I use OBDEleven and change the settings on the brakes. I felt that there was a zone of nothingness when you apply the breaks and nothing happened and then they kicked in making your braking really jerky. Try this. Module Brake 03 Brakes Adaptation Brake booster: factory value set to 4. The lower the value the more firm pedal feel. I set mine to 1 for better feel and firm braking force. Code 25004 Also: Module 03 Brakes Hydraulic brake assistance On track I set mine to not activated. Allows the driver modulate brake pressure progressively. Finally: Module 03 Brakes Adaptation Straight ahead brake stabilization Allows for tire squirm on softer compound semi slicks tires. Factory setting: Activated Set to: Not activated Those settings should improve your brakes on your next track day. I keep the first one all the time I just like the firm pedal feel with no play.
I have a 2016 S3. On the 3rd engine. The stock IS38 turbo blew the 1st time. That build was 034 stage 2 tune, exhaust, intake, and coilovers. 2nd engine was CTS IS38 turbo, CTS downpipe, 034 stage 2 tune, MQB intercooler, same thing turbo gave out. Now I have IE stage 3 tune and DSG tune. IE intercooler and downpipe. APR HPFP, APR ignition coils, and Garrett GT2260S turbo. So far it's making good power. Everything seems to be working fine this time around. Car is awesome!
Wow that’s crazy! Basically Subaru feels… hope you continue to like it and that last engine is all good. That wa me why I switched from Subaru to Audi. Now on to BMW and Porsche and Toyota
Your S3 videos helped me decide to get my 18 S3, love my car. Glad you did a breakdown of your mods here, gave me a shopping list. I've already done the rear sway bar but didn't know about the subframe and dogbone inserts.
Reason I started watching your channel was this car. I was sad when you stopped making videos on it. This video was a great refresh of that old content but now even more sad you’re getting rid of the car...
Cooking brakes is a common issue on MQB cars. Even the TTRS cooks its brakes. Also, small correction, the A3/TT are not the only front-biased Audis. The A4 with Ultra is front-biased. The A6 and A7 are also front-biased...yes, even with the V6. Basically, if it's an Audi with a DCT equipped and it isn't an R8 or an A4/A5 Quattro...it's front-biased.
I own the 2017 S3 too. Most of the rattles and buzzes on this car are as a result of the 19 inch wheel, slim profile tires and hard suspension. I plan to increase the thickness of my tires the next time around with 235/40/R19 next time around, and run something like the Bridge Turenza Quiettrack (I don't track the car) to hopefully resolve the rattles. It drives me nuts. Also, if you have pebbles trapped in the car's plastic under tray, they may be rattling and hitting the hit shields when you drive over bumpy roads.
This vid made me realize that I don’t think I ever tcu tuned my mk6 gti I used to have. I was on APR stage 2 but I don’t think true trans ever got touched, bummer, I missed out :/ I didn’t know much about modding/tuning back then
I also like how Blake went with the physical (analog) dashboard.. which is stunning looking BTW, especially in the 2017+ and down the line the analog cluster is much less prone to failure.( The dashboard area is a harsh environment) Also, while the virtual cockpit is cool looking, that special "Feeling" wears off after a little while. The virtual cockpit will also soon be dated in a couple years when Audi releases the next generation of VC, while the good old analog cluster is timeless classic.
Own and love a 8p a3 quattro S-line with koni yellows. I have driven most dual clutch transmissions on the market and the VW/a3 box has the right blend of aggressive and smooth. Had planned to upgrade to a S4, but the transmission is far more refined and not as fun. But hot tip, buddy of mine runs the vw/Audi dsg fluid in his evo x mr and it now shifts almost as smooth as my 8p, making it my favorite dct after PDK of coarse. People consider the S4 the better car but ill take haldex over true quattro and +500lbs! A3 is a perfect blend of weight, power and wheelbase. A true delight to drive.
