My Golf R flew up a Gulch during a rough snow storm here in CO. People where parking their cars downhill and walking up to their homes whilst I was drifting home, upwards into the cosmos...amazing little car!
Love you info! questions: 2017.5 GTI sport. Arizona. 1. What size is factory RSB? Whats a great size to upgrade to? 2. Are intakes worth it or needed for stage 1? 3. IE tune. ( or other) Im not savvy or confident to self tune. Which type of shop could handle it? THANKS so much !
@@scotts6702 1) Not sure 2) From my understanding, it's not necessary 3) I know some tuning companies like apr have locations where they'll do it for you but you could also give your local shop a call :)
Dig your Golf R. So addressing your warranty part ~4:00 we have a '15 Audi S3 with APR Stage 1 low torque ECU tune currently. It previously had a Stage 2 high torque tune and DSG tune (also APR) with downpipe from previous owner and it had to goto Audi for service for something unrelated. They voided our warranty for powertrain altogether. So regardless of which dealer we went Audi of America did not do us a solid. And we had flashed it back to stock before bringing it in. We ended up having to replace our turbo and clutch pack (or something like that) out of pocket and it was about $7k.
I’d also recommend the racing line r600 cold air intake as it looks stock and has a great sound, as well as the silicone air intake tube and inlet elbow. Definitely notice the performance difference. Aluminium shifters. Definitely APR stage 1 ECU and DSG tunes.
I have Stage 1 APR tuning on my 2016 R, as I did on my 2012 model, and the GTI that preceded it. Worth every penny. The big difference is that my latest ECM chip was installed by the dealer, and had no effect on warranty. So I don’t need a “stock” setting to use when I take it to the dealer. It stays on all the time. My only regret is that I chose the DSG transmission (also upgraded). It’s butter-smooth on upshifts, but lags on downshifts, and is not quite as fun as the manual. Though the paddle shifters help.
HumbleMechanic Oof, I just looked over the Atlas parts for that system. The toughest and most expensive part I didn’t think about is the locking/closing motor that sucks the hatch in. I assume the interior trim might be shaped differently there too.
Brilliant video Charles! I think we have a very similar modding style - I like to call it "OEM+". I just bought a 2019 R with 22k miles on it and this video was very helpful. I've never seen or heard of this wrap you're using (expel?) I'll go check it out! Thanks for making the vid! Edit: Couldn't agree more on what you say about a rear sway bar from past experience on all my cars it's by far the #1 handling upgrade for any front/all wheel drive!
OK, Charles. You asked- I'm gonna toss a lawn dart here. Rear hitch. The VW euro/ factory hidden hitch is so.....factory/ OEM/ awesome EXCEPT for the fact that it is just a ball hitch which= towing-which is epic in its own right-but my angle is rear-mounted bike racks. The current champion is the EcoHitch by Torklift Central. But- for me- it comes oh-so-close to perfect, but falls short because you always see the receiver below the fascia. I feel the ultimate, slickest, truly-hidden solution in the US is the Stealth Hitch. Only problem is that they have not yet found a person to blaze the trail for the community and be the prototype vehicle. They are based in Atlanta, so how about you do a video on how you spend a few days with those fine folks and help create the catalog product for the rest of us!?! Btw, their website states that your participation yields a free install and free hitch. And both versions- the trailer-centric version with all the wiring installed and the 2" receiver version for accessories!
Hi Charles. Thanks for this list. I got my 2019 Golf R in November and finally got a few of these done. Just got my car back from local shop Cantrell Motorsports. They installed the 25mm anti-sway bar and the skid plate. I "installed" the spare tire kit a month ago or so. Car is pretty much sitting in the garage while we shelter in place (still). I hope to run my car in at least one nearby recreational HPDE this summer, so I had Stoptech SS brake lines installed (along with Motul and Ferodo performance pads). Personally, I think SS-sheathed Teflon lines are essential for any car headed for a track day. I'm hopeful that I can get out this summer, but I'm wary of any kind of public gathering -- social distancing rules notwithstanding. I'm a 7/10ths track day guy, so unless the stock power is completely inadequate, I think I'll avoid a tune for now. Thanks again. Very handy videos and guidance.
Just an idea, the 95B 4-piston, all-aluminum Brembo caliper used on the base Macan and Audi Q5 are direct fit for the stock calipers of the Golf R and Audi S3. Many people have done the retrofit but there is no detailed write-up or video on it yet. Both calipers can be had for about $500 retail making it a cheap upgrade while shaving off half the weight (from 18.8lbs to 9.4lbs). Would make for an awesome video.
I'm so excited for your remote start. I'm from Michigan and the bitter cold weather isn't good for the car or for me when I need to get out to work LOL
Please look into the Eurocode front strut brace.. i think you'll be just as surprised as i was on how much it helps things! That with a rear sway off the bat would be a great starter for autox!
It’s more expensive, in my opinion, to have a manual than DSG. A DSG tune will be like $600ish where as on a manual you’ll need to upgrade your clutch with just stage one.
Every modern VAG car needs a rear sway bar.. no brainer for all of them. fun fact, I used the same 034 RSB on my 08' GLI, 13' Bug turbo and 15' S3 (perfect on the gli and bug, still too soft for the S3 - swapped out for APR)
Awesome vid! I have a 15 R lapiz blue. Bought it used , bought new tires continental extreme contact. Next I'm going in for 60k service, 1+ tune and maybe a inlet and intake. Wouldn't mind if the exhaust was louder though. Love these vids keep em coming. You're my go to for golf r info . Thanks
Love your channel and how you take the time to walk us through what is going on. I watch quite a few other mechanic style channels, I find a lot is skipped over or not well explained with most channels. It goes from step a to step c and i am left wondering what happened between them. I feel like this is as close as it gets with having editing for time and what not to actually watching someone do it in person. Thx for sharing your in depth knowledge of the automotive industry with the rest of us!
Great video Charles, as always. I know you mention Alltrack in this video, but I have some heartburn when it comes to spotlighting IE (which I have on my CC!) because they have YET to release an ECU tune for the 1.8 TSi vehicles, which I still think is crazy...They're missing out on a huge part of the market, in my opinion. If they don't release it relatively soon, I may need to move to someone else for a tune on my wife's Alltrack.
