ECS News

If there's one job on your Audi that won't tolerate shortcuts or mistakes, it's a timing belt replacement. There are no mulligans, no do-overs to be had. Get it right the first time, or pay. We know what it takes to do this job. That's why our Ultimate timing belt kits include the things you need to do a trouble-free, lasting t-belt service: premium timing belt plus tensioners, rollers, seals, water pump and thermostat. We even made an online tutorial PDF to show you how.

Features of convenience and versatility define this latest group of industry-standard hand tools from Schwaben, the European specialty tool experts. The 24-inch long, flexible Locking Hose Clamp Pliers make removing metal or plastic self-tightening hose clamps an infinitely more simple and quick task. For oil & fuel filter removal, Schwaben's 4-position adjustable Swivel Jaw Filter Wrench Pliers feature Sure-Grip teeth to provide the right amount of clamping force for the job. The superb 12-piece Metric Socket Set completes this latest new and exciting Schwaben product release.

If you're planning on incorporating any vacuum-assisted accessories into your 8P A3 2.0T, you will need a reliable pressure reading from your engine. ECS engineers have again arrived at a simple, durable, and tasteful billet aluminum piece to suit your needs. The ECS Boost Tap clips in between your PCV hose and intake manifold, giving you up to two inlets for your creative use. The kit includes all hardware and a set screw for blocking off the unused inlet when only one vacuum port is required for a particular application.

Schwaben's reputation for producing highly reliable, finely crafted specialty tools is growing rapidly - consumers are beginning to see the extraordinary value behind the Schwaben name. Nowhere is the dependability and security associated with the Schwaben name more important than with their latest 3-Ton Aluminum Jack Stands. The all-aluminum stands feature heavy-duty flanged bases for exceptional stability, while the over-engineered .584" diameter load pin rigidly secures the post in six different positions for convenience and peace of mind.

Massive rotors, multiple-piston brakes, and advanced pads are glamorous, eye-catching upgrades to your vehicle. But experienced enthusiasts know that all that stopping power relies on adequately bled brake lines. Your brake fluid is incompressible, like a metal; but air is compressible, so ridding your lines of this gas is imperative for fully realized braking power and response. ECS has an array of solutions to tighten up your braking system, including a Power Brake Bleeder, multiple synthetic Brake Fluid options, and a premium Schwaben Brake Bleeder Wrench.

The average home mechanic might not even realize the benefit of having a sturdy, hand-height shelf to place tools on in the heat of a project. Instead of carelessly leaving tools on the ground or mixed up in a pile, Schwaben Service Carts bring the professionalism of a reliable mechanic's cart to your own garage. Three series of carts are offered, each featuring a stunning, durable high-gloss powder-coated finish, chrome plated steel handles, and large 4" casters. Heavy-duty Deluxe units are also available, with a third product adding a locking top lid and drawer.

The Audi 8P A3 features highly individualized design elements that make successfully complementing the vehicle with aftermarket wheels a serious challenge. Alzor Style 010 wheels features a split-spoke mesh design that accentuates rather than distracts from the Audi's natural steel musculature. Silver or Gold, staggered and square sets of four 18" wheels are available in an assortment of widths and offsets.

Inject a healthy dose of Porsche DNA into your Audi with one of our famous Big Brake Kits. Available in red, blue, or black, our super stopper packages have an eye-popping list of premium components, including massive Porsche Cayenne six-piston calipers and two-piece rotors, drilled and slotted for improved performance and quicker cooling. Unlike copycat BBKs, our Big Brake Kits include all the incidentals you need for a complete, lasting installation: hardware, brake fluid, performance pads, wear sensors, and Exact-Fit brake lines.

Audi 8P A3 2.0T owners are becoming more familiar with the camshaft/cam follower failure issue that has plagued numerous VW/Audi models for years. The current wisdom dictates that the most effective, longest lasting, and economical solution to this irritating and costly design flaw is to replace the softer factory camshaft, failure-prone cam follower, & related gaskets/hardware in a single servicing. ECS has assembled two kits ideal for this approach. Stage 1 kits include the new camshaft, cam follower, gaskets and hardware, while Stage 2 kits add a new high-pressure fuel pump.

There are tools that any serious technician will regard as essential to their work - tools that make so many projects faster and simpler that access to a quality set is critical. Schwaben Specialty Tools recognized the need for better designed, more fully-featured puller tool kits; this variety of tool is so frequently used across such a wide variety of projects, mechanics deserve the best engineered product possible. Schwaben Pry Bar and Twin-Arm Puller Kits are highly adjustable, exceptionally durable sets of some of the most versatile tools in any home or professional garage.