100% agree, I just got an almost never driven/very low mileage Audi S3 2018 , and I chose it over the S4 and S5 because of how "tossable" and nimble the S3 chasis is-(perfect size and shape) its pure joy to drive my S3, the S4 steering feels numb and you dont feel as connected to the road as you to with the S3, I agree I love the haldex it handles perfectly fine in the snow and rain, almost no slippage. Also, the S3 is a beautiful car as well, looks better than the S4/S5 IMO
@@volkssturm9694 Yes, it takes a level of maturity to say the "lesser" car is the more fun one. For the great majority of driving enthusiasts who will never actually track their daily driver, the A3/S3 is a superb choice. I even told my friend to cross shop it against the m3/m4 he has his heart set on.
Cheers , thanks for taking the time -. I pick mine up this week, a Sportsback 2019 12,000kms, planning to run her in standard trim for a few months and then go Stage 1 run that and consider a stage 2. Looking to Use REVO after market goodies for the various stages of tune.....
Great review! I have an 2018 S3, love the size, reminds me of my 1999 A4. There's only two things I don't like. 1. No engine temp gauge 2. Exhaust sound. I've never liked the sound of a 4 cylinder exhaust, I've tried over the years, does nothing for me. Mine came with the resonator delete, found a stock one on the Audi forum, it's going on soon. I'd rather have a quiet 4 cyl. exhaust.
interesting, I have a 2018 S3 also , have the resonator delete from factory and I honestly think its one of the best sounding 4 cylinder turbos out there , I love it .No temp gauge I agree is a minor negative.
Very cool videos on the S3 and tuning. I just bought a 2015 A4 Allroad and I've been thinking about an APR Stage I/II tune and various related accessories. I'm not a track guy and I don't want obnoxious pops & bangs. I also want Audi service with zero issues. So these videos have really been great in order for me adjust my expectations and target what I really want with it. Thanks!
Love your car I have a 15 Daytona Grey launch edition S3 with almost all/ similar mods. One complaint I have also is the drone I have catted Downpipe with a full non resonated exhaust and I’m gonna add one to it other than that no issues. You’re videos have helped me so much especially the oil change and brake videos. Sad to see it go but excited to see the replacement hopefully stay in the Audi family
Hey Blake, great video! I recently purchased a 2019 S3 in Glacier White, and have checked our a bunch of your vids. I def appreciate the setups and reviews! Tint then front Splitter are my current priorities. I need to read up more about the warranty and how to stay within it before I look into coilovers and a rear sway. But as they say, pay to play haha.
Basically as far as warranty that wouldn't affect anything but suspension components they can't void the warranty on the engine or anything because you lowered the car unless they can prove that caused the issue. But they can't so mod away. These this are pretty rugged as far as reliability.
Part of the reason I considered an Audi was due to you having yours. Weren’t you cursing at the s3 as it was always rolling up your windows on autocross? Was kind of funny. Thanks for all the videos!
I was at one point lol yeah the Audi thought it was going to flip a few times and rolled up the windows. Also I've had the seatbelts lock down on me really hard with the electronic tentioners.
Just got my 2016 S3 love it!! Already ordered intake/inlet hose and inlet pipe. Definitely wanting to do a stage 1, just not sure if I want to go catback or res delete? Keep up the content looking forward to more videos!
Great video, been thinking about s3 but am debating s4 or s5. Not sure if the diff and rear wheel bias on those would be better on track and/or more fun day to day? Would you go with those over this?
I definitely Enjoy the video I just purchased a 2020 Audi 83 front wheel drive so I'd love to hear things about that car in that area about what I should do and what I shouldn't do
@@BlakesGarage my car is still completely stock at the moment and hasnt given me a days trouble in 3 years...literally...ive never had any trouble in 3 years
I’ve got a 2016 s3, havent done any mods so far. Thinking about putting a cold air intake on it though, just to help the turbo breath better. The stock intake seems really skinny and I can imagine would restrict the air flow causing the turbo to heat up more than necessary.
So whats replacing the S3? You should wait for the next generation STI. Get in on the FA24 when it comes out. Prime Motoring in NJ has been doing great things with the FA24 they put in their Crosstrek!
