Mk7 Volkswagen GTI IS38 Turbo Upgrade DIY (Audi A3, S3, VW Golf R & More)

[@fcpeuro]

Shop our IS38 kit here: www.fcpeuro.com/products/audi-vw-turbocharger-upgrade-kit-is38-ihi-kit-ihiis38kit?

[@andrewcornell7997]

Does this work for the Audi 2017 Audi a3 Quattro 2.0 litre 180kw model I tried to use your website but it was unclear

[@kelvinkimathi3870]

@@andrewcornell7997 4

[@kimlong13]

I have a Skoda Octavia 5E5 2.0 tsi 190bhp DSG from 2019. It has the gen 3 EAA888 engine. I have been told that it has a IS20 turbo. But i have also been told that this turbo i is slightly different from the IS20 turbo on the Golf 7 GTI. Do you know if this is true?? The The Golf 7 GTI will also reach higher numbers than my Skoda Octavia when remapped, supporting the claim that the two IS20 turbos are a bit different. But i want to be sure. Thanks in advance.

[@matttran3858]

Just bought my MK7 last week, and I'm already watching this video. the future looks expensive

[@michaelkain7641]

Lmfao I got mine in November and the last thing I’m waiting on before I put everything I bought in, is an intercooler that has been back ordered. Can confirm it’s addicting and expensive 😂

[@tredfxman]

Just a hint for you guys: im owning a GTI Clubsport Stage 1 (seen on my channel) And just watched a video on a guy having Stage 2 and the mods for it. In the video he asked himself the question: Would he go Stage 2 Again? For normal street driving he said No. Its not worth it because of maintenance costs / failures. These are things, the Tuner Companys will never tell you. So sure, get a new Turbo if you need it. If u wana be on the safe side, dont get a hybrid. Then get your car to Stage 1. Select a FAMOUS / Big name Tuner (can recomend BSR). Make upgrades that may be worthwhile like DSG TCU tune that will save your clutch in the long run etc.. Racingline has an excellent one! Maby swap inlet pipes for better flow Etc... But stay away from Diverter Valves as theyv a tendency to break (at least the cheaper ones) 👍

[@TheAndy7042]

@@michaelkain7641 haha I got mine on September last year I got the 2017 sport package with the nogaro rims, so far I’m stage 2 with tvs tune as well, I am saving more for the intercooler and is38 so you’d burn 3k into the car easily at most

[@michaelkain7641]

Still waiting on intercooler. Supposed to be in stock April 19th smh getting the IE v2 intercooler. I have the HPA oem+ IS38 just sitting in a box at my house, and I just sent it on some software that should be coming by the end of this week. I’m going to say fuck it and throw in the turbo this weekend, if the software comes in time as well as my downpipe that has just been laying around since January. I can’t wait anymore 😂

[@shannonmcatee9610]

Yep

[@rockervdrive]

This is the best IS38 turbo install video I've seen! Thanks for showing the process!

[@fcpeuro]

That's why we made it rockervdrive, glad to share the process step by step with the community!

[@jarviskarchewski6556]

@@fcpeuro Honestly, just got my IS38 and this video gave me way more confidence to do it on my own, thank you so much for the work you put into this!

[@mrich7363]

I agree I feel like I can do this just have to mentally prepared 😂

[@HeKuTK0]

My goodness… the most professional video I ever watched about the TSI engine. Almost 50 mins of the video flew… so interesting to watch. Thank you for the entertainment😊

[@fcpeuro]

Happy to give you some entertaining and educational content HeKuTK0! What do you drive?

[@HeKuTK0]

@@fcpeuro hi there thanks for getting back! I drive Octavia 1.8 CJSA AND a Superb 2.0 CHHB

[@kerbioa]