I absolutely love your videos. I just got my first GTI. Your videos are awesome, informational, and so magically dangerous for me to watch. I've looked around a bunch without a ton of luck, what are your feelings on the JB4 vs a stage 1 tune? I'm overly paranoid about my sweet sweet warranty. I also had no idea about the oil pan, def going to get an alltrack pan and the rear sway bar.
Neuspeed may be cheap but it will cause issues and if you hammer it a few times you'll go into Limp mode. It's a common issue on the 2.0t and 1.8t gen3 cars. If your gonna go piggy back tune buy a jb4 module since you get more power, customizability and alot less issues and less lag.
@@IReahpZz Never have gone into limp mode on my gen3 1.8t with latest Neuspeed version that ends in ".15". The key is to not use the +7 mode and stay on the +5 mode with at least 91 octane fuel, preferably more. It also cost $200 used while a JB4 is hard to find for under $400 used with the BT connection. Now, if I had a 2.0 it would be different, but for the 1.8t you can't beat the Neuspeed used for so little!
I disagree that swaybars don't have any negative consequences. Try turning into the ramp of a gas station and you'll see what I mean. The stiffer bar picks up the inner rear wheel, and then you get a jolt when it makes contact again. Also notice the car's behavior in bumpy turns. It's not as resilient, and your head & neck get jerked around more often. This is because stiffer rear swaybars make the rear end less independent, and more like a solid axle. There's no way around that fact. You might like the flatter cornering, but there are consequences. I put a 22mm bar on a car that only had a 16mm stock, and it felt like a pickup truck afterwards. So I contacted a shop and had them custom make an 18mm bar instead. Much better.
I still wish I had a heated steering wheel... it is soooo awesome during winter here... I've tried it on a tiguan and it is a great option for cold weather region... I wonder why this is not available in golf models...
@@DigitalDissident who wants to drive with gloves on, maybe in a race car on the track. Maybe where you live it doesn't get that cold, but when temperature is in single digits fahrenheit, it's really nice to have heated steering wheel and seats.
It’s funny with the change you made to the reverse camera display. My Australian spec car does that as standard and it drives me mad. I’d love to stop that little display popping up!
Are there any particular rear sway bars you recommend beyond the H&R you opted for? And any particular reason you chose that one? I got my R almost exactly six months ago as well and would like to make that my first major modification of the car. By the way, I love all your videos. Your content is some of the most informative on the internet.
Tempestwrath I’m gonna throw my 2 cents in here man and say 034 dynamic+ springs, they only drop the car .4” in front and .8” in rear so they are function over form but, my car handles rediculously good. I also recommend 034 sway bar and endlinks. Add me on IG bro. Lil_danny904 and I’ll suggest some mods for you to consider. Thatdudeinblue just reviewed my car Sunday and told me that he couldn’t even make my car understeer lol either he can’t drive or the mods I just suggested really are that good, just holler at me man:)
So where I live, we've got a local VW tuning shop that supplies and installs parts like these. They told me that they recommend H&R because they're a generally great name brand, great product quality, and the bushings, (I believe), are made of a teflon/urethane composite that eliminate all squeaking noises and don't need lubrication. I'd personally highly recommend them!
@@HumbleMechanic hey do you still have r32? My wife's had one for about 12 years now and it's been great. Mk 5 3door in silver with bucket recaros. Reliable satisfying car it's been. Whatve we had to do....coil packs, all springs ( seem to be made to snap in winter). Radiator, tyres brakes battery and that's about it. Looks like we will have to sell as my job has gone, thanks mainly to virus. We will miss it . Must be one of our fav cars ever. Still got my r36 though! Enjoy your channel. Learned a lot thx
Additional cool features: - Welcome Home lighting (illuminates the lights around the car for a couple seconds after you step out of the car at night), - Automatically roll-up windows / shut sunroof when the car detects rain. Tilt the side mirror when going in reverse, reset DSG "learnt" prior driving pattern. - Automatically turn on / accelerate / reduce speed of your windshield wipers when rain is detected... - Remember the settings of your A/C unit / heated seat. - Display additional screens on the Computer between the dials (like battery charge, oil level, remaining gas in the gas tank.... So many many features ! MK7.x are really flexible, and if you've been around the world and liked a feature in a polo, passat, golf from another country, the chance is, you can activate that feature in your MK7 here in the US... if the car is equipped with the actual hardware supporting the feature. Now... reading some recent european reviews about the new generation of Golfs... I'm wondering how MK8 are gonna be like. Seems like VW will include most of the hardware in all cars... and you could pay for over-the-air upgrades/options activations, basically paid features (a bit like ODBeleven.... but by VW...). Hopefully we'll still be able to VCDS them and activate cool features ourselves ! But... hey VW engineers are clever...
I’m guessing they will try and lock out the features. They may have an alternating lock out code. So the only way to activate is by vw. But I’m sure someone will find a way
i personally LOVE the Euro Aspherical mirror lenses. It really makes the side mirrors more usable. I had it on my MK6 GTI and it was one of the first things i did to my new-to-me mk7.5 R
Getting my R on Friday. It comes with spare as standard in UK, kinda silly it doesn't come with one in US. Got OBDeleven on order already. Might get different wheels and keep stock ones with winter tyres on. Not touching stage one at least for now, I don't want to void the warranty, or declare it on my insurance...
Tune Warranty Advice: Call around to all of your local VW dealers to speak with the service manager. Ask them if their dealership is modification friendly, and/or if they’ll still honor the factory warranty with a tune. Pro Tip: Check APRs dealer list. Some VW dealers double as an APR dealer. I have found that these dealerships are often more inclined to honor your warranty with a tune. ✌🏼
veedubtuner agreed on the dynamic tails. Really classes up the rear of the GoRf. As far as the garage door opener, just get the homelink mirror. I paid $230 for mine, auto-dimming, homelink, compass AND it’s larger and much nicer looking anyway.