A couple of questions since I’m about to get an Audi S3 or RS3 if I find one good deal. 1.- would you recommend more the S4 over the s3? Im just looking for a daily driver and my “sporty car” on the weekends. 2.- I know there is a lot of videos about this but would like your point of view since you have owned several cars, so S3 vs RS3.. is it worthy to pay idk 10-11k more for the RS3? Or mod the S3? 3.- If you can only pick 1 car between BMW or Audi which one would you choose? And why?
Did you ever have any issue just running the lower 034 insert? They always recommend running the top insert as well but I had that on my old Mk6 and it was way to much NVH although I loved the feel. I’f love to improve it a bit I’m Im scared of mount wearing out prematurely.
I got 2018 s3 and I'm starting to get it tuned and put some mod on it also Quattro front grill with lip and I took some things on this Video to order next :)
Any known Gen 5 Haldex issues? Just bought CPO and servicing it soon for first time @45k miles. Haven’t seen the pump yet but I’ve heard the filter can get gunked
Picked up a gorgeous 2020 A3. I know it isn’t as fast, but lots of potential. If you could only do one of the upgrades, which would it be? I already have tires and rims. Thinking exhaust or rear sway bar?
I have a A3 TDI manual atm, and really want to get a 2018 S3 but super scared of the DSG automatic gearbox because know after about 63000 + miles the DSG tends to go and that is with all VW and Audi's that I have heard so far.
Dude, I'm in to buy some of the parts on the part out, I have a 2018 s3, and you are right about the gearing, i'm at about 2400 rpms at 80, so much better...
@@susanmiller442 i heard the same, I just picked up a 2018 S3 with just 7K miles. Also, the 2.0T in the S3 does not have all the same internals as the stock 2.0T in the A3, the internals have been upgraded to withstand higher heat and tolerances under load in the S3 . The S3 also has a different combustion ration as well.. Its one hell of an engine thats for sure.
I hadn't seen a video of this car in a while on the channel. How many miles were on it when you sold it and how satisfied were you with its performance and reliability?
Hey blake, need some tips: I have a s3 pre face lift however it’s manual and I have a resonator delete(along with other aesthetic mods). Really looking for some pops and bangs, what do you recommend? I’ve heard there’s a tune which focuses just on bangs and pops. Or do i need a complete new exhaust?
Great vid. I’ll be doing some of these mods for my 15’ s3. I was curious on if you had any issues with heat? I want to go stage 2 and downpipe but I’ve heard the car can’t handle that heat.
I have a front mount and it did help with heat soak. I also have a racingline oil cooler and catch can and in Virginia summers (75 mile one way commute) with 90+ temps I've been as low as 207 and as high as 220. Audi says 200-230 is standard temps for the car. Only issue I've had thus far is a valve cover gasket. I don't track mine since I daily it but I live in the country so I do get some twistys here and there after I leave DC. Its super fun, I really enjoy it.
Thank you both, my plan was to run a front mount before stage 2 so I’ll just get the cooling issues out of the way before I add anymore power. Also I don’t daily mine anymore but when I did it would be pretty solid unless I had some back to back quick pulls.
Definitely not legal at all. You’d have to swap to stock for a smog. I never had to smog as the car was still very new so I didn’t have to mess with that.
Great vid man! What are the wheels again? I have a 2015 S3 and love it, thinking of APR or 034 cold intake and raising the car for foul weather driving in the Northeast. Keep em coming!
Hey love you’re car on the way to building mine just bout an 2013 a3 2.0t the only thing is mine s fwd but in still stoked with the duel clutch transmission and turbo good luck with your car seems like it’s reality is good if taken care of I have a slight viabration after 60 like a thump thump thump in the whole care as I drive highway speeds it’s on stock coils with 90 thousand miles fwd not sure if it’s a wheel bearing or suspension maybe something else i didn’t think of I live in Las Vegas now and I had to get seven wheel alignments before they got it right butch of really bad mechanics over here any advice in this situation would be very helpful need a good shop
Nice video review! What are you upgrading to? Are you getting rid of the S3 because of potential future issues? I got rid of my built STI for a GS F, and recently traded in the F for an RS3. Definitely don't miss the woes of the EJ257! Altho the steering feel in the STI was much better than in the RS3 and a little better than the GS F.
