BDT Stage 1 ECU Tune
2015–2021 Audi A3 (8V • EA888 Gen 3 • IS20 • Quattro/FWD)
Your A3 is already a smooth, balanced daily — but the factory file keeps the IS20 on a short leash. BDT Stage 1 wakes up the EA888 Gen 3 with sharper throttle response, a stronger mid-range hit, and clean power that carries to redline — while keeping the car reliable and easy to live with every day.
Fitment & Compatibility
Confirm your exact engine and hardware before purchase.
Vehicle: 2015–2021 Audi A3 (8V) 2.0T
Engine: EA888 Gen 3 • IS20 turbo
- Quattro & FWD supported
- DSG & Manual supported
- Remote OBDII flashing compatible
Stage 1 Driving Feel
- Throttle: sharper tip-in + quicker response
- Midrange: stronger torque hit without being “spiky”
- Boost: smoother ramp + cleaner pull
- Daily: OEM-smooth cruising, way faster when you want it
91/93 OCTANE maps vary by file (Map 4 requires 100 octane).
Unlock the Full Potential of Your Audi A3 (8V)
Exclusively Tuned by Boost Dynamic Tuning — Built by Enthusiasts, for Enthusiasts
At Boost Dynamic Tuning, we don’t do generic flashes. We write in-house Stage 1 calibrations for the EA888 Gen 3 IS20 using real logs, dyno validation, and street refinement to bring your A3 to life without compromising drivability.
With 11+ years of hands-on tuning experience, dyno-verified development, and real-world validation, our Stage 1 ECU Tune transforms your A3 into a confident daily weapon — smooth when you want it, savage when you don’t.
Why Choose BDT?
- Audi/VAG-Specific Tuning Expertise: Purpose-built for the EA888 Gen 3 IS20 platform using OEM-level tools and real-world refinement.
- Authenticity Over Hype: Every file written in-house — no resellers, no copy/paste calibrations.
- Remote Flashing: Flash your A3 via OBDII at home. No ECU shipping. No shop scheduling.
- Dyno-Tested & Street-Proven: Backed by data and validated under real load, not theory.
Stage 1 Highlights
- Multi-Map Switching (5 maps) — on-the-fly via cruise controls
- Rolling Anti-Lag (RAL) — build boost while moving (track/off-road)
- 2-Step (Manual only) • Boosted Launch (DSG) with BDT TCU logic
- Intake Air Temp Safeties + EGT Safety Logic
- Speed Limiter Removed • Neutral/Park Rev Limit Raised
- Auto Start/Stop Defaults Off (feature remains functional)
- Torque Limiters Raised • Fuel/Torque Request Optimized
- Boost Gauge Re-Scaled • VVT Optimization
- Overrun / Crackle Pops (optional) • Low/Medium/Intense
- Refined Boost Control — smoother ramp + stable long pulls
- Reduced Turbo Lag • LPFP/HPFP Targets Optimized
- OBDII Port Flashing
Crackle Pops — Controlled Overrun
Add safe, controlled overrun to your A3. Selectable Low / Medium / Intense levels in Dynamic mode. Subtle on stock exhaust, louder with freer-flowing setups.
⚙️ Boost Control Recalibrated
Factory boost can feel conservative and uneven. BDT rewrites boost logic to deliver:
- Smoother, more linear boost ramp
- Instant throttle engagement
- Consistent pull through every gear
BDT Multi-Map Switching + RAL Live
Preview map switching behavior and Rolling Anti-Lag in action.
Power Gains
Expected Stage 1 gains on 93 octane: up to 268 WHP / 307 WTQ (approx. 308 HP / 353 TQ at the crank).
| Stage | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| Stock BDT dyno numbers | 263 WHP | 280 WTQ |
| Stage 1 (wheel) | 268 WHP | 307 WTQ |
| Stage 1 (crank) | 308 HP | 353 TQ |
Results vary by dyno type, fuel quality, altitude, and supporting hardware. BDT publishes live before/after runs for transparency.
Stage 1 Hardware Requirements
Stage 1 Hardware Requirements (quick view): No required hardware for Stage 1 on the Audi A3 8V IS20. For best consistency and temps, an upgraded intercooler is recommended. DSG vehicles perform best with a BDT TCU tune.
Quick view:
- Required: None (stock supported)
- Recommended: Intake, upgraded intercooler, drivetrain insert upgrades
- Highly recommended: BDT TCU tune (especially DSG)
Upgrade matrix:
| Part / Upgrade | Required | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Stock Hardware | YES | — |
| Upgraded Intercooler | — | YES |
| Air Intake | — | YES |
| Drivetrain Insert Upgrades | — | YES |
| TCU Tune (DSG) | — | HIGHLY |
Multi-Map Layout
- Map 1: Daily (low boost), RAL ON, 2-Step ON, Pops OFF
- Map 2: Daily (standard), RAL ON, 2-Step ON, Pops OFF
- Map 3: Race — NORMAL TIMING, RAL ON, 2-Step ON, Pops ON
- Map 4: Race — HIGH BOOST, HIGH TIMING, RAL ON, 2-Step ON, Pops ON, 100 OCTANE REQUIRED
- Map 5: Valet — RAL OFF, 2-Step OFF, Pops OFF
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What mods are required for BDT Stage 1 on my Audi A3 8V?
A: None are required. Stage 1 supports stock hardware. For best temps and repeatability, we recommend an upgraded intercooler and a quality intake.
Q: Is Stage 1 safe on the stock IS20 turbo?
A: Yes — when maintenance is followed. Stage 1 is calibrated around safe boost targets with IAT/EGT protections and OEM-style safety logic.