The remote start would be super cool! I just got a 2017 Golf R and I was thinking about getting a remote starter. I heard that a DBALL2 with a immobilizer bypass should work.
I found a really nice 2017 golf r that I want to pick up. I've just never owned a German car and with all the horror stories out there I'm nervous to make the plunge. I just want it to last.
Just do your research and make sure it's been serviced regularly with low km's. If it's near 100k on the clock then it will need a major service especially around the cambelt. Join a club and ask what the pro's and con's are
I have a 2014 GTI with 150k km on the clock. I have been taking it to the official dealership all this time but I am finding that the dealerships are actually quite bad at maintaining the vehicle for long life span. I am wanting to do some maintenance upgrades, to keep the car running smoothly. What else would you recommend? Rear main seal? catch can? cleaning intake vales? regular changing of DSG oil? Thanks for the great videos
@@HumbleMechanic Ah yes that is true, there are also memory modules for sale on a couple of sites, pretty easy install as it's a plug and play solution
HumbleMechanic www.active-sound.eu/en/start-stop-automatic-ssa/start-stop-automatic-memory-modul-ssam-modul There are also others that require you to splice in to the harness but this one seems to be pnp :)
Glad you made this video Charles. Since you arent going to sell me yours (despite constantly asking you), I'm going to getting one in the next 6 months.
Great video, helpful and inspiring! Have you ever regret not buying a manual Golf R instead of the DSG? Do you end up using the paddle shifters a lot or if you keep it most of the time on automatic mode? Could you talk a little bit about the this endless dilema between a manual vs DSG and what is your opinion on that? Thank's! Keep on the good work!
I drooled over the Imola Yellow R at my local dealer today. It's a Manual as well. If I had $50k to blow I'd of said sayonara to my Tiguan and drove it home. Lol
@RJ mi they are beyond silly on price. You can't hardly even get a decently equipped Tiguan for under $40k. Dieselgate really dropped resell value and jacked new price up. About the cheapest VW we have is a base model Golf and it's right about $23k. VW would do good if they gave us the Polo and TRoc to fill the gaps in the lineup price wise.
awesome stuff. i'm totally getting the rear swaybar upgrade as i do track it. speaking of took this car to Road America (big power track with long high speed straights and heavy braking areas) and I can confirm the stock brakes are excellent even for track use. very little brake fade and pedal feel stays strong!
Great video and i just got a MK7.5R and have watched a lot of your vids on the car :) Just wondering if you considered a front LCA upgrade (to increase caster and camber) or camber tops as the car seems to come with more neg camber in the rear than the fronts which i assume is the standard "safe" setup. I will definitely be getting a stage 1 ecu/dsg tune and rear swaybar upgrade but also want to dial in the alignment to get more front end grip. Cheers :)
Thanks for the great videos, very informative & well made. I'm thinking about getting a used 2004 VW Eurovan Camper. Are there particular trouble spots with the VR6 engine or upgrades you would recommend? Could a newer 2 liter I4 TSI engine replace an older warn out VR6? The Eurovan is still a nice platform for touring & some overlanding if you don't want a larger more expensive Sprinter van conversion. What would your dream Eurovan contain? Thanks again for your show, PK.
I have a 2020 GLI Autobahn and my dealer here in Southern California were very specific with me on warranty as I kindly asked them questions about it. He told me straight up that if you do a tune and come in for warranty claims, the first thing they do is scan the ecu and look for flashes to make sure it’s factory. Then it’s automatically posted to Volkswagen and they know that your car is no longer covered for drive train warranty. The “Okay’s” are the exhaust (better to put on factory exhaust if you are concerned before going) wheels, and aesthetics really. If you bag it or do springs/coil overs whatever suspension mods, it will void the suspension warranties. He specifically said upgrading brakes and rotors are totally fine as the warranty rarely will ever cover them anyways lol
@HumbleMechanic I subscribed just to see that video. I need a specific step by step on how to make my trunk 12V outlet feed power even when the ignition is not on. Please! 🙏🏻
Fyi... if you do this there is a 100mA parasitic draw constantly from the computer thinking something is still turned on and will drain your battery if not driven everyday.
This guy is really good.. Speaks rapidly and directly all while providing very helpful info. Question.. I thought APR’s latest tune disengages the engine Start/stop?? Have the other top tuners you mentioned not addressed this? One more reason to go APR in my opinion if not because I agree, it’s the most annoying feature. Thanks again for the great content. Happy 2018 Golf R owner here.
I drive a 2014 MK7 1.4TSI ACT which stock had 140HP. I chipped it to Stage 1+ so I should have around 190HP now. I still feel that this car can go quicker... Any tips? I want to chip my DSG too for extra torque...
10:25 I’d like the opposite in my Australian MK7.5 R. I find that the overlay obscures the reverse camera view. Can’t wait to see if you manage to fit that power lift gate. That’d be handy.
Great video as always, even though it's older I would like to see more about the mk6 platform/variant /sportswagen options that they do sell in Europe vs USA and of course how we can modify them on our USA vw
Change the outlets to 30 power nd keep your jump pack plugged into the outlet so when it kills your battery from charging you can use it to jump the car.........boom mind blown 😂...I hope Charles comments this if he sees it lol
Charles, great info, appreciated. In regard to small mods, I've done some of the "badgeskins" vinyl overlays. I've added vinyl to the brake calipers, the front and rear R badge and covered that stupid amber passenger air bag light. Why the heck do I need a light on to tell me the passenger side air bag isn't working when no one is in the seat? Makes no sense. My last small mod is a steering wheel cover. I found one precut for the R and it's a great addition. Makes the wheel much thicker and better to hold while driving... Best....
Rodney Wright But isn’t nice to know that it’s active when someone is actually in the seat 🤷🏽♂️. Sometimes my dog sits up there on short trips and nice to know he isn’t going to get blasted if we get into a fender bender.
I was just talking to someone on r/golf subreddit about how awesome your videos are. You’re amazing dude. Also if ya wanna show the best way to add windows up/down with the remote that be dope. I miss that on my jetta mkiv
Keep your warranty by getting a JB4 from Burger Motorsports. I installed this tune and it was night and day. If something fails, takes little time to uninstall and looks like factory.