What is your 0-60 on stage 2? Did you run stage 1 or jump right into stage 2? Mine is bone stock and I am loving it. Not p,an I gonna to track the car but like to know I can walk a 330 or Merc.
How would you review it from a track car perspective? Would you say it has track weapon potential compared to the m4? Even though the weight distribution is no where near as good
I’m stoked to get my own S3 setup very similarly to this!
Same
I’m in the middle of building mine! So far only APR stage 1tune, resonator delete and intake/turbo inlet
I use OBDEleven and change the settings on the brakes. I felt that there was a zone of nothingness when you apply the breaks and nothing happened and then they kicked in making your braking really jerky.
Try this.
Module Brake 03 Brakes
Adaptation
Brake booster: factory value set to 4.
The lower the value the more firm pedal feel. I set mine to 1 for better feel and firm braking force.
Code 25004
Also: Module 03 Brakes
Hydraulic brake assistance
On track I set mine to not activated.
Allows the driver modulate brake pressure progressively.
Finally:
Module 03 Brakes
Adaptation
Straight ahead brake stabilization
Allows for tire squirm on softer compound semi slicks tires.
Factory setting: Activated
Set to: Not activated
Those settings should improve your brakes on your next track day. I keep the first one all the time I just like the firm pedal feel with no play.
Picking up a 2017 S3 soon and trading in my 18 WRX. Super excited for it!
why? may I ask im tossing up between a 2015 s3 sedan and a 2017 wrx
I went the same route. New 2018 S3. 2017 Rex
go with the Rex. 2015 S3 could be a money pit
@@susanmiller442 Subaru's are a money pit. No difference lol
@@susanmiller442 why do you say the 2015 s3 is a money pit? I'm supposed to pick one up soon
I have a 2016 S3. On the 3rd engine. The stock IS38 turbo blew the 1st time. That build was 034 stage 2 tune, exhaust, intake, and coilovers. 2nd engine was CTS IS38 turbo, CTS downpipe, 034 stage 2 tune, MQB intercooler, same thing turbo gave out. Now I have IE stage 3 tune and DSG tune. IE intercooler and downpipe. APR HPFP, APR ignition coils, and Garrett GT2260S turbo. So far it's making good power. Everything seems to be working fine this time around. Car is awesome!
Wow that’s crazy! Basically Subaru feels… hope you continue to like it and that last engine is all good. That wa me why I switched from Subaru to Audi. Now on to BMW and Porsche and Toyota
@Blake's Garage yeah I am going to stay with it. The S3 is my baby now. Gonna run this set up a little bit. Then go apr stage 3 turbo.
Your S3 videos helped me decide to get my 18 S3, love my car. Glad you did a breakdown of your mods here, gave me a shopping list. I've already done the rear sway bar but didn't know about the subframe and dogbone inserts.
ha i love my 2018 S3 too.. but i am way late to Blake S3 party. better late than never.. this car is AWESOME..
How’s your car been so far mechanical wise? How’s it been
As a 2023 S3 owner how is/ was your journey on tuning this pocket rocket
Reason I started watching your channel was this car. I was sad when you stopped making videos on it. This video was a great refresh of that old content but now even more sad you’re getting rid of the car...
Cooking brakes is a common issue on MQB cars. Even the TTRS cooks its brakes. Also, small correction, the A3/TT are not the only front-biased Audis. The A4 with Ultra is front-biased. The A6 and A7 are also front-biased...yes, even with the V6. Basically, if it's an Audi with a DCT equipped and it isn't an R8 or an A4/A5 Quattro...it's front-biased.
Pretty sure I’ve watched every video you’ve posted over the last 2 years. Keep up the quality content. fingers crossed the RS3 is next 😊
Awesome thanks for the support ! I think you'll like the replacement.