The problem is widespread and chronic: cam followers for the high pressure fuel pump in FSI engines are prone to wear. Savvy FSI owners periodically pull the pump and check the follower to avoid costly fuel pump and camshaft damage. Symptoms of advanced cam follower-itis include loss of power, rough running, and an illuminated check engine light. To help you understand and mitigate the problem, we've put together a photo tutorial that demonstrates how to inspect and replace your cam follower. Use it with our handy repair kit to keep your FSI running strong.

An excellent way to enhance any feature of a performance car is to borrow more advanced technology made by the same manufacturer for a similar high-end model. ECS now offers the European Audi S3 Intercooler for your North American Audi 8P A3 2.0T. Audi's own team of performance specialists has designed this part, tested to be ~30% more efficient than the already efficient stock unit. The lower intake air temperatures & more effective cooling mean better power delivery and extended engine life. Featuring an all-aluminum core and end tanks, this OEM part is one killer addition.

The primary appeal of new wheels is in the new, shiny appearance they offer. The majority of the time, a different style, size, or color isn't really the ultimate goal. With such a deep catalog of staggeringly effective wheel cleaning and restoration products from specialists Sonax and Chemical Guys, getting what you really want from your wheel setup is fast and easy - and it's all available now from ECS. Acid-free and pH balanced rim and wheel cleaners effortlessly dissolve grease, brake dust and dirt, while safely preserving your wheel's finish.

The belly pans provided for modern Volkswagens have always appeared to be under-engineered, out of place, cost-cutting parts. Many enthusiasts have chosen to run their cars without this protective cover entirely. This decision, however, ignores the unfortunate reality that the belly pan protects several critical engine and drivetrain components. ECS has a much more sensible solution – The Street Shield Skid Plate features corrosion resistant, air-ventilated, 3/16” thick 5052 aluminum, with black zinc-coated steel hardware, offering complete engine undercarriage protection.

Keeping up with your DSG fluid maintenance is now easier than ever with DSG Transmission Service Kits! Our convenient kits include everything needed to service your dual clutch gearbox. Looking to do the work yourself? To make the service easier, don't forget to grab the Schwaben DSG fluid service tool!

When the 2.0T engine was introduced, the rubber diaphragm in the original diverter valve failed regularly, even at stock boost levels. The improved “D” diverter valve has a piston valve design that eliminates the original, failure-prone rubber diaphragm. Spend more time driving, less time fixing!

Schwaben products are characterized by simple, clever designs. Their wheel storage solutions may be the best examples of these qualities. The Schwaben Wheel Tree holds up to 275lbs and allows you to safely stack your wheels without the risk of scuffing and scratching. Convenient locking casters allow you to easily move the whole set anywhere in your garage or shop at one time. And when saving floor space is the highest priority, the Schwaben Wall-Mounted Wheel Rack allows you to securely store up to four 11½" wide wheels and tires against the wall, away from your work space.

Mount up. Add an ECS Tuning dogbone mount stiffener and tighten the tranny-to-chassis connection. Reduce drivetrain movement--especially when your right foot is all the way down--with this high-durometer polyurethane insert, available in red or black. This complete kit installs easily to add muscle to your flabby OE pendulum mount. No need to remove the old mount; just insert the stiffener and fasten it to the chassis with the stretch bolt and large washer included in the kit. Our step-by-step photo tutorial shows you how to harness your horses for improved performance.

The ECS Tuning 6-speed short shift kit shortens shift throws to let you grab the next gear faster. Reduce fore and aft movement needed to engage gears by 49, 28, or 7 percent--or leave it stock. Then do something you can't do with other shift kits: pick the exact shifter feel that suits your preference. The kit includes five balance weights to let you dial in a feel that matches your new, reduced throws. Heavy cast shift arm comes with a complete installation kit, including plate, weights, bolts, washers, and shift pin. Order now and we'll ship yours free.

Great recipes start with great ingredients. That's why you'll love the carefully prepared coilover offerings from ST. Start with high grade steel housings, galvanized for rust protection. Add lightweight, high strength springs with composite spring perch and cap, and chrome plated hardened shaft. XTS coilover offer adjustablility and included camber plates. Serve hot with a five year warranty and you have a savory blend of quality, performance, and dependability that's sure to satisfy discriminating tastes.

