Car customisation is undoubtedly a booming business. It might not be for everyone but there is a mass of car enthusiasts wanting to put their own stamp on their vehicle. But how many modifications improve the vehicle performance, are purely aesthetic or adversely affecting the vehicle? Whilst most people know certain car mods are illegal, how far is too far?
Are modifications safe?
Primarily the question we should all be asking is are modifications safe. Carefully chosen aftermarket parts from trusted suppliers should not be an issue, provided they are fitted to the manufacturer’s instructions and a fitted by a qualified mechanic. As long as the correct parts are chosen for your vehicle, aftermarket upgrades should not need to be altered to fit your vehicle.
Modifications which aren’t safe can actually be deemed illegal. Theses include LED neon lights and tinted windows. There are limits to how bright your lights are allowed to be and how dark you can tint your windows. It is a grey area really as there are no exact specifications to be found, if in doubt ask your mechanic!
If you’re choosing aftermarket parts to enhance the safety of your vehicle these could include brake pads and discs and bushes/arms. We’ve previously written a blog on the benefits of RTS upgraded brake pads (you can read that ‘here’). We are a Superpro dealer and hold much of their stock for VAG vehicles in reception. Upgraded bushes have benefits such as maintained steering geometry. Enhanced handling & ride characteristics. Essentially a safer vehicle with more grip!
Will the warranty be void?
One of the most important factors to deciding whether to modify your car is whether your warranty will still be valid. This is obviously more prevalent in cars under 3 years old. Warranty may not be covered with certain modifications. Wheels, Tyres and Suspension are the safest options to start with as these parts wont add stress to anything. In fact, in most cases, you’ll be lowering that stress with a lighter wheel and tire package. As a basic rule check your owner’s manual, however modifications such as large bore and sports exhaust systems can fall foul of both fuel emission rules and laws limiting noise pollution. Check with your warranty provider and make sure whoever is fitting the parts is an approved engineer! Insurance companies also need to be informed of any modifications or your insurance could be voided!
We stock a range of vehicle upgrades in our reception and are authorised dealers for several companies. Including Revo, Racingline, Superpro, RTS performance and many more! Get in touch if you’re looking for a quote on 01642 613852.
As of November 22 we have been carrying out Revo maps and fitting hardware to the Ford market! Something as a VAG specialist we didn’t anticipate ever doing! The demand has been crazy since we have announced the new addition to our services and we have loved every minute of this new adventure. We’re bringing Revo to the Ford market!
Adding the Ford market is something we have been toying with for a while now but ultimately we couldn’t turn down the opportunity. We do still only carry out Revo maps and Hardware, we are not adding repairs/maintenance to this for a number of reasons. One being we don’t have the staff to be able to take on the extra workload, secondly because if we find something wrong with a vehicle outside of general maintenance, we haven’t got the tools and added knowledge a Ford specialist would have to repair the problem.
So what can you get from Revo software?
Developed on the racetrack, ready for the road. The Revo tuning philosophy ensures that impressive performance benefits are balanced with useable, reliable power delivery that enhances the way you can drive your vehicle. Development on the road and racetrack as well as testing in controlled dyno conditions gives you a clearer picture of the performance you can expect from Revo ECU Software. Testing in this way plays an important role in ensuring the highest quality products and delivering the driving experience expected.
Revo offers some of the most substantial performance increases on the market, however, only the driven know that peak figures form part of a much bigger picture and are never the sole focus during Revo’s development process; it’s all about the drive. Only Revo offers a perfect balance of performance, economy and engine longevity.
Revo performance ECU Software gives you much more than just an increase in power and torque. A large part of development is based on driving scenarios and feedback; our calibration doesn’t just offer great dyno curves and peak power/torque figures but an exhilarating driving experience. Expect smooth and refined response at low RPM & partial throttle, with huge gains at wide-open throttle and throughout the whole rev range.
Revo Hardware?
All Revo hardware is designed and tested in-house by a specialist team of experienced engineers. Using state of the art prototyping equipment to aid the design process, and in-depth testing procedures the team are able to ensure the highest quality products.
Revo hardware is engineered to function at a much higher level than a standard component, designed to withstand a multitude of power outputs, should you want that little bit more power later on. Revo strives to produce beautiful products that work and fit seamlessly with your vehicle, offering an OEM+ look with aftermarket performance advantages.
You can take a look at Revo’s Ford blog page ‘here’ and keep up to date on developments and new information!
‘Contact us’ to get a quote on adding Revo to our car!
Thinking of upgrading to a REVO Air intake kit? You’ve come to the right place! We’ll go through the benefits of upgrading and the hardware/software options to go along side. Air intake kits are a complete replacement of the OEM standard already fitted to your vehicle. Initially you may be thinking about having a Stage 2 remap, in which an upgraded intake kit is required. This is because the standard kit cant allow enough air through the engine to allow for the stage 2 power, Therefore it becomes a restriction on power. Upgrading allows the engine to access enough air and reach the turbo as quickly as possible whilst minimising turbulence and restriction.