Just wanted to say that I watched this install video before, during, and after my IS38 OEM+ install. I managed to do a is38 turbo install on my own with no help. Prior to the install I only had knowledge on removing and replacing an automatic transmission. It did take me 5 total days of taking my time to do it right. The hardest part was removing the bottom oil line from both the turbo and engine block. After two days of furiously fighting, I was able to pull off the oil line from the engine block and replacing it on the is38. The second hardest part was during installation of the rear oil line. Some how the 8 MM bolt became brittle and broke when trying to torque the bolt to 9nm. I then had to fight with a drill bit, screw extractor and manage to damage only the top layer of metal near the bolt hole. Once removed, I quickly checked over the turbos ability to hold the screw. Thankfully, everything checked out. Prior to putting on final oil line, I did add some 5W 40 to the top and sealed it up for priming. A quick note, when putting the electrical harness, be sure to put in the removed solenoids or else you will be fighting space for the 5mm bolts. Finally after everything was all said and done, I put in my coolant and the car started burping. I ended up using 4 total quarts. I also took my car out for a short test drive with little boost to see if everything was functioning well. *Note: when you are trying to run the heater after doing the install, be sure to put the thermostat up to max and max heat, then drive it for a short time. You will notice the heater will start working. Also, you can do the waste gate adjustment with the ODBEleven tool. Go to the engine, live data, and type in charge pressure valve sensor uncond. This will give you the voltage rating as needed to make sure you are in between 3.5-3.7 volts.

[@branddawg2376]

did u swap over the whole wastgate actuator from ur is20 to the is38?

[@kerbioa]

@@branddawg2376 my is38 came with everything attached

[@xTheFMx]

My friends looking to do an is20 to is38 turbo upgrade on his 7.5 gti performance Does anything else need changing to push 400bhp other than normal bolt ons ie intake elbow r600 intercooler and downpipe ? Also will a downpipe for a gti fit the is38 ? So if he gets a sports cat downpipe will it fit both the is20 and is38 turbo ?

[@kerbioa]

My IS38 fits like a IS20. I am using a CTS Downpipe. My car is a 7th Gen, but the main difference might be in the front besides the difference with the transmission. Also to get to 400 your gonna need go upgrade your low pressure gas pump line and your high pressure fuel line. Get a good tune mine is with EQT and a good transmission tune.

[@JaeRush1]

@@kerbioa can I run any is38 with an EQT tune? I’m already on EQT but their is38 is sold out atm. Can I use a shuenk is38?

[@pryofireworkguy852]

This is a good, thorough video. Good job. This job isn’t for the faint of heart. The oil return line was the trickiest of the job followed by removing the coolant line on the back of the turbo. Did my first one yesterday and took me 5.5 hours (everything is measured in flat rate hours to me, lol) start to finish including installing the tune. Kit was very complete and had everything I needed.

[@adamkiehl2316]

Just got a 15 MK7 at almost complete stage 1. For some reason... the previous owner didn't install the computer. The car is an absolute beast... wish it was AWD.... but still lol. I'm already making plans for upgrades

[@deanmarr785]

Best bang for the buck. OEM feel with top end power. Love my 2017 sport is38.

[@fcpeuro]

We dont disagree dean!

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

Is yours manual? If so, how's the lag around town compared to the IS20?

[@deanmarr785]

@@MeltingRubberZ28 My car is DSG. Boost comes on at 2500rpms with the is38.

[@MegaMadrid22]

Your video was awesome. I ran in to a nightmare issue where the back colant line was stuck to the turbo, no matter what i used or did wouldn't come off. I had to bend it and replace it. Besides that your video helped me alot. Thank you. Tight space doesn't make this job fun at all.

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks for sharing!

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

Any particular recommendations for a break in period? Heat cycle the car a few times? Specific number of miles before heavy boost? Change the oil shortly after the turbo install? Anything along those lines?

[@avery4528]

This is so goofy. This is why people hate VW. Honda puts the turbocharger in front of the engine instead of behind like VW. It’s half the labor on a Honda; you don’t even have to lift the car or bend over so bad to where to further kill your back. Go watch a video of someone installing a Type R turbo on their 2.0T Accord. It puts Volkswagen to shame.

[@danilomamaril6428]

Good job man that IS CLEAN WORK

[@GTiz4Ever]

Great vid but I believe I would’ve removed the negative battery cable fairly early in the process just for a little added safety. Just a thought.

[@fcpeuro]

It never hurts to do that up front GTi's4Ever , not wrong there!

[@SpaceMissile]

fantastic video. Got one of these in the garage; really looking forward to installing mine in the near future!