Having the right tools for the job at hand always makes your project much easier. The Schwaben VAG Connector Removal Tool is an Audi/VW/Porsche owner's best friend. The tool fits directly on the push & pull style VAG connector and gives just the perfect amount of leverage to release the connector and not break the tab. This style connector is often found on mass air flow (MAF) sensor, coil packs, headlights/fog lights, level sensors, and countless other parts. A large ergonomic ball that fits into your palm is also fitted on the end of the tool for extra grip.

Your Audi's generator, fans, water pumps and AC compressors all rely on accessory drive belts to do their job. Over time, cracking, glazing, and squeaking occur; for these reasons, replacing your drive belts before they crack or break is a highly prudent investment. Additionally, If the accessory belt snaps constantly, or is sloppy and loose in your vehicle, the only solution is a new tensioner. The ECS-assembled kit comes with everything you need to refresh your whole drive belt system, including belts, tensioner, and hardware.

Quit fussing with wood blocks, ramps, and the like with the Schwaben Low Boy floor jack. The Low Boy is low-profile, allowing you to sneak it under the ground-hugging rockers on your lowered car. Constructed of lightweight aluminum, this floor jack features a front central roller for increased ease of use and maneuverability. If you work on your car, you'll be doing some lifting. Get the right equipment with the Schwaben Low Boy floor jack, a great compliment to the other Schwaben tools in your arsenal. Atta' Boy.

A distinct feature of the German automotive ideology is the preservation of austerity and simplicity alongside radical performance innovations. Visual indications of excesses in power and handling are few and subtle. The R treatment of the A3 exterior includes the patented widebody stance, engorged air intakes, and, most discreetly, a sharper mesh grille. Transfer your old Audi rings to the ECS RS Mesh Style Grille, a direct replacement for the stock A3 unit. The unmistakable R look immediately brings your Audi to another level, telling a more aggressive visual story

Are you looking to go low and trying not to break the bank at the same time? If so, JOM has a designed this coilover kit just for you. This budget-minded coilover system comes with a German TUV quality approval and a one year limited warranty. Ride height is 100% adjustable and the shock damping is set at a fixed rate with ride quality kept in mind. On most applications, these coilovers will lower your vehicle from 30mm on the highest setting, to just over 90mm on the lowest setting.

Fresh coolant is paramount to safe & reliable engine operation. Unfortunately, the process of bleeding air out of your cooling system during a coolant refresh is tedious and therefore often neglected. ECS offers a highly convenient solution to the tedium & frustration associated with a coolant servicing – the Schwaben Coolant Evacuation Kit. The unique kit resolves several common cooling system issues: - No heat, overheating, or erratic temperature gauge readings after a cooling system service - Problems with coolant uptake or circulation - Cooling system leaks

Why a strut nut socket? To secure shocks and struts to their mounts, the retaining nut must be torqued to its proper specification with the use of a torque wrench. Strut nut sockets allow for the use of an Allen wrench to hold the damper shaft while utilizing a torque wrench on the socket to achieve proper torque. Schwaben, a company known for exceptionally crafted specialty tools, now offers 18mm, 19mm, 21mm, 22mm, and 24mm Strut Nut Sockets for your own suspension project. A superb addition to any home mechanic's tool arsenal, this latest Schwaben release is built to last.

Whenever working on your car's interior or disassembling interior or trunk components to access exterior body parts, it's not uncommon to break or lose various fasteners and clips. Reinstallation becomes a hack job, with interior panels and linings hanging unsecured. ECS now offers a single kit including the most common clips and fasteners used on your Audi, allowing you to restore unsecured parts to factory - and better prepare for your next project.

For years, ECS Tuning has been your trusted source for original, aftermarket, and performance parts for your European car. Our team of enthusiasts have worked hard to build the best catalog in the industry, providing you with the knowledge and expertise to keep your car looking, sounding, and performing great year after year.

The specialty tool experts at Schwaben have released a series of superbly engineered, exceptionally reliable car ramps, ramp extensions, wheel stands, & wheel chocks - now available from ECS tuning. 30" to 67" Low Profile Car Ramps are specially made to accommodate vehicles with low bumper clearance, eliminating the risk of body damage & sliding ramps. Schwaben Wheel Stands feature a cradled wheel support for superior stability compared to jack stands, supporting up to 3000 lbs. And when lifting your vehicle or placing it on an incline, Wheel Chocks are a wise investment.