OMG - Great overview. I traded my R32 for a 2018 M4 CP and still miss my little R32. Need to start following VW again - interested in what’s next for GTI and R beyond 2019 for the US.
This video is awesome! I’m two-weeks into ownership of a 2019 AllTrack SE DSG that replaced Wifey’s ‘13 Jetta SEL. Had just gone thru some of your ‘R’ videos the other day, so was super excited to see this hit my feed today... Anything you can offer to simplify/walk thru the VCDS mods would be SO appreciated. As would the remote start mod. There MUST be a way to make that happen. I’d also dig it if you could add some insight to adding OEM Adaptive Cruise and/or Top View camera capability. My AllTrack has the Driver’s Assistance Package - I would think that some sensor swaps & coding would provide the ability to access the other features. Thanks for all your videos! Your stuff is SO helpful.
I used the spare tire after i had a freak tire blow out on my 19 golf r where the entire tire wall on the inside of the tire tore. no way the fix a flat kit was going to work on it. in 20 minutes, I was back on the road.
Hello i´m in switzerland and i have a Vw sciroco 2.0 tsi i think it's tuned by sportec but how can i be sure? and were can i buy those end links for the rear bar????? they are beautiful
I did the intake temps in the intake video. I didn’t install the boost tap and check it that way. With the new shop construction I’ve misplaced the tap. Hahaha doh
Please make a video discussing EGR system delete. EGR reduces air intake, puts exhaust soot into ur engine, reduces fuel economy, & reduces the lifespan of internal components.
good stuff Charles :) If possible, can you please find out how to turn ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) off whilst keeping normal Cruise Control on? thank you :) Cheers, Don, Perth W.Australia
@@HumbleMechanic no problems at all mate, I totally understand.... ACC just gets on my nerves due to the people that drive here in Perth, they might be doing the speed limit, then next minute they slowly slow down by 10-15km/h (for no reason at all) and before I know it (without any notice from the car/ACC), I'm also doing 10-15km/h below the speed limit, for no reason at all..... I'd have no issues with it if everyone kept to the speed limit, but around here, they don't :( LOL
it's hard to resist modding an enthusiast car that is still under warranty
Lol tell me about it!
I told myself I was going to enjoy my GTI through the warranty period. That didn't last very long..
Yeah, we all do it and we all accept the risk. Just dont take it to the dealer. Find a qualified local mechanic that works on german stuff.
@@murgero1 I live in Germany so, that portion is covered 😂
@@AiR1DaN Brilliant. Tell them to make this Golf R available here in NA with a freaking moon roof. We can't get that option here!
The absolute BEST part of this video is the little hand waving from the backseat 8:52 into it.
My Golf R flew up a Gulch during a rough snow storm here in CO. People where parking their cars downhill and walking up to their homes whilst I was drifting home, upwards into the cosmos...amazing little car!
I need to save this video for later in the future
You can set up a playlist for "liked" videos and it will live there.
Love you info! questions:
2017.5 GTI sport. Arizona.
1. What size is factory RSB? Whats a great size to upgrade to?
2. Are intakes worth it or needed for stage 1?
3. IE tune. ( or other) Im not savvy or confident to self tune. Which type of shop could handle it?
THANKS so much !
@@scotts6702 1) Not sure 2) From my understanding, it's not necessary 3) I know some tuning companies like apr have locations where they'll do it for you but you could also give your local shop a call :)
Nico. I did just the same :.) This guy knows what he is talking about.
I just did~
Dig your Golf R. So addressing your warranty part ~4:00 we have a '15 Audi S3 with APR Stage 1 low torque ECU tune currently. It previously had a Stage 2 high torque tune and DSG tune (also APR) with downpipe from previous owner and it had to goto Audi for service for something unrelated. They voided our warranty for powertrain altogether. So regardless of which dealer we went Audi of America did not do us a solid. And we had flashed it back to stock before bringing it in. We ended up having to replace our turbo and clutch pack (or something like that) out of pocket and it was about $7k.
Excited for news on remote start!
what kind of news
Unless the ECM can detect (on a manual) whether the car is in gear or not, don't think that will be possible
I just bought a 2017 Golf R and holy f.. that thing moves. Never had anything quite like it, and of course I know I will eventually wanna tune it.
I HAVE A BLACK MK7.5 R AND IM SO GLAD I FOUND YOUR CHANNEL! GREAT VIDEOS! KEEP THEM COMING PLEASE!
Well this is interesting, I literally just bought a Golf R two days ago and here you are putting up a video specific to it 😮
I know this is late but if you haven’t done any exhaust mods yet, wether it be a down pipe or whatever, the resonator delete is totally worth it.
I’d also recommend the racing line r600 cold air intake as it looks stock and has a great sound, as well as the silicone air intake tube and inlet elbow. Definitely notice the performance difference.
Aluminium shifters.
Definitely APR stage 1 ECU and DSG tunes.
I want to get one, but scared to hydrolock cos of heavy rains.
I have Stage 1 APR tuning on my 2016 R, as I did on my 2012 model, and the GTI that preceded it. Worth every penny. The big difference is that my latest ECM chip was installed by the dealer, and had no effect on warranty. So I don’t need a “stock” setting to use when I take it to the dealer. It stays on all the time.
My only regret is that I chose the DSG transmission (also upgraded). It’s butter-smooth on upshifts, but lags on downshifts, and is not quite as fun as the manual. Though the paddle shifters help.
My first mod is always tires, makes such a huge difference for me
Excellent lighting in the garage for the video. Attention to detail. 👍
I like the fact you have an HD camera. I’ve done most of what you recommended. Rear sway bar is next.
Best part of this video was the end to hear that you’re going to explore remote start and POWER LIFT GATE!!
Yep. Lift gate looks like it’s going to be $$$$$$$ but we shall see
HumbleMechanic Oof, I just looked over the Atlas parts for that system. The toughest and most expensive part I didn’t think about is the locking/closing motor that sucks the hatch in. I assume the interior trim might be shaped differently there too.