[@jamesxuyan]

very detail video。 Thanks a lot

[@drsnowmon]

23:58 mark explains orientation of the WG actuator electrical plug in is facing the cylinder block for IS38

[@ivdubgti]

So yeah looks like i will be taking it to a shop for the install.. LOL

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

If you have access to a garage for a day it's reasonable

[@3randonv]

love it !! what headlights did u put on the gti ?

[@SheekTresSesenta]

Probably the best how to for the is38 swap

[@fcpeuro]

Appreciate the feedback Sheek we hope others find it as helpful!

[@candasm]

If this is not a difficult level, I don't know what is difficult :). But probably for experienced mechanic this is at least medium level difficulty job.

[@billmcdonald2436]

This is an excellent video. Very professional installation and no hip hop music in the background. I wish your shop was closer to me. You would definitely have my business.

[@LouieP1110]

I’m really loving these mqb videos! They are so well filmed and aren’t complicated at all

[@claudioagmfilho]

Recife - Brazil South America great video!!! You made it seem easy ...

[@shamarparchment4992]

Yo

[@armedferret]

looks way easier when the car doesn't have 130k miles and the oil/coolant lines are locked in place refusing to come out. anyone want a dismantled 2017 gti? it's yours cheap.

[@mas_v70]

Do you guys do international shipping at all??

[@bmuns6445]

I really appreciate u guys making these videos. When I got my MK6 gli I wasn’t sure what steps to take on upgrades. Now that my car has nearly 200k miles I will be getting a chain stretch kit from you in next month or two. But hoping that since 3/4 of the miles are highway miles I still have some life left after having to drop $2k to fix the chain.

[@fcpeuro]

Let us know if we can help with anything else B Muns, you know we've got you covered with the parts you need and that LRG! Goodluck with your MK6

[@deeeGLI]

If I have an IS38 from someone else.. do you guys sell the install kit separate with all the orings/gaskets?

[@timmykraemer8346]

What about a catless downpipe for the supporting mod?

[@rambow70]

What is the benefit of the Turbo smart diverter valves on these cars?

[@yourfastfc4361]

What was the original wastegate Actuator voltage before you took it out? I have the same one but on hybrid IS38 trying to set it.

[@ravenstylea2]

Great video! How long would it take a mechanic to install a Neuspeed front mount intercooler and this IS38??

[@WhataCoolnamelol]

i would say about 4hrs

[@GSX.YYY_]

@@WhataCoolnamelol Jesus Christ for a FMIC and a new turbo installed in 4 hours at break neck speed 💀

[@dumbeezy5480]

@@GSX.YYY_ Seriously lol. At least double if not 2.5x that.

[@rayyan6486]

Will this fit on the polo 1.8 gti?

[@moochiezpitt]

I was thinking of upgrading to this turbo. I have the stage 1 IE tune, is this compatible with this turbo? Also, I don't want to do the intercooler or a down pipe at install. Is that okay?

[@fcpeuro]

What the tune works with would definitely be something to ask the program writer, they would be able to confirm compatability

[@dumbeezy5480]

Just stay stage 1 lol.

[@Zakw17]

This just confirmed I am not capable of this install lmao

[@weavingshroud]

Same 😂 so much shit on the top of the engine.... All those wires and connectors, plastics... Can't be asked to do that...

[@Zakw17]

@@weavingshroud I just know I'm gonna put the fucker together, find 2 bolts, and be afraid to drive. I'll take a laptop apart and reassemble it but this is a NOPE.

[@TheMonster21000]

Audi B8 A4 k04 install next? 🤔

[@fcpeuro]

Maayyyybbbee Tommy

[@uly6102]

What kind or which software would I need for going is38 swapping from is20, great video thanks.

[@MblCJluTEJlb]

On a GTI you either need a protune (EQT, Sneaky Tuned, UN, 5150, etc.) or an off the shelf IS38 tune from Unitronic or APR.

[@uly6102]

@@MblCJluTEJlb what would you recommend ? Heard great stuff about EQT

[@MblCJluTEJlb]

@@uly6102 I ran Unitronic stage 1 and 2 for almost 50k. It wasn't bad. EQT is better in my opinion. More refined, and they keep improving their files, so you can buy updates for only $25 when they come out. Their off the shelf files are good, especially the latest v. 2.51 file. I run their stage 2 and also tried their e30 blend file. Both are good. I would imagine their protunes are even better. I'll be picking up an IS38 from FCP soon and protuning with EQT.

