Tuning the Jetta A5 Best Mods.

"Not a Golf with a Boot, the Jetta A5 is an all new package!"

So let's talk Jetta mods and upgrades. A site visitor emailed us for more information on the Jetta and how to tune it up and modify it, so we've created an article to take you through what we feel are the main modifications that we rate and are the best parts you can do to this engine.

Here we review Jetta tuning and outline the ultimate modifications for it. VW Jetta really good project engines and with a few sensible tuning enhancements like a remap, turbo upgrades and camshafts you will noticeably improve your driving enjoyment.

The A5 Jetta was sold between 2005 and 2010 it's forbears were the Jetta A3 Jetta A4 (Bora) and it was succeeded by the A6 Jetta.

Then we shall look at the tuning options and best performance parts for your project and direct you to our detailed engine tuning guides.

Can you tune a Jetta A5?

Yes there are many parts for it, since is shares it's platform with other VAG group cars, so we'll discuss your tuning mods and best options in this article.

Please watch our video introduction to VW Tuning.

Best Jetta A5 Engines

The 2.0 TFSi engine that followed is a genuine beast of an engine and a worthy successor to the 1.8T, with a wealth of options. You can produce a lot of power with only a tune/remap and a few minor modifications.

You should attempt to retain as much low-end torque as possible and aim for a wide power band over the rpm range rather than a concentrated top-end boost. Numerous members of our community have attained power ratings in excess of 200bhp with a simple ECU tune/remap that had no adverse effects.

Additionally, the Jetta A5 range included the V6 4motion and V6 R32 engines, which produced 204 and 240 BHP, respectively.

The Jetta A5 has a well-deserved reputation for being a trustworthy car with a high resale value.

When acquiring one, insist it has a detailed & full service history, since oil changes are essential, especially on turbocharged models.

The TDI engines have progressed greatly over the years, and the 2.0 TDI engines in the Jetta A5 have one of the best efficiency to power ratios available in a current production engine.

While many regard the 1.9 TDi as Volkswagen's finest diesel engine, following 2.0TDi engines equipped with modern fuel injection technology have raised the bar (sorry for the horrible pun!) and make wonderful projects.

With a remap, power may be raised to 220 BHP (depending on the base specification) while maintaining a fuel economy of 50+ MPG. You can get power estimates of about 300bhp with a turbo change, but traction will be an issue at these levels.

Although the mk5 Jetta A5 seems to be smaller than its predecessor, it really has a slightly larger wheelbase. The wider hips seem to reduce the vehicle's size, yet they considerably improve handling. Much of the criticism levelled against the predecessor of the Jetta A5 GTI, the mk IV, has been rectified.

What are the best Jetta A5 engines from 2009?

2009: The 2.0-liter engine and 6-speed automatic transmission were replaced with a smaller, more powerful, and fuel-efficient 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and 6-speed DSG transmission. Both units are superb, but the 2.0 TDi is also a fantastic unit offering both power and fuel economy.

The newer 1.4 TFSi & European Twincharger version makes the Jetta go faster because it is lighter and has the same power as the 2.0.

Europe had a lot of interesting engines for the A5 Jetta. There are a lot of new-generation Fuel Stratified Injection (FSI) engines that can be used in the car, too. and plenty of swaps are possible.

It can also be bought in that market with an engine called the "Twincharger," which has more power and can be quite impressively tuned.

Does the Jetta have good handling?

A good way to describe the ride comfort is to say that it's firm and well-controlled, but not always as forgiving as the previous generation of