Downpipe and tune or jb4 and tires are def the most important
vClue recommend a tyre please
if you still need a recommendation id say bridgestone potenza re003.. a
JB ECU upgrade works great and can be removed with no trace left... Rear sway bar really, really helps.
Brilliant video Charles! I think we have a very similar modding style - I like to call it "OEM+". I just bought a 2019 R with 22k miles on it and this video was very helpful. I've never seen or heard of this wrap you're using (expel?) I'll go check it out! Thanks for making the vid!
Edit: Couldn't agree more on what you say about a rear sway bar from past experience on all my cars it's by far the #1 handling upgrade for any front/all wheel drive!
Doing these modifications has been so much fun. What do you think we should modify next?
Charge pipes, catch can, rs3 coil packs with rs7 sparkplugs
Front sway and coilover suspension could be great for your golf R!
OK, Charles. You asked- I'm gonna toss a lawn dart here.
Rear hitch. The VW euro/ factory hidden hitch is so.....factory/ OEM/ awesome EXCEPT for the fact that it is just a ball hitch which= towing-which is epic in its own right-but my angle is rear-mounted bike racks. The current champion is the EcoHitch by Torklift Central. But- for me- it comes oh-so-close to perfect, but falls short because you always see the receiver below the fascia. I feel the ultimate, slickest, truly-hidden solution in the US is the Stealth Hitch. Only problem is that they have not yet found a person to blaze the trail for the community and be the prototype vehicle. They are based in Atlanta, so how about you do a video on how you spend a few days with those fine folks and help create the catalog product for the rest of us!?! Btw, their website states that your participation yields a free install and free hitch. And both versions- the trailer-centric version with all the wiring installed and the 2" receiver version for accessories!
Torque arm insert (BFI) was fantastic bang for buck on my '19 R
Dogbone
Hi Charles. Thanks for this list. I got my 2019 Golf R in November and finally got a few of these done. Just got my car back from local shop Cantrell Motorsports. They installed the 25mm anti-sway bar and the skid plate. I "installed" the spare tire kit a month ago or so. Car is pretty much sitting in the garage while we shelter in place (still). I hope to run my car in at least one nearby recreational HPDE this summer, so I had Stoptech SS brake lines installed (along with Motul and Ferodo performance pads). Personally, I think SS-sheathed Teflon lines are essential for any car headed for a track day. I'm hopeful that I can get out this summer, but I'm wary of any kind of public gathering -- social distancing rules notwithstanding. I'm a 7/10ths track day guy, so unless the stock power is completely inadequate, I think I'll avoid a tune for now. Thanks again. Very handy videos and guidance.
It was really easy to turn off start/stop with OBDeleven on my Audi S4. No issues since.
Just an idea, the 95B 4-piston, all-aluminum Brembo caliper used on the base Macan and Audi Q5 are direct fit for the stock calipers of the Golf R and Audi S3. Many people have done the retrofit but there is no detailed write-up or video on it yet. Both calipers can be had for about $500 retail making it a cheap upgrade while shaving off half the weight (from 18.8lbs to 9.4lbs). Would make for an awesome video.
I must add one: the RS3 brake air ducts, if you track the car. Makes a huge difference, very cheap and the Audi part fits right in!!
Start/stop: wedge a cardboard in the gap of the button. It will be always be pressed in and turn it stop/start off for you when the car restart.
When you do the Remote Start. Can you do a video and if it can’t be done maybe mention it in another video?
Also subscribed, wicked video mate 👍
I'm so excited for your remote start. I'm from Michigan and the bitter cold weather isn't good for the car or for me when I need to get out to work LOL
Please look into the Eurocode front strut brace.. i think you'll be just as surprised as i was on how much it helps things! That with a rear sway off the bat would be a great starter for autox!
Interesting, 2 of your 5 are on my list to do, Metal Pan and rear sway-bar and end links.
It’s more expensive, in my opinion, to have a manual than DSG. A DSG tune will be like $600ish where as on a manual you’ll need to upgrade your clutch with just stage one.
Exactly!!!
Every modern VAG car needs a rear sway bar.. no brainer for all of them. fun fact, I used the same 034 RSB on my 08' GLI, 13' Bug turbo and 15' S3 (perfect on the gli and bug, still too soft for the S3 - swapped out for APR)
i miss our Jetta 2.5. It was taken by Hurrican Harvey and was paid for. It was the coolest.
Awesome vid! I have a 15 R lapiz blue. Bought it used , bought new tires continental extreme contact. Next I'm going in for 60k service, 1+ tune and maybe a inlet and intake. Wouldn't mind if the exhaust was louder though. Love these vids keep em coming. You're my go to for golf r info . Thanks
Love your channel and how you take the time to walk us through what is going on. I watch quite a few other mechanic style channels, I find a lot is skipped over or not well explained with most channels. It goes from step a to step c and i am left wondering what happened between them. I feel like this is as close as it gets with having editing for time and what not to actually watching someone do it in person. Thx for sharing your in depth knowledge of the automotive industry with the rest of us!
Great video Charles, as always. I know you mention Alltrack in this video, but I have some heartburn when it comes to spotlighting IE (which I have on my CC!) because they have YET to release an ECU tune for the 1.8 TSi vehicles, which I still think is crazy...They're missing out on a huge part of the market, in my opinion. If they don't release it relatively soon, I may need to move to someone else for a tune on my wife's Alltrack.
I feel ya. They are behind on a few tunes. I’ll pass this comment along
Not got a golf i went for the cupra but definitely gonna be doing some of these
I absolutely love your videos. I just got my first GTI. Your videos are awesome, informational, and so magically dangerous for me to watch. I've looked around a bunch without a ton of luck, what are your feelings on the JB4 vs a stage 1 tune? I'm overly paranoid about my sweet sweet warranty. I also had no idea about the oil pan, def going to get an alltrack pan and the rear sway bar.
I have the Neuspeed Power Module on my 2019 GSW 4Motion and even that makes a difference. 200HP/252TQ makes the 1.8T fun to drive.
Neuspeed may be cheap but it will cause issues and if you hammer it a few times you'll go into Limp mode. It's a common issue on the 2.0t and 1.8t gen3 cars. If your gonna go piggy back tune buy a jb4 module since you get more power, customizability and alot less issues and less lag.