[@uly6102]

@@MblCJluTEJlb Cool! I plan to do mine as well sadly locally where I am at there is no e85 so all I can do is 93 , because of that I want to upgrade is38 but I’m sure with e85 that thing would move.

[@austinsmith2127]

do you need to bleed the coolant system if youve lost too much? if so how?

[@fcpeuro]

We cover that process in this video! kzbin.info/www/bejne/p53SiKqprbBgpNk

[@dalegreen9135]

Would I be ok to run the engine with the is38 without a tune just to get it to my tuner

[@Alexanderswereld]

would this fit on my 2014 mk7 gti? i see a lot of parts are only 2015 and up

[@peteflint1]

Hi, I have a 2016 TTS, I think my turbo is in its way out. Could I carry out a straight swap for this IS38 turbo without any mods?

[@jacobmcgrath1419]

With downpipes becoming hard to get/illegal for emissions testing would you still recommend this turbo on a stock downpipe with an upgraded intercooler and tune? I know from factory the golf R has the bigger turbo on a stock downpipe.

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

Doesn't IE still sell their downpipe?

[@GSX.YYY_]

There’s still plenty of downpipe to go around lol, especially 200 cell catted ones, but yes, given the proper tuning you could probably run it, but your not going to get nearly the potential you could out of it

[@jasongtivr6]

Does anyone know if the ihi20 waste gate fits the 38? When you look them up says they fit both. But I’m having problems getting it adjusted and a couple people saying the 20 won’t work on the 38 due to length. Thanks

[@bryyanrg4355]

Is the sound when starting the car at 46:49 normal?

[@vagcentral2252]

Do you need a tune? A shop is replacing my turbo and said I should put in a is38. I'll tune it in a couple months so was wondering if it will work?

[@ricardoarohenapagan9149]

Nice technique!

[@ramos94alex]

one update to mk5 2.0 tfsi conversion k03 to k04 (golf 6 r turbo) setup is the next videoblog.. pls 👏👏

[@PhilHoldings]

Is the best guide but boy these turbos a pain #### can I just confirm actuator voltage set and adaptation is while engine is running right

[@anaccount7923]

I heard the s3’s and a3’s have different internals, if that’s true how much power can I make on stock a3 internals?

[@tredfxman]

Just a hint for you guys not much on Turbos, but on Tuning: im owning a GTI Clubsport Stage 1 (seen on my channel) And just watched a video on a guy having Stage 2 and the mods for it. In the video he asked himself the question: Would he go Stage 2 Again? For normal street driving he said No. Its not worth it because of maintenance costs / failures. These are things, the Tuner Companys will never tell you. So sure, get a new Turbo if you need it. If u wana be on the safe side, dont get a hybrid. Then get your car to Stage 1. Select a FAMOUS / Big name Tuner (can recomend BSR). Make upgrades that may be worthwhile like DSG TCU tune that will save your clutch in the long run etc.. Racingline has an excellent one! Maby swap inlet pipes for better flow Etc... But stay away from Diverter Valves as theyv a tendency to break (at least the cheaper ones) 👍

[@Diminish12]

What? Who were you watching? Not me or anyone I know or found in the GTI forums, Will ever say don't go stage 2 cause of maintenance cost? What maintenance cost? Replacing Spark plugs every 10k? Seriously? You recommend changing Turbo only if you need to? And adding charge Pipes? Look up Golf R Destroy HellCat, on the track dude is Gapping Hellcats with stock charge pipes. Your post is very misinformed, I suggest people just Google search on the VW forums your will never see anyone saying For the street or daily don't go stage 2. The consensus is IS38 is a better Daily Driver then IS20.

[@nates2243]

Excellent job as always Corey!!

[@fcpeuro]

We call him Consistent Cory 😁

[@williammullener5742]

I have a 1.4 Jetta. Can I get an is20 does it bolt on directly, or would I need an adapter? Please help.

