ECS News

Suspension components are one of the most overlooked areas of maintenance on a vehicle. With all the work that your suspension does, it is critical to keep each component functioning well for a compliant and safe ride. Eventually, all of the stock components will deteriorate, and leave you with a less than desirable driving experience. No matter how old your car is, it's easy to restore steering feel, suspension feel, and a regain a great ride. Three levels of Suspension Refresh Kits have been assembled by ECS to address the specific needs of your R32.

Automotive electrical work demands patience, knowledge, & above all else, the correct tools. European car owners oftentimes find themselves using ineffective, dangerous, & cumbersome methods when repairing or replacing wiring harness connectors. Schwaben's latest release, the European Car Electrical Terminal Tool Kit, gives enthusiasts the exact tools required for bullet connectors, common ABS sensor and power connectors, trailer light plugs, and more. Extend harness life, ensure proper diagnostic equipment connectivity, and preserve wiring harness life with this superb release.

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. The 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.

VF Engineering has a stellar lineup of expertly designed billet aluminum and polyurethane drivetrain mounts for the R32. The effects of a more solidly mounted transmission and engine are felt under all driving conditions - giving your vehicle a tighter, more connected feeling. VF Performance Dogbone Mounts reduce drivetrain movement and wheel hop while tightening shift response. The high-durometer polyurethane used for the VF Performance Transmission and Engine Mounts drastically reduces drivetrain movement for better power transfer and cleaner shifts.

Guesswork is expensive. It leads to costly repair errors that compromise vehicle safety. Talented pro-sumer or repair professional, you need accurate vehicle data and specifications. That's why ECS is happy to offer an entire inventory of Bentley manuals, a reliable, respected source of repair data for many European vehicles. Books or CDs, all are carefully edited and illustrated. A worthwhile investment.

Deep breathing is the critical to the stunning performance of the R32 VR6. Variable valve timing constantly matches camshaft timing to engine speed and load to make the R32 a growling beast. Take the opportunity to make a good thing better. Dump your bland black OE air box and bolt on a great looking, free-flowing air tunnel from Forge. The large diameter carbon fiber cylinder houses a MAF-friendly cotton fiber filter element. Connect your new intake kit with your choice of red, black, or blue silicone hose. Add it up: great looks, more power, and rich induction note. Why wait?

Neuspeed has been developing performance parts for European automobiles for decades, improving their catalog with each stellar release. Performance products for your VW MKIV R32 are now available through ECS tuning. The clever 6-Speed Short Shift Kit reduces front to back shift throw approx 40%, while the P-Flo Air Intake Kit adds a welcomed increase in intake airflo for more power and throttle response. Superb engine accessory upgrades and mounts are also offered. The Dogbone Mount Bushing Kit helps reduce wheel hop, while Underdrive Pullies decrease parasitic power loss.

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. These carts are offered, 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.

During suspension work, there are a few critical tools that make installation and removal infinitely more simple. In order to remove the retaining nut at the top of struts on European cars, a dedicated tool that fits the unique shape of the strut mount is required. Many enthusiasts will damage the strut nut using a wrench or inappropriate socket to accomplish the task, bringing their project to a halt. For professional quality work, Schwaben Specialty Tools has assembled a collection of premium Strut Nut Sockets in all the most popular sizes for your European car.

The MKIV R32 is especially responsive to airflow modifications because of its NA 6-cylinder engine. Small changes in air density can effect huge changes in engine power & smoothness. Increase air flow rate and density for your VW with the ECS engineered XAS Cold Air Intake System. The system uses a mandrel bent 70mm (3.0") diameter aluminum pipe, completely replacing the restrictive OE air box and intake snorkel. Because air is drawn primarily from outside the engine bay, air temperatures are 30-60°F cooler, increasing cylinder pressure for reliable power gains.