Thank you for solidifying my choice of buying an s3! This car is awesome
I own the 2017 S3 too. Most of the rattles and buzzes on this car are as a result of the 19 inch wheel, slim profile tires and hard suspension. I plan to increase the thickness of my tires the next time around with 235/40/R19 next time around, and run something like the Bridge Turenza Quiettrack (I don't track the car) to hopefully resolve the rattles. It drives me nuts. Also, if you have pebbles trapped in the car's plastic under tray, they may be rattling and hitting the hit shields when you drive over bumpy roads.
Excellent video. I'm 1 month into owning my 17 S3. Just added EQT stage 1 and loving it.
This vid made me realize that I don’t think I ever tcu tuned my mk6 gti I used to have. I was on APR stage 2 but I don’t think true trans ever got touched, bummer, I missed out :/ I didn’t know much about modding/tuning back then
Man that warehouse location you have is soooo dope!! Audi is looking good bro!
Yeah I like this spot
I also like how Blake went with the physical (analog) dashboard.. which is stunning looking BTW, especially in the 2017+ and down the line the analog cluster is much less prone to failure.( The dashboard area is a harsh environment) Also, while the virtual cockpit is cool looking, that special "Feeling" wears off after a little while. The virtual cockpit will also soon be dated in a couple years when Audi releases the next generation of VC, while the good old analog cluster is timeless classic.
100% agree the analog dash is preferable and looks much better!
Love the sounds of that exhaust! I've watched most of your vid's, looking forwards to the next project :)
Own and love a 8p a3 quattro S-line with koni yellows. I have driven most dual clutch transmissions on the market and the VW/a3 box has the right blend of aggressive and smooth. Had planned to upgrade to a S4, but the transmission is far more refined and not as fun. But hot tip, buddy of mine runs the vw/Audi dsg fluid in his evo x mr and it now shifts almost as smooth as my 8p, making it my favorite dct after PDK of coarse. People consider the S4 the better car but ill take haldex over true quattro and +500lbs! A3 is a perfect blend of weight, power and wheelbase. A true delight to drive.
100% agree, I just got an almost never driven/very low mileage Audi S3 2018 , and I chose it over the S4 and S5 because of how "tossable" and nimble the S3 chasis is-(perfect size and shape) its pure joy to drive my S3, the S4 steering feels numb and you dont feel as connected to the road as you to with the S3, I agree I love the haldex it handles perfectly fine in the snow and rain, almost no slippage. Also, the S3 is a beautiful car as well, looks better than the S4/S5 IMO
@@volkssturm9694 Yes, it takes a level of maturity to say the "lesser" car is the more fun one. For the great majority of driving enthusiasts who will never actually track their daily driver, the A3/S3 is a superb choice. I even told my friend to cross shop it against the m3/m4 he has his heart set on.
I have the 18 S3, no issues so far. I hope you do a few more post on the S3.
I have a few more videos already recorder just have to edit them up.
Cheers , thanks for taking the time -. I pick mine up this week, a Sportsback 2019 12,000kms, planning to run her in standard trim for a few months and then go Stage 1 run that and consider a stage 2. Looking to Use REVO after market goodies for the various stages of tune.....
Great review! I have an 2018 S3, love the size, reminds me of my 1999 A4.
There's only two things I don't like.
1. No engine temp gauge
2. Exhaust sound. I've never liked the sound of a 4 cylinder exhaust, I've tried over the years, does nothing for me. Mine came with the resonator delete, found a stock one on the Audi forum, it's going on soon. I'd rather have a quiet 4 cyl. exhaust.
interesting, I have a 2018 S3 also , have the resonator delete from factory and I honestly think its one of the best sounding 4 cylinder turbos out there , I love it .No temp gauge I agree is a minor negative.
Thanks for this vid. New to the channel just purchased a 2018 s3 looking forward to it.
You might have sold me on getting an s3. Watching you beat on that car and it hasn't broke anything!
I have a 19 tuned GLI and similar ownership experience. I took got low coolant in high elevation, thanks for the vid!
Had my 17 s3 for 2 week can't wait to upgrade it
I love my S3 stage 1. Coming from 15 STI.