@@IReahpZz Never have gone into limp mode on my gen3 1.8t with latest Neuspeed version that ends in ".15". The key is to not use the +7 mode and stay on the +5 mode with at least 91 octane fuel, preferably more. It also cost $200 used while a JB4 is hard to find for under $400 used with the BT connection. Now, if I had a 2.0 it would be different, but for the 1.8t you can't beat the Neuspeed used for so little!
APR ECU tune reverses auto start / stop default to OFF, just fyi.
I disagree that swaybars don't have any negative consequences. Try turning into the ramp of a gas station and you'll see what I mean. The stiffer bar picks up the inner rear wheel, and then you get a jolt when it makes contact again. Also notice the car's behavior in bumpy turns. It's not as resilient, and your head & neck get jerked around more often. This is because stiffer rear swaybars make the rear end less independent, and more like a solid axle. There's no way around that fact. You might like the flatter cornering, but there are consequences. I put a 22mm bar on a car that only had a 16mm stock, and it felt like a pickup truck afterwards. So I contacted a shop and had them custom make an 18mm bar instead. Much better.
I still wish I had a heated steering wheel... it is soooo awesome during winter here... I've tried it on a tiguan and it is a great option for cold weather region... I wonder why this is not available in golf models...
Agreed - This car should have came with heated steering wheel and cooled seats.
was just thinking this today as well
Heated steering wheel, heated and cooled seats are a must for me now. After having them, I can't go back.
Leave soft gloves in your car during cold season or have a type of steering material that's not cold to the touch... Simple.
@@DigitalDissident who wants to drive with gloves on, maybe in a race car on the track.
Maybe where you live it doesn't get that cold, but when temperature is in single digits fahrenheit, it's really nice to have heated steering wheel and seats.
If you have a MK7R 15-17 unlock your armrest
Drop in air Filter/remove snow guard at least, if not doing intake.
Change your taillights to LEDs.
It’s funny with the change you made to the reverse camera display. My Australian spec car does that as standard and it drives me mad. I’d love to stop that little display popping up!
It’s probably the same adaptation hahah
My '17 has always done that since new.
Are there any particular rear sway bars you recommend beyond the H&R you opted for? And any particular reason you chose that one? I got my R almost exactly six months ago as well and would like to make that my first major modification of the car.
By the way, I love all your videos. Your content is some of the most informative on the internet.
Tempestwrath I’m gonna throw my 2 cents in here man and say 034 dynamic+ springs, they only drop the car .4” in front and .8” in rear so they are function over form but, my car handles rediculously good. I also recommend 034 sway bar and endlinks. Add me on IG bro. Lil_danny904 and I’ll suggest some mods for you to consider. Thatdudeinblue just reviewed my car Sunday and told me that he couldn’t even make my car understeer lol either he can’t drive or the mods I just suggested really are that good, just holler at me man:)
So where I live, we've got a local VW tuning shop that supplies and installs parts like these. They told me that they recommend H&R because they're a generally great name brand, great product quality, and the bushings, (I believe), are made of a teflon/urethane composite that eliminate all squeaking noises and don't need lubrication. I'd personally highly recommend them!
Jack Curtis that’s wassup. If I ever encounter issues with my setup I’ll give H&R a consideration
Interesting. Not the five i was expecting. Most people do exhaust, wheels, windows etc. These are more practical.
Thanks.
@@HumbleMechanic hey do you still have r32? My wife's had one for about 12 years now and it's been great. Mk 5 3door in silver with bucket recaros. Reliable satisfying car it's been. Whatve we had to do....coil packs, all springs ( seem to be made to snap in winter). Radiator, tyres brakes battery and that's about it. Looks like we will have to sell as my job has gone, thanks mainly to virus. We will miss it . Must be one of our fav cars ever. Still got my r36 though!
Enjoy your channel. Learned a lot thx
Additional cool features:
- Welcome Home lighting (illuminates the lights around the car for a couple seconds after you step out of the car at night),
- Automatically roll-up windows / shut sunroof when the car detects rain. Tilt the side mirror when going in reverse, reset DSG "learnt" prior driving pattern.
- Automatically turn on / accelerate / reduce speed of your windshield wipers when rain is detected...
- Remember the settings of your A/C unit / heated seat.
- Display additional screens on the Computer between the dials (like battery charge, oil level, remaining gas in the gas tank....
So many many features ! MK7.x are really flexible, and if you've been around the world and liked a feature in a polo, passat, golf from another country, the chance is, you can activate that feature in your MK7 here in the US... if the car is equipped with the actual hardware supporting the feature.
Now... reading some recent european reviews about the new generation of Golfs... I'm wondering how MK8 are gonna be like. Seems like VW will include most of the hardware in all cars... and you could pay for over-the-air upgrades/options activations, basically paid features (a bit like ODBeleven.... but by VW...). Hopefully we'll still be able to VCDS them and activate cool features ourselves ! But... hey VW engineers are clever...
I’m guessing they will try and lock out the features. They may have an alternating lock out code. So the only way to activate is by vw. But I’m sure someone will find a way
i personally LOVE the Euro Aspherical mirror lenses. It really makes the side mirrors more usable. I had it on my MK6 GTI and it was one of the first things i did to my new-to-me mk7.5 R
Getting my R on Friday. It comes with spare as standard in UK, kinda silly it doesn't come with one in US. Got OBDeleven on order already. Might get different wheels and keep stock ones with winter tyres on. Not touching stage one at least for now, I don't want to void the warranty, or declare it on my insurance...
I can’t get my windows to do the comfort close or open on my 19 GTI. I also have Joker style blinkers on my car I found out how to add. Love it
Could you please post the coding for parking pilot to automatically turn on... Hate tapping that button... I'm also a VCDS user ;)
Would love to see this as well!
Tune Warranty Advice: Call around to all of your local VW dealers to speak with the service manager. Ask them if their dealership is modification friendly, and/or if they’ll still honor the factory warranty with a tune.