Milltek's Volkswagen offerings exude the engineering rigor and attention to detail that come from experience developing prototype exhaust designs in highly demanding circumstances for race teams throughout the world. Every single Milltek product offering is designed and manufactured in-house in the UK. Milltek tests each system on their own dynometer through many miles of subjective analysis, fine tuning each component of each system for its specific application.

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. Comes with a complete installation kit, including plate, weights, bolts, washers, and shift pin.

The sophisticated Haldex all-wheel drive system makes your MKV R32 a road-hugging marvel that effortlessly devours miles of twisting road. This advanced system, however, requires periodic attention. Don't risk poor performance and premature, expensive repairs. Get the filter and approved lubricant you need to perform a complete Haldex 40,000-mile maintenance. Fluids and filters are available individually or as part of a convenient kit that includes everything you need. ECS also offers differential fluid options for the most complete project.

Sale is now over. With tax returns and the spring season right around the corner, we wanted to thank you for all of the hard work that you have put in. We have selected handfuls of products to feature and reduced their price for this one time sale. Deals like this go quick, so act soon or risk missing out. Limited time, limited stock, huge savings. Sale Ends February 22, 2016

Want to do something bold? Bodacious, even? Check out this line of 3M Scotchprint films. Add texture and style to interior and exterior surfaces by applying these durable adhesive backed films to body panels or trim. Want variety? Channel Darth Vader with gloss black or carbon fiber, or go sci-fi-starship with brushed aluminum. Buy rolls five feet wide in lengths from one to 20 feet. Hi-tech look. Low tech installation. User friendly and easy to apply using simple tools, 3M 1080 film lets anyone get professional results on the first try.

Ever tried removing a radio trim bezel with a screwdriver or metal putty knife? Ugly. Ineffective. Metal prying tools gouge, scratch, and crack expensive interior parts adding needless cost and aggravation to any repair or accessory installation requiring trim panel removal. Stop the madness. Invest in one of our affordable trim removal kits. Large kit or small, our trim removal tools are made of tough, non-marring molded plastic, brightly colored so you won't leave them behind when the job is done. Do it right. Do it faster. Schwaben.

Changing your engine oil and filter regularly are a must to ensure a long life for your R32. ECS Tuning has made it easy for you to keep your engine running smooth with Premium Oil Service Kits. While you're at it, consider replacing your stock fragile plastic oil filter housing with a durable 6061-T6 billet aluminum housing from ECS Tuning. These Premium Oil Service Kits include everything you will need to perform an oil service on your R32.

The DICE MediaBridge takes the hassle and aggravation out of playing your favorite audio source through your VW MKIV R32 Monsoon sound system. The DICE Media Bridge module turns your car stereo into a master control for USB storage drives, IPhone, iPod, or any audio device that can be plugged into the standard audio port. The unit supplies high-fidelity audio to meet the demands of even the most discerning audiophile.

You won't believe the difference an LED lighting package makes in your car until you see it with your own eyes. LED illumination is a far brighter and friendlier light, crisp and clean, especially when compared to the dingy yellow glow from conventional filament style bulbs. Now you can do a complete LED conversion using our Ziza LED Interior Lighting Kit. It contains all the LEDs needed for a total lighting upgrade. No need for guesswork or complicated ordering of individual bulbs.

Developed by the most distinguished experts of this industry, the VAG Professional Scan Tool is one of the most powerful aftermarket tools available for VW/AUDI vehicles. Delivering OE-level diagnostic power, the Foxwell Scanner requests and records live sensor data, provides live data graphing, reads and clear codes, turns off MILs and supports all 10 OBD II test modes. Owning a Foxwell Scan Tool separates you from the average car enthusiast, empowering you with manufacturer-level diagnostic and analytic capabilities.