Ayee I had a 15 impreza I'm getting an s3 this week haha
@@tylerg749 you won't be disappointed
Very cool videos on the S3 and tuning. I just bought a 2015 A4 Allroad and I've been thinking about an APR Stage I/II tune and various related accessories. I'm not a track guy and I don't want obnoxious pops & bangs. I also want Audi service with zero issues. So these videos have really been great in order for me adjust my expectations and target what I really want with it. Thanks!
Audi service is not the move
Love your car I have a 15 Daytona Grey launch edition S3 with almost all/ similar mods. One complaint I have also is the drone I have catted Downpipe with a full non resonated exhaust and I’m gonna add one to it other than that no issues. You’re videos have helped me so much especially the oil change and brake videos. Sad to see it go but excited to see the replacement hopefully stay in the Audi family
Daytona Grey is the best color. Maybe I'm biased though
@@AdamBath I think the Navarra Blue is just that much better, but I have one in Daytona Grey and I do agree it looks phenomenal.
Hey Blake, great video! I recently purchased a 2019 S3 in Glacier White, and have checked our a bunch of your vids. I def appreciate the setups and reviews! Tint then front Splitter are my current priorities. I need to read up more about the warranty and how to stay within it before I look into coilovers and a rear sway. But as they say, pay to play haha.
Basically as far as warranty that wouldn't affect anything but suspension components they can't void the warranty on the engine or anything because you lowered the car unless they can prove that caused the issue. But they can't so mod away. These this are pretty rugged as far as reliability.
The window noise and the rattles! Lol I guess it’s not just my s3 😂
My sunroof been rattling for a while. Finally took it to the dealership and they lubed it and that fixed it
Part of the reason I considered an Audi was due to you having yours. Weren’t you cursing at the s3 as it was always rolling up your windows on autocross? Was kind of funny. Thanks for all the videos!
I was at one point lol yeah the Audi thought it was going to flip a few times and rolled up the windows. Also I've had the seatbelts lock down on me really hard with the electronic tentioners.
Great video! Got a sub out of it. Great editing with the B-roll too
I’m a huge fan of white cars dude and your setup is exactly what I want! It looks awesome 😎
Thanks
Love your vids on the S3, sorry to see it go.
Just got my 2016 S3 love it!! Already ordered intake/inlet hose and inlet pipe. Definitely wanting to do a stage 1, just not sure if I want to go catback or res delete? Keep up the content looking forward to more videos!
really thinking about getting one of these, this video helped a lot! well done video!
Great video, been thinking about s3 but am debating s4 or s5. Not sure if the diff and rear wheel bias on those would be better on track and/or more fun day to day? Would you go with those over this?
My s3 had the same issue with the downpipe clamp. Came loose and gave me an epc light. My cars also stage 2 but honesty it was a quick fix.
I definitely Enjoy the video I just purchased a 2020 Audi 83 front wheel drive so I'd love to hear things about that car in that area about what I should do and what I shouldn't do
You can disable the torque vectoring by the brakes using an OBD11. Turn XDS Interaction to off.
I have messed with that setting a bit and I does make it a bit better.
Outstanding thank you I’ve been thinking about getting an S3
My plan is to get an s3 in the next year...i have a 2005 subaru 2.5 at the moment...so cant wait to upgrade to the s3
Do it before that EJ explodes and isn't worth anything but a headache 👍
@@BlakesGarage my car is still completely stock at the moment and hasnt given me a days trouble in 3 years...literally...ive never had any trouble in 3 years
Absolutely love the look of these wheels! Are they the 3SDM??
If you were in the market would you opt for another s3 or a bmw m235i
I’ve got a 2016 s3, havent done any mods so far.
Thinking about putting a cold air intake on it though, just to help the turbo breath better. The stock intake seems really skinny and I can imagine would restrict the air flow causing the turbo to heat up more than necessary.
So whats replacing the S3? You should wait for the next generation STI. Get in on the FA24 when it comes out. Prime Motoring in NJ has been doing great things with the FA24 they put in their Crosstrek!
I will never buy another Subaru
@@BlakesGarage smart man
A couple of questions since I’m about to get an Audi S3 or RS3 if I find one good deal.