Pro Tip: Check APRs dealer list. Some VW dealers double as an APR dealer. I have found that these dealerships are often more inclined to honor your warranty with a tune. ✌🏼
Good advice.
Couple of my favorite mods I did you didn't list. MK7.5 dynamic tailights, and a DoubleApex garage door opener.
veedubtuner agreed on the dynamic tails. Really classes up the rear of the GoRf. As far as the garage door opener, just get the homelink mirror. I paid $230 for mine, auto-dimming, homelink, compass AND it’s larger and much nicer looking anyway.
@@benupde1979 Homelink mirror wasn't an option when I got my GTI. I personally like the DoubleApex. Thats just me though
The remote start would be super cool! I just got a 2017 Golf R and I was thinking about getting a remote starter. I heard that a DBALL2 with a immobilizer bypass should work.
Even better, enable remote start on a manual car. Difficult, but possible. You'd have to disable the clutch interlock if there is one.
I found a really nice 2017 golf r that I want to pick up. I've just never owned a German car and with all the horror stories out there I'm nervous to make the plunge. I just want it to last.
Just do your research and make sure it's been serviced regularly with low km's. If it's near 100k on the clock then it will need a major service especially around the cambelt. Join a club and ask what the pro's and con's are
I have a 2014 GTI with 150k km on the clock. I have been taking it to the official dealership all this time but I am finding that the dealerships are actually quite bad at maintaining the vehicle for long life span. I am wanting to do some maintenance upgrades, to keep the car running smoothly. What else would you recommend? Rear main seal? catch can? cleaning intake vales? regular changing of DSG oil? Thanks for the great videos
You can disable the start/stop by changing the battery voltage threshold, i have it adjusted to 14V so it never shuts off the engine :)
Yes but you get an alert on mk7.5.
@@HumbleMechanic Ah yes that is true, there are also memory modules for sale on a couple of sites, pretty easy install as it's a plug and play solution
Got any links?
HumbleMechanic www.active-sound.eu/en/start-stop-automatic-ssa/start-stop-automatic-memory-modul-ssam-modul
There are also others that require you to splice in to the harness but this one seems to be pnp :)
The mods that have made the biggest difference for me: dogbone mount, TCU tune, pedal tune
Yes, dogbone mount is a must for all FWD variants of this platform (GTI, Leon Cupra, etc)
@@mbardos And why is that?
@@radytipybybundas to get rid of the infamous wheel hop, when accelerating hard
How do you do the pedal tune?
windscreen wiper tune also
Glad you made this video Charles. Since you arent going to sell me yours (despite constantly asking you), I'm going to getting one in the next 6 months.
SWEET!!! Now is a great time to buy one
Great video, helpful and inspiring! Have you ever regret not buying a manual Golf R instead of the DSG? Do you end up using the paddle shifters a lot or if you keep it most of the time on automatic mode? Could you talk a little bit about the this endless dilema between a manual vs DSG and what is your opinion on that? Thank's! Keep on the good work!
Great topic. No regrets about DSG. I love it
I drooled over the Imola Yellow R at my local dealer today. It's a Manual as well. If I had $50k to blow I'd of said sayonara to my Tiguan and drove it home. Lol
@RJ mi they are beyond silly on price. You can't hardly even get a decently equipped Tiguan for under $40k. Dieselgate really dropped resell value and jacked new price up. About the cheapest VW we have is a base model Golf and it's right about $23k. VW would do good if they gave us the Polo and TRoc to fill the gaps in the lineup price wise.
@@danielhildebrand6892 The tiguan is pretty versatile though? Must be good to be able to go off road and be a little higher up
How about oil catch can? Also, could you please do a video about 4motion tuning?
GREAT video man!
awesome stuff. i'm totally getting the rear swaybar upgrade as i do track it. speaking of took this car to Road America (big power track with long high speed straights and heavy braking areas) and I can confirm the stock brakes are excellent even for track use. very little brake fade and pedal feel stays strong!
Would love to see the minimod with the fuse you mentioned 👍
Great video and i just got a MK7.5R and have watched a lot of your vids on the car :) Just wondering if you considered a front LCA upgrade (to increase caster and camber) or camber tops as the car seems to come with more neg camber in the rear than the fronts which i assume is the standard "safe" setup. I will definitely be getting a stage 1 ecu/dsg tune and rear swaybar upgrade but also want to dial in the alignment to get more front end grip. Cheers :)
Ooooooooh remote start!!! Would be amazing!!!!
Aluminum paddle shifters :P
Yeah I’d love to see a video on the power outlet change.
How has the carbon build up on intake valves improved with 2019-2020 models? I have a 2011 GTI and its one of my biggest gripes with the car.
Thanks for the great videos, very informative & well made. I'm thinking about getting a used 2004 VW Eurovan Camper. Are there particular trouble spots with the VR6 engine or upgrades you would recommend? Could a newer 2 liter I4 TSI engine replace an older warn out VR6? The Eurovan is still a nice platform for touring & some overlanding if you don't want a larger more expensive Sprinter van conversion. What would your dream Eurovan contain? Thanks again for your show, PK.
Looking forward to the engine start stop video. If you do that.
Great video, thank you
I have a 2020 GLI Autobahn and my dealer here in Southern California were very specific with me on warranty as I kindly asked them questions about it. He told me straight up that if you do a tune and come in for warranty claims, the first thing they do is scan the ecu and look for flashes to make sure it’s factory. Then it’s automatically posted to Volkswagen and they know that your car is no longer covered for drive train warranty. The “Okay’s” are the exhaust (better to put on factory exhaust if you are concerned before going) wheels, and aesthetics really. If you bag it or do springs/coil overs whatever suspension mods, it will void the suspension warranties. He specifically said upgrading brakes and rotors are totally fine as the warranty rarely will ever cover them anyways lol
www.trisco.com/pages/diy-blog
In my Audi I remember there’s a temperature threshold with the AC coding that can be changed to control auto start stop. Maybe the Golf is similar.
Can you please explain the 30 power fuse thing. I'm intrigued!