We've all found ourselves using highly "creative" methods for separating old parts in the midst of an intense project. Some methods do work - usually at the expense of personal injury and a few broken or damaged parts. The new Remover Tools from Schwaben leave your knuckles and expensive parts intact. The new Exhaust Hanger Removal Tool has a slim profile for work in tight areas, easily pulling off hangers from behind. Steering and Suspension Ball Joint Separators offer a combined 12mm to 80mm jaw opening range. New rugged 3/8” drive Schwaben E-Socket Sets are also available.

Your sophisticated Haldex all wheel drive system makes your MKIV R32 a road hugging marvel that devours miles of twisting road effortlessly. The car needs periodic attention, of course. Don't risk poor performance and premature, expensive repairs. Get the tools, filter, and approved lubricant you need to perform a complete Haldex maintenance service at the recommended 40,000 mile intervals. Fluids. Filters. Special tool. Available individually or as part of a handy kit with everything you need. We also carry differential fluid so you can change it at the same time.

The MK5 R32 has become one of the most popular Volkswagens to upgrade, tune, and personalize. With a plethora of options available, how do you choose what to do next? Each of the following parts have become extremely popular by fixing, fine tuning, or enhancing the performance and appearance of your VW. Pick one as a weekend project. Call a pal and bolt one on.

The factory shifter cable bracket system fitted to the MKIV R32 has been identified as a source of sloppy shifts, missed gears, bracket and bushing failure, and even transmission failure. Extended exposure to heat causes the plastic OE shifter cable bracket to flex and eventually break. APR has designed a Solid Shifter Cable Bracket to permanently resolve this factory design oversight. Utilizing CNC-machined solid mounts to eliminate the failure-prone rubber bushings, and cast 304 stainless steel to replace the flexible plastic bracket, this APR upgrade is the final solution.

Browsing through our world-class parts catalog can be overwhelming - with such a deep well of heart-pounding performance additions, convenient tools and accessories, and limitless OEM replacement parts, you'll need a way to control your lustful thoughts this Valentine's Day. ECS helps you cool off with the Wish List tool - setup a vehicle make and model, and click on the "Heart" logo next to any product that catches your eye. And if you're looking to spice things up this holiday with a thoughtful gift, $10-$100 ECS gift cards will make your sweetheart's wishes come true.

Schwaben Specialty Tools has released three new products that eliminate the pains and inconveniences associated with automotive repairs and installations. Get off the ground and move around with the Six Wheel Creeper - ruggedly designed to reliably keep your body off the ground while working underneath your Euro. The Schwaben LED Under Hood Shop Light features 120 LEDs & a polycarbonate transparent lens that instantly illuminates every crevice of your engine bay. The Rolling Creeper Seat and Tray keeps your body at an ideal height while keeping your tools close at hand.

Pop-in-place good looks. Unlike many appearance upgrades that require expensive installation and color matching, race inspired carbon fiber mirror covers from ECS Tuning are an easy install. No special fitting. No hassles. Pop the old one's out, pop these on and get going. This fast and easy styling statement complements any color R32. Let carbon fiber mirror covers from ECS reflect your good taste.

One area of the MKIV R32 that receives excessive scuffing and scratching is the steering column cover. The area around the ignition cylinder in particular usually shows the age of the vehicle more clearly than any other part. The kit consists of all Genuine VW parts, ensuring exceptional fitment, bringing a showroom-new appearance to this oft-neglected area of your car.

Use your Volkswagen MKV or MKVI on the track? You shouldn't be stuck with those terrible factory tow hooks that are about as stylish as an old hat. The new replacement tow hooks from ECS Tuning are a more stylish way to achieve that aggressive, track-ready appearance. The hooks feature polished surfaces and thread easily into any stock tow hood location. Once in place, your Volkswagen will have a more rugged, professional appearance, thanks to expert engineering and design by ECS Tuning.

When it comes to the cooling system, we're led to only think of failure with overheating in the warmer months of the year. On the other hand, coolant prevents freezing within its system during the colder months, and there are still many that are unequipped to service their system properly. Don't get left in the cold. Maintain your cooling system the right way and keep it fully functional with these cooling system tools.