Read about Stage 2 tuning and the parts you need.
Is an Audi remap safe?
On a healthy, well-maintained engine, yes. Problems after a remap usually come down to an underlying engine fault that was already there, poor maintenance, or a sensitive engine that needs the power dialling back slightly. We check every car over before tuning, and we'll tell you if anything needs sorting first.
Keep up with servicing, let the engine warm up before using full power, and use good fuel. See our ECU remap myths post for common worries, and the benefits of ECU remapping for what you gain.
What to expect on the day
1. Pre-tune checks on the car.
2. Read and save your original software, so the tune can always be reversed.
3. Write your custom calibration.
4. Check that everything is running as it should.
A Stage 1 remap takes 60–90 minutes, though some newer Audi ECUs take longer to read. If your tune is ever wiped, for example by a dealer software update, our software warranty covers reinstalling it. Remember to tell your insurer, as a remap is a modification.
Audi remapping in Hertfordshire
We're based in Ardeley, Hertfordshire, near Stevenage, Hitchin, Letchworth, Hertford, Welwyn and St Albans, and we see Audis from all over the UK. We've tuned over 5,000 cars and have over 300 five-star reviews on our reviews page. You can spread the cost with Klarna or Clearpay. See all our performance tuning options.
Audi remap FAQs
How much power does an S3 remap add?
An 8V or 8Y S3 typically goes to around 360–370bhp and 480–500Nm at Stage 1. It varies by car and fuel.
Is an A4 2.0 TDI worth remapping?
Yes. The extra torque makes the biggest day-to-day difference, especially on the motorway or when towing.
Should I tune the S tronic gearbox?
On most cars, yes. The standard software limits torque, so tuning it lets the car use the extra power properly.
How long does an Audi remap take?
60–90 minutes for Stage 1 in most cases. Allow a little longer for gearbox tuning or newer ECUs.
Can an Audi remap be reversed?
Yes, always. We save your original software before writing anything.
Book your Audi remap
Send us your registration and tell us what you want from the car. Book online or get in touch.
