DSG/TCU Tuning

The DSG has a Transmission Control Unit similar to the Engine Control Unit that controls the operation of the transmission. The TCU and ECU talk to each to ensure the correct gear is selected under the current driving conditions and certain outputs like actual engine torque are cross referenced between the TCU and ECU to keep the system in check.

Its well established that the ECU Tune is the first part carried out in increasing engine performance however there comes a point where the TCU’s internal torque limit is reached at which point the ECU intervenes and safety measures are put in place to reduce torque, typically boost is limited amongst other parameters.

One of the primary functions of a DSG/TCU tune is to allow more torque to be transferred through the Engine and Transmission which results in more power and torque throughout the entire rev range (depending on vehicle model), there is also many other functions that can be modified to improve the overall driving experience.

Below is an example of how a DSG tune hugely improved midrange power and torque in a DSG VW Scirocco R. Results vary from model to model.

We offer 3 different TCU/DSG calibrations with some additional options to accommodate individual requirements.

Stage 1 DSG Tune

This DSG tune is suitable for most Stage 1 and Stage 2 ECU Tunes. Whilst its not essential we do recommended it for Stage 2 ECU tunes. Suited for people who don’t have any issues with the gearshift points.

Torque limits increase matched to ECU outputs
Increased maximum RPM limit/shift point
Faster gear shift times

Stage 2 DSG Tune

This DSG tune is suitable for most Stage 1 and Stage 2 ECU Tunes. Whilst its not essential we do recommended it for Stage 2 ECU tunes. Suited for people who would like the gear changes a little more aggressive (not changing up so quickly)

Torque limits increase matched to ECU outputs
Increased maximum RPM limit/shift point
Faster gear shift times
Optimized gearshift RPM points in Drive and Sport mode(for example, doesn’t change to into 6^th at 50km/h, we make drive mode more driveable like you were driving a manual transmission whilst cruising. Sport mode sometimes feels like it never changes gears so we actually reduce the point at where it shifts to make it more driver friendly)
Customized launch control – 3600,3800,4000,4200,4400,4600rpm

Stage 3 DSG Tune

This DSG tune is best suited for vehicles with a Stage 2/2.5/3 tune pushing torque higher than regular Stage 2 levels however is recommended at any stage. We will advise if this is best for your vehicle.

Torque limits increase matched to ECU outputs
Increased maximum RPM limit/shift point
Faster gear shift times
Optimized gearshift RPM points in Drive and Sport mode(for example, doesn’t change to into 6^th at 50km/h, we make drive mode more driveable like you were driving a manual transmission whilst cruising. Sport mode sometimes feels like it never changes gears so we actually reduce the point at where it shifts to make it more driver friendly)
Customized launch control – 3600,3800,4000,4200,4400,4600rpm & also 3 step Launch option (launch from 3 preset RPM points which is determined by pedal position upon launch.
Increased clutch clamping pressure. Up to 18 bar depdending on torque output. Prevents clutch slip and improves clutch longevity.

A note from Tarmac. There is a misconception regarding how some vehicles shift in D/Drive mode. D mode is actually labelled as Economy mode in factory documentation and is designed to be as fuel efficient as possible. Many people believe the shift points need to changed to adapt to their driving style whereas we believe in a lot of cases the individual needs to adapt to the vehicle instead. Unfortunately every single person drives differently and has their own opinion on where and when the transmission should change gears therefore making it impossible for us to accommodate everyone exactly. Our optimized Drive & Sport mode shifting is what we believe suits everyone on average (this can be customised) Remember there is also Sport and Manual override. The steering wheel paddles can be used at anytime in D or S mode to change up or down gears, the gearbox will revert back to its currently selected mode within 20 seconds (can vary)