@HumbleMechanic I subscribed just to see that video. I need a specific step by step on how to make my trunk 12V outlet feed power even when the ignition is not on. Please! 🙏🏻
Fyi... if you do this there is a 100mA parasitic draw constantly from the computer thinking something is still turned on and will drain your battery if not driven everyday.
Yes plz on the fuze video👍
This guy is really good.. Speaks rapidly and directly all while providing very helpful info. Question.. I thought APR’s latest tune disengages the engine Start/stop?? Have the other top tuners you mentioned not addressed this? One more reason to go APR in my opinion if not because I agree, it’s the most annoying feature. Thanks again for the great content. Happy 2018 Golf R owner here.
I drive a 2014 MK7 1.4TSI ACT which stock had 140HP. I chipped it to Stage 1+ so I should have around 190HP now. I still feel that this car can go quicker... Any tips? I want to chip my DSG too for extra torque...
too much talking with your face on shot, we all wanted to see more of the car, not your face, sorry buddy. More shots of the car next time buddy. thx
10:25 I’d like the opposite in my Australian MK7.5 R. I find that the overlay obscures the reverse camera view.
Can’t wait to see if you manage to fit that power lift gate. That’d be handy.
It shows up automatically without pressing the button?
Ray Sears yep. My car has the bigger screen without the physical buttons, maybe that’s why?
Great video as always, even though it's older I would like to see more about the mk6 platform/variant /sportswagen options that they do sell in Europe vs USA and of course how we can modify them on our USA vw
Gonna order a Cobb AP tonight for my rabbit :-)
Change the outlets to 30 power nd keep your jump pack plugged into the outlet so when it kills your battery from charging you can use it to jump the car.........boom mind blown 😂...I hope Charles comments this if he sees it lol
Free energy!!!!
Charles, great info, appreciated. In regard to small mods, I've done some of the "badgeskins" vinyl overlays. I've added vinyl to the brake calipers, the front and rear R badge and covered that stupid amber passenger air bag light. Why the heck do I need a light on to tell me the passenger side air bag isn't working when no one is in the seat? Makes no sense. My last small mod is a steering wheel cover. I found one precut for the R and it's a great addition. Makes the wheel much thicker and better to hold while driving... Best....
Rodney Wright But isn’t nice to know that it’s active when someone is actually in the seat 🤷🏽♂️. Sometimes my dog sits up there on short trips and nice to know he isn’t going to get blasted if we get into a fender bender.
Thrust bearings on manual cars that don't fail would be the best mod...
great stuff thanks
I was just talking to someone on r/golf subreddit about how awesome your videos are. You’re amazing dude.
Also if ya wanna show the best way to add windows up/down with the remote that be dope. I miss that on my jetta mkiv
🙏 always love a mention on reddit. Lol. I may do the video to do the video for you guys. I love the feature!!! Just don’t use it on this car
OBDEleven
Keep your warranty by getting a JB4 from Burger Motorsports. I installed this tune and it was night and day. If something fails, takes little time to uninstall and looks like factory.
OMG - Great overview. I traded my R32 for a 2018 M4 CP and still miss my little R32. Need to start following VW again - interested in what’s next for GTI and R beyond 2019 for the US.
The R32 is one of the most fun cars I’ve owned.
This video is awesome!
I’m two-weeks into ownership of a 2019 AllTrack SE DSG that replaced Wifey’s ‘13 Jetta SEL.
Had just gone thru some of your ‘R’ videos the other day, so was super excited to see this hit my feed today...
Anything you can offer to simplify/walk thru the VCDS mods would be SO appreciated. As would the remote start mod. There MUST be a way to make that happen.
I’d also dig it if you could add some insight to adding OEM Adaptive Cruise and/or Top View camera capability. My AllTrack has the Driver’s Assistance Package - I would think that some sensor swaps & coding would provide the ability to access the other features.
Thanks for all your videos! Your stuff is SO helpful.
I have a non factory starter on my R. From what I know you must sacrifice one key to stay hidden in the car at all times to by-pass the immobilizer.
The European version is much more good looking than us 😀
I'm not too sure about that! We have to have the front of the car ruined by the compulsory fitting of a number plate!
I used the spare tire after i had a freak tire blow out on my 19 golf r where the entire tire wall on the inside of the tire tore. no way the fix a flat kit was going to work on it. in 20 minutes, I was back on the road.
I bought a 2019 Golf R and I’m really enjoying it but the lack of a spare tire was almost a deal breaker.
Yeah it should come with.
Hello
i´m in switzerland and i have a Vw sciroco 2.0 tsi
i think it's tuned by sportec but how can i be sure?
and were can i buy those end links for the rear bar????? they are beautiful
Did you do a follow up video on the inside intake temps on the aftermarket intake after ?
I did the intake temps in the intake video. I didn’t install the boost tap and check it that way. With the new shop construction I’ve misplaced the tap. Hahaha doh
Please make a video discussing EGR system delete.
EGR reduces air intake, puts exhaust soot into ur engine, reduces fuel economy, & reduces the lifespan of internal components.
Interested in this
I love this channel, best mechanic on youtube hands down. Super friendly and as someone who doesn't know anything about cars I learned a lot from you!
Thanks so much
One of my favorite coding mods is Scandinavian running lights. Rears always on with DRLs
Nice!!! The the only thing off is interior lighting (cluster and what not)
Might be the wrong place to ask, but have you/will you ever consider getting a mk 6 R?
good stuff Charles :) If possible, can you please find out how to turn ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) off whilst keeping normal Cruise Control on? thank you :) Cheers, Don, Perth W.Australia
I don’t think you can. I’m in a bind here on this one. I don’t think I want to show people how to delete a safety thing like that.
@@HumbleMechanic no problems at all mate, I totally understand.... ACC just gets on my nerves due to the people that drive here in Perth, they might be doing the speed limit, then next minute they slowly slow down by 10-15km/h (for no reason at all) and before I know it (without any notice from the car/ACC), I'm also doing 10-15km/h below the speed limit, for no reason at all..... I'd have no issues with it if everyone kept to the speed limit, but around here, they don't :( LOL
Stage 1 tune. Best bang for the buck. Makes the car feel the way it should have from the factory.