Q: What fuel do I need?
A: Maps 1–3 are designed for 91/93 octane depending on your file. Map 4 requires 100 octane. If you don’t have the fuel, don’t run the map.
Q: Do I need a TCU tune for DSG?
A: Not required to run Stage 1, but it’s highly recommended for better clutch pressure, shift logic, and torque handling.
Q: How does multi-map switching work?
A: You switch between 5 maps on the fly using cruise control buttons. Each map has its own boost/behavior so your A3 can go daily to race to valet in seconds.
Maintenance (Read This)
IF YOU WANT YOUR CAR TO SURVIVE, THESE MUST BE DONE!
I WANT YOUR CAR TO SURVIVE MULTIPLE YEARS TO COME WITH MY TUNE. I DON'T JUST RECOMMEND THESE FOR FUN. I HAVE TUNED COUNTLESS AUDI 8V CARS AND THIS IS WHAT I'VE EXPERIENCED THROUGH THE YEARS. IF YOU CAN'T AFFORD THE PARTS, PLEASE DON'T TUNE YOUR CAR. NOT BEING HARSH, BEING STRAIGHTFORWARD SO YOU DON'T BLAME MY TUNE THAT ARE ON COUNTLESS CARS WITHOUT ISSUES BECAUSE THEY FOLLOW MY MAINTENANCE GUIDE.
| Maintenance Schedule | Miles |
|---|---|
| SPARK PLUGS NGK Racing Plugs https://www.ngk.com/ngk-4905-r7438-8-racing-plug |
15–20K |
| OIL CHANGE 5W-40 Liqui Moly OIL FILTER = OEM ONLY |
5K |
| REAR HALDEX FLUID (Quattro) | 30K |
| TRANSMISSION FLUSH / FILTER OEM only |
30K |
| MAP SENSORS OEM only • Intake / before throttle body |
50K |
| PCV ASSEMBLY | 50K |
| INJECTORS + CARBON CLEANING Do them on time to avoid misfires, lean conditions, and long-term damage. |
65K |
Late Policy: If you schedule an in-person flash and arrive late without notice, a $50 fee applies. Reschedules must be made at least 1 hour prior.
EMISSIONS COMPLIANCE NOTICE & LEGAL DISCLAIMER
FOR COMPETITION USE ONLY — NOT FOR STREET USE
This product is sold and intended solely for vehicles used in closed-course racing, off-road competition, or organized motorsport events. It is not legal for use on any pollution-controlled vehicle operated on public roads or highways, as defined under the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. § 7522) and applicable state emissions laws.
By purchasing, installing, or using this product, you explicitly acknowledge and agree to the following terms:
Federal and State Emissions Compliance
- This product may modify, bypass, defeat, or render inoperative one or more emissions control devices, including but not limited to: catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, EGR systems, or OBD monitoring systems.
- The installation or use of this product on any vehicle subject to emissions regulations is strictly prohibited by federal law and may result in civil or criminal penalties, including fines up to $45,000 per vehicle under the Clean Air Act.
- This product is not certified by the EPA or CARB, and is therefore not legal for sale or use in California or any CARB-adopting state.
Assumption of Risk and Waiver of Liability
By purchasing and/or installing this product, you agree to:
- Assume all risk and responsibility for compliance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
- Waive all claims, liabilities, and legal actions against Boost Dynamic Tuning, LLC, its officers, directors, employees, and affiliates arising from the purchase, installation, or use of this product in violation of any applicable law.
- Release Boost Dynamic Tuning, LLC from any and all damages, injuries, or penalties resulting from improper or unlawful use.
⚖️ Indemnification Clause
You further agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Boost Dynamic Tuning, LLC from any fines, penalties, damages, losses, or legal fees resulting from:
- Use of this product in a manner inconsistent with this disclaimer
- Misrepresentation of vehicle use
- Violation of any emissions laws or regulations
Final Notice
This product is sold “as is” and “with all faults”, with no warranties, expressed or implied, regarding legality for public highway use or emissions compliance.
It is the sole responsibility of the end-user to determine the legality of this product for the intended application. Boost Dynamic Tuning, LLC does not condone or recommend illegal street use or emissions equipment tampering.
By completing your purchase, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to this disclaimer in full.
DOWNPIPE NOTICE: BY PURCHASING A MOTORSPORT/RACING PRODUCT ("PRODUCT"), YOU REPRESENT THAT YOU UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT: THE PRODUCT IS NOT DESIGNED TO MEET ANY APPLICABLE EMISSIONS STANDARDS, WHETHER IN THE USA OR OTHERWISE, THE PRODUCT IS NOT DESIGNED TO BE C.A.R.B. COMPLIANT, AND THAT THE PRODUCT IS NOT FOR SALE OR USE IN CALIFORNIA, USA NOR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE THE SALE OR USE IS PROHIBITED BY LAW. BOOST DYNAMIC TUNING, LLC MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, OR CLAIMS THAT THIS PRODUCT COMPLIES WITH ANY APPLICABLE EMISSIONS LAWS AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ANY AND ALL SUCH REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, AND CLAIMS, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. BY PURCHASING THIS PRODUCT, YOU REPRESENT, WARRANT, AND AGREE THAT IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO INFORM YOURSELF OF ANY LAWS OR REGULATIONS THAT MAY APPLY TO YOUR PURCHASE AND/OR USE OF THE PRODUCT.
Reviews
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2008.5 - 2018 A3 1.8T/2.0T STAGE 1 (REMOTE TUNE)
Would highly recommend! Very easy to follow instructions and was relatively quick to tune. Made my car feel more sporty and my fuel economy even went up 10 or so mpg!