1.- would you recommend more the S4 over the s3? Im just looking for a daily driver and my “sporty car” on the weekends.
2.- I know there is a lot of videos about this but would like your point of view since you have owned several cars, so S3 vs RS3.. is it worthy to pay idk 10-11k more for the RS3? Or mod the S3?
3.- If you can only pick 1 car between
BMW or Audi which one would you choose? And why?
That intro. Good all mighty.
Did you ever have any issue just running the lower 034 insert? They always recommend running the top insert as well but I had that on my old Mk6 and it was way to much NVH although I loved the feel. I’f love to improve it a bit I’m Im scared of mount wearing out prematurely.
Picking up my S3 this week with 40k milage. Hoping there's no issues for a long while
Buy mine lol
Love your vids man! Keep up the good work!
Thanks I appreciate it 👍
epic overview. I am hesitant to buy because of the drive bias though.
Great video. The description is confusing because you are listing BMW parts as well. Cheers!
Oh yeah that's my default stuff I'll have to fix that. Thanks
I got 2018 s3 and I'm starting to get it tuned and put some mod on it also Quattro front grill with lip and I took some things on this Video to order next :)
Love it man! Very clean build.
Thanks
Any known Gen 5 Haldex issues? Just bought CPO and servicing it soon for first time @45k miles. Haven’t seen the pump yet but I’ve heard the filter can get gunked
Love the look of these cars
Picked up a gorgeous 2020 A3. I know it isn’t as fast, but lots of potential. If you could only do one of the upgrades, which would it be? I already have tires and rims. Thinking exhaust or rear sway bar?
Rear sway bar upgrade
Compared to your m4 what was the cost to own? Maintainance, insurance, etc.
I am definitely copying this
Can’t wait to see what’s next!
Shawty the cold air intake 🙏🏼
Beautiful car mate, thinking about to get a s3 myself.
Great car I didn’t blow it up so it has my badge of approval 😂
Hahaha nice to hear, how is the interior ? Is it soft touch? A friend of mine has a 2010 a3 and i have to say it feels pretty cheap... very plasticish
Hey Blake ... old vid but I would love to know what model wheels those are!!
Great video btw! Thanks!
They were VMR wheels
I have a A3 TDI manual atm, and really want to get a 2018 S3 but super scared of the DSG automatic gearbox because know after about 63000 + miles the DSG tends to go and that is with all VW and Audi's that I have heard so far.
That's a very specific mileage. DSG tune will help the clutches last longer. I've never had any issues or heard about that in the S3.
damn, you give us so many insights, thx Blake
Dude, I'm in to buy some of the parts on the part out, I have a 2018 s3, and you are right about the gearing, i'm at about 2400 rpms at 80, so much better...
Yeah that's a nice cruzing speed. Sold everything but the wheels tires and floormats.
Clean ride...good work.
Awesome car, what wheels are they.
Sick Build
Did the car need oil topped off
Between services? My old s4 guzzled oil.
Sounds like a thumbs-up 👍 to Audi on a reliability...
Reliability is far better on 2016 and up.
@@susanmiller442 i heard the same, I just picked up a 2018 S3 with just 7K miles. Also, the 2.0T in the S3 does not have all the same internals as the stock 2.0T in the A3, the internals have been upgraded to withstand higher heat and tolerances under load in the S3 . The S3 also has a different combustion ration as well.. Its one hell of an engine thats for sure.
Nice build, nice car!
I hadn't seen a video of this car in a while on the channel. How many miles were on it when you sold it and how satisfied were you with its performance and reliability?
I think 30k, car was great M4 was better. Performance wise not on the same level as a M car.
Hey blake, need some tips:
I have a s3 pre face lift however it’s manual and I have a resonator delete(along with other aesthetic mods). Really looking for some pops and bangs, what do you recommend? I’ve heard there’s a tune which focuses just on bangs and pops. Or do i need a complete new exhaust?
Tune will do that for ya.
Awesome man. If you start parting out. I’m very interested in some of your parts!! Lmk!!
DM me on IG @Blakesgarage
Good video dude. What year is this model?