[@Onlineghost2ohm]

Are the B9 MLB 2.0T (2017+) engines/platform the same as the older 2016 2.0 EA888.3? Specifically the turbo options and supporting hardware to make 700+hp. Ie. The port-injection kits for the 8 injector set up that the old engines uses. (B8/B8.5) Only options I have found for B9/MLB is a hybrid IS38 475whp.28psi 94oct and hybrid IS20 @423whp 94oct using stock fuel system. Please tell me these (older options) are all compatible and there is a stage 3 TCU tune available. I would buy from you guys if there is something bigger than a hybrid IS38, including fueling options. FBO stage 2 (ECU/TCU) with stock turbo is where its at now. Thanks

[@ilovepsycku]

Is it possible to install this on a 2017 Volkswagen Jetta SE 1.4T? Looking to upgrade the turbo…Thank you!

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

No

[@eurownedmk71.88]

How much oil did you actually loose pulling the oil return line off? I just changed my oil a week ago but if i only lose under a qt i have the extra qt.

[@javierjimenez3627]

That's the problem with the German cars, everything is either long or expensive

[@bretgtimk7968]

Man i would like for you to do my install of the IS38+ turbo and plugs

[@916n0rcal]

Thinking of doing this to mine. Looks time consuming but really straightforward.

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

I'm doing mine currently. The bottom oil line, don't bother screwing with it at all on the turbo....just do it on the block. Make sure you get the right one... which is on the left side of the block when you're under the car. Also the top/front coolant line was a pain to get out and made removing the turbo very complex. If you physically tap the line left and right it will slowly work it's way out while you tug on it. If you do that, the swap should be fairly smooth.

[@reesei3565]

@@MeltingRubberZ28 bahaha doing mine right now and this oil return line on the block is my obstacle rn. i try again tomorrow 😭🙏

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

@@reesei3565 keep the faith! The top end gains are worth it!

[@iRitser]

I've undone the T30 at 08:35 for a muffler delete installation on my Audi S3 thinking it would give me better access (it didn't) and I can't seem to re-tighten it. Any ideas of why that won't tighten? I tried for half an hour and left it snug but it eventually came loose.

[@fcpeuro]

It has a captured nut that it threads into, it could be an issue with that captured nut or being able to thread into it -- perhaps just slightly out of alignment, so that the bolt can't "grab" onto the threads.

[@nathandickinson266]

How long did this take? I have a MK7.5 GTI that needs a turbo replacement. Dealership is doing it under warranty. Just curious.

[@Luis92fer]

Anyone know if a 2015 vw jetta mk6.5 1.8t will be compatible with this ?

[@speedman173]

I have a mk6 Jetta GLI what are my options for a new turbo? I’ve seen is38 on a lot of videos but I wanna keep my options open any recommendations?

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

K04 seems common

[@ikra]

what's the part number of the old IS38 actuator?

[@fcpeuro]

Our apologies as we do not have that lying around here anymore!

[@billynguyen710]

Excellent mechanic and DIY video!

[@Trystan46]

Does the upgrade make a big difference bud ????

[@ivandinchiiski8871]

do you have similar upgarade for audi a4 2.0 tfsi (b7)?

[@Ryskitt]

Damn no sound test :(

[@stevenyammine2908]

will this is38 add more power without a tune?

[@TheShajeel91]

Why is the Passat or Jetta not on the list ? Don't they share the same engine ?

[@shaher9594]

Is there a reason most models after 2018 aren't listed or is it assumed to be the same as 2018 models? Thanks!

[@jorgepalacios7654]

Would this work on a mk6 gli?

[@natedowg1988]

Is the process exactly same for Audi s3 8v and golf R Mk7??

[@fcpeuro]

Yes it is!

[@jamesk3565]

Long but awesome diy vid

[@fcpeuro]

Definitely not a short one, but with a pricey part and lengthy process we didn't want to cut any corners!

[@Thatoneguy-my9nt]

about how long did this take you and do you think its do able in my garage with jack stands

[@fcpeuro]

Hi there, we spent about a day and a half with filming. You could certainly do this job at home with jack stands!

[@sotltimmy270]

Is this the same engine on the 2014 VW Passat S 1.8t

[@pudermcgavin4462]

So I just went stage 2 with a full unitronit GTI exhaust, and a racing line 600r intake, elbow, and muffler delete! My clutch isn't happy now! But I asked unitronic what plugs I need or they recommend! Cuz also due just as a maintenance thing! What do you recommend?

