pete child

Can anyone tell me whether it is illegal to change the chip for A4 1.8t in Boston. MA?<br>Also how exactly can I change the chip? Do I have to sent the car to some particular whork shop or can I just order a chip and do it some where else?<p>thankyou so much

Zsolt

I guess chips must pass an emission test so that they can be 48, 49, or 50 state certified. Other than that, they are clean, I think. BTW, I am sure they pass emissions.<p>On your other questions see the archives. It depends on manufacturer.

stevebrown

For aftermarket equipment that affects engine performance on cars that are "affected by emissions laws" (ours for sure are...each state decides how far back cars must be in compliance, i believe) must meet certain requirements.<p>Last I looked, there is 48, 49, and 50state legal equipment, but most inspection stations only understand CARB-EO numbers (some stations don't even understand those, tho'...if not go to another).<p>If a piece of equipment has a CARB (California Air Resources Board) - EO (Exemption Order) number, then it's legal for use in California. Most states (maybe all), will accept this as proof that it is legal for on-road use. <p>The problem: From what I have heard from some aftermarket companies, it is an expensive and involved process to get your stuff a CARB-EO. I personally have no idea what a 48 or 49 state legal piece of equipment would have in the way of documentation to prove it to an inspector. <p>Someone here on the board posted that NONE of the chips for the 30V or 1.8T are CARB-EO'd. Meaning, they are for off-road use only.<p>Last point: the chances of an inspection station realizing you have a chip or upgraded turbo is MINISCULE or NON-EXISTANT. Heck, even throwing a turbo or supercharger on a 30V probably wouldn't be noticed around here (Houston)...how many A4 engine bays do they see? Not many.<p>So to answer the initial question. Yes, it is likely that chipping a 1.8T is not legal for street use. <p>DISCLAIMER: I am in no way providing this as legal advice; it is for informational purposes only. I do not advocate or condone ANY use of ANY aftermarket equipment in ANY way.<p>steve<p>

pdw

In MA, all they do is a smog check at idle. This could change in the future as I've heard rumors of dyno tests. Quattros may be exempt from this if they only have a two wheel dyno.<p>As far as installing the chip, it's easy. just take the engine computer out which is under the base of the windshield, behind the 2nd firewall. Then, just send the computer to whomever you're buying the chip from. I'd be happy to help you if you need it(I live near Boston, just email me).<p>I watched the guy from Wetteraur do it to my car at the spring NE A4 event.

Earl Warren

I believe that both the Hoppen and TAP ECU upgrades have been certified as compliant with CARB and EPA filings - check their web site. Ned Ritchie at Intended Acceleration in WA. also alwasy had his turbo upgrade kits certified.