2017
Great vid. I’ll be doing some of these mods for my 15’ s3. I was curious on if you had any issues with heat? I want to go stage 2 and downpipe but I’ve heard the car can’t handle that heat.
Run a front mount and you should be good but honestly heat soak is an issue if you go more power and don’t adress the issue.
I have a front mount and it did help with heat soak. I also have a racingline oil cooler and catch can and in Virginia summers (75 mile one way commute) with 90+ temps I've been as low as 207 and as high as 220. Audi says 200-230 is standard temps for the car. Only issue I've had thus far is a valve cover gasket. I don't track mine since I daily it but I live in the country so I do get some twistys here and there after I leave DC. Its super fun, I really enjoy it.
Thank you both, my plan was to run a front mount before stage 2 so I’ll just get the cooling issues out of the way before I add anymore power. Also I don’t daily mine anymore but when I did it would be pretty solid unless I had some back to back quick pulls.
Love the car and the info!
Great review. Thank you.
awesome exhaust sound
Hey what a coincidence. I'm going from a 16 wrx to a S3 in a few days 😅😅😅
Thinking of getting a S3 how was it going from driving manual every day to doing the DSG every day
Audi DSG is pretty fun but the BMW DCT and Porsche PDK are night and day better
Great information dude..love your car..👏👏👏
How are the 034 springs for ride comfort? Debating between the 034s and APRs.
Extremely helpful video
Any issues with smog test with the intake down pipe etc? Great ride by the way!
Definitely not legal at all. You’d have to swap to stock for a smog. I never had to smog as the car was still very new so I didn’t have to mess with that.
What was your brake setup for track days? Pads, fluid, lines, etc. Brakes are still the weakest link on my track days, so I'm upgrading step by step.
Colbalt Friction XR1 front XR2 rear I still have a full set of rotors used and rear pads with good life if Interested.
You say your brakes overheating was a bad..did you ever try installing the RS3 brake ducts to combat the overheating issues?
Beautiful car 🤩
Love the wheels! Does anyone know what they’re called?
"something down there"
I have an a3 every thing factory and my epc light came on what could be the problem help
Great vid man! What are the wheels again? I have a 2015 S3 and love it, thinking of APR or 034 cold intake and raising the car for foul weather driving in the Northeast. Keep em coming!
Christopher Bloom the wheels are VMR I think
The rattle is probably from the front screen of the moon roof when it’s opened.
Could have been.
Hey love you’re car on the way to building mine just bout an 2013 a3 2.0t the only thing is mine s fwd but in still stoked with the duel clutch transmission and turbo good luck with your car seems like it’s reality is good if taken care of I have a slight viabration after 60 like a thump thump thump in the whole care as I drive highway speeds it’s on stock coils with 90 thousand miles fwd not sure if it’s a wheel bearing or suspension maybe something else i didn’t think of I live in Las Vegas now and I had to get seven wheel alignments before they got it right butch of really bad mechanics over here any advice in this situation would be very helpful need a good shop
Nice video review! What are you upgrading to? Are you getting rid of the S3 because of potential future issues? I got rid of my built STI for a GS F, and recently traded in the F for an RS3. Definitely don't miss the woes of the EJ257! Altho the steering feel in the STI was much better than in the RS3 and a little better than the GS F.
You'll see soon. Car was a lease so it's almost up and we're also tired of it.
I've been looking into this platform and nice to see someone thats local! sucks that you might sell it. why are you getting rid of it?
What is your 0-60 on stage 2?
Did you run stage 1 or jump right into stage 2?
Mine is bone stock and I am loving it. Not p,an I gonna to track the car but like to know I can walk a 330 or Merc.
Check some of my older S3 videos I do a full comparison on stage 1 Vs stage 2 Vs stage 2 with an intake
im confused if I should get this or a b8.5 s4
How would you review it from a track car perspective? Would you say it has track weapon potential compared to the m4? Even though the weight distribution is no where near as good
No where near as good as the M4 is on track.
Still a very fun car on track though.
What was your Laguna seca times in both cars?
gregnm240 1:46 in the S3 1:42 in the M4
love this car man
Thanks