[@pudermcgavin4462]

Have a stage 3 clutch on order as well!

[@pudermcgavin4462]

Also 1.8t

[@pudermcgavin4462]

They didn't reply

[@Glitchingskater]

What are the hex bolts used for

[@TalesWBCaetano]

Jetta GLI to? 2023

[@David-ju5ci]

5 star video great content all we need to see now is the software upgrade and results.

[@RSX250]

Did you guys drain the coolant?

[@caffina5882]

And I thought my saab was complicated to work on...

[@eppyz]

I agree with you I wouldn't want to do this job not saying I couldn't do it I just wouldn't want to do it. Most modern engines now are like this look under the hood of a new Honda Civic they're just as bad if it's the turbocharged model anyway the days of simplicity are long gone 🙄

[@corystevenson2041]

Where do you find your engine identification?

[@tomhunter91]

Times like these I'm glad I don't live in the north. All that rust

[@monteclark5191]

Hello, will your kit fit an 2013 VW CC 2.0T?

[@louispatiakas3339]

Unless your 2013 CC is a MQB platform, the answer is no.

[@nigelchambers1742]

Should do an oil change with new turbo otherwise running new turbo up with old crap oil 🤔

[@fcpeuro]

definitely good information to share!

[@MufasaJungle]

What a great detailled and high quality video, i dint even have a gti, just watching this while working for ideas on my 2.0 A3. Again, fantastic video!

[@kernplace37]

Incredible job lads

[@fcpeuro]

Thanks mate

[@shannonmcatee9610]

My next upgrade

[@yungboi2915]

This is look so easy to do it thank you

[@mr.adventure559]

Big reduction in exhaust piping at the end of the downpipe.

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

Not sure what one they had in the video but my unitronic is 3 pieces

[@thepubwiththeboys]

Can this fit an A4 B8.5?

[@rayj33]

Peanut gets a new turbo.

[@pkl714]

What brand is that flexible nut driver 👍🏾

[@rodneykahane4994]

it looks like CTA Tools 1051 Flex Nut Driver. its like the first thing that comes up on amazon when you search flexible nut driver

[@dddon513]

Great timing. My fcp IS38 is being delivered this week. This vid will be queued up on my garage laptop next weekend. IS38 + hpfp + e50 = I dunno... Maybe 400whp?

[@tf6437]

not even.. 400 crank prob

[@NapoleonDynamite69]

Probably 315whp

[@michealmclandress1572]

@70 I mean my mk7.5 is38 on a 91 octane map Is making 362hp to the wheels I don't see how it'd be that big of a stretch if he's running the ole corn with a hpfp if he's got a good tune going with the right supporting mods imho.

[@tf6437]

@@michealmclandress1572 You aren't making that much. We all want to believe we are but on an actual dyne and not numbers that tuners though out, you are making more like 320

[@MeltingRubberZ28]

@@tf6437 5150 E30 tune makes about 385WHP. Their E85 makes about 410WHP.

[@mikejames3263]

Is there enough length on the wastegate actuator wire to plug it in before bolting the turbo in place, rest it on the engine or something, and adjust the voltage prior to completing the installation? Is it okay to do that?

[@AutoFreak10]

So anal about everything and uses a Milwaukee to torque 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@weekendwarriorgaragedoityo1393]

The best upgrade for a gti owner is getting a civic .

[@eppyz]

Depends on which one. Most Civics now a days have a CVT which is complete garbage in the performance world. So that would leave you with a Civic SI or a Civic type R and both those cars are not very good looking cars so just on looks alone I wouldn't even consider one but from a performance standpoint a GTI will beat an SI all day long so that leaves the type R and those are tough to be found for under $40,000 and at that price point I would rather get a Golf R. So will have to dissagree with ya there😎

[@angeloj.6460]

Lol. I believe you mean downgrade

[@Ismael-995]

[@espinowrestling]

Shop wants to charge 8 hours ..that sound right?

[@fcpeuro]

It is certainly a big job, we would advice contacting a few places to compare for best results.

[@Zehnuss]

I'm doing one on a '17 R in the rust belt of new england and it's a fuckin nightmare 8hrs might not even cut it. Florida/Arizona/California only area that it won't suck to do