What does it do?
So as a result of the air being able to travel through the engine effectively, there are many benefits. Boost can be maintained for longer which will give you access to more power through the rev range. You will experience a more aggressive sound, which is why upgrading the Air intake is usually the first port of call for hardware upgrades. You can also gain a lot from just upgrading this one part. They are also not too complex to fit, and usually only take half an hour with a specialist.
Why REVO?
REVO have worked alongside some of the biggest names in the Air Filter industry. Therefore, engineering and designing one of the highest flowing kits available. They carry out extensive testing and use the highest quality materials to enable their products to be top of the market.
Where to buy?
You can purchase the REVO Air Intake Kits through our sister company: VAG-performance. If you require any information on fitment, best software and hardware to go hand in hand, you can email us or fill out the contact form here: Contact
A little information on a vehicle that was in for various repair work. Whilst we were there the customer decided to upgrade to the REVO MQB engine mount kit. This was due to the increased power in the vehicle.
We used REVO’s MQB engine mount kit to give stability to the engine. More power results in more movement during aggressive acceleration. The stock engine mounts, designed to favour comfort over performance. Fail to manage axle hop and torque effectively, requiring you to ease off in order to gain traction. Designed to significantly reduce this engine movement. Revo engine mounts use Powerflex polyurethane bushings to minimise noise, vibration and harshness levels (NVH). Whilst drastically improving traction and acceleration.
A little snipped from REVO themselves.
”The primary design goal of the engine and transmission mounts was to provide a management system for engine movement. During vehicle operation with increased power/torque, in order to retain vehicle acceleration and tyre contact during aggressive driving. To accomplish this, the bushing design of past Revo engine mounts were retained in the MQB engine and transmission mounts, allowing Revo engineers to focus their efforts on bushing stiffness/type to accomplish the task.”
You tube clips.
Here’s a link to REVO’s youtube channel which shows you exactly how much movement the engine gives when using significant power with stock mounts compared to the upgraded REVO mounts.
A little information on a vehicle that was in for various repair work. Whilst we were there the customer decided to upgrade to the REVO MQB engine mount kit. This was due to the increased power in the vehicle.
We used REVO’s MQB engine mount kit to give stability to the engine. More power results in more movement during aggressive acceleration. The stock engine mounts, designed to favour comfort over performance. Fail to manage axle hop and torque effectively, requiring you to ease off in order to gain traction. Designed to significantly reduce this engine movement. Revo engine mounts use Powerflex polyurethane bushings to minimise noise, vibration and harshness levels (NVH). Whilst drastically improving traction and acceleration.
Combining Revo’s expertise in hardware design, development, testing and manufacture with Revo Performance Software the outcome is a complete package to rival anything from an OEM Manufacturer. The IS38 ETR Turbo upgrade is designed to provide a completely reliable solution giving up to 520BHP/580NM on EA888 Gen3 vehicles running on stock engine internals.
Enhancing the vehicle with Revo ECU Software gives you much more than just an increase in power and torque. It feels more responsive and offers a huge improvement throughout the whole rev range, something that only the driven will understand and demand.
Only Revo performance ECU Software maintains factory safety levels and additional driving features. You can also choose between four pre-set fuel quality modes depending on which fuel you use. The Revo SPS Software Switch is also available separately, which can be used to quickly switch between a low boost mode and 3 other performance modes for 97, 98 and 100ron fuel quality.
Stage 3 revo turbo for 500 BHP
Performance and Power packages from Revo are designed for those who want the ultimate experience; refined drivability, exhilarating power delivery and crisp response low down and at the red-line. With a full suite of hardware and performance software available, we’ve created a tuning solution unlike any other. With everything you’ll need installed and set up by one of our Authorised Dealers, we’ve taken the guesswork out of tuning.
Designed for the most driven among us, we’ve designed and extensively tested a full package of supporting products required to run the Revo IS38ETR Turbo and performance ECU Software. Utilising the enhancements made by the Performance Pack, the only limitation is your right foot and how hard you’re willing to push it. Perfected for track and refined for the road, only Revo offers big power without a compromise on day-to-day driveability. Our strict tuning ethos offers the perfect balance of performance, driveability and economy, without sacrificing engine longevity.
Teessides largest stockist of REVO and Racingline products
So, wanting to Upgrade the performance of your VW,Audi , SEAT or Skoda?
Performance products from Revo and Racingline are designed to meet your needs. We stock items such as Intake systems, Braking kits and suspension products. We can offer a total solution for your car.
So, with our experience and product knowledge, we can advise you on the best choice for upgrading the driveability for your performance needs.
Teessides largest stockist of REVO and Racingline
We stock a range of options for engine, suspension, braking and styling for many platforms. We offer full workshop fitting service on all products we sell, inc 4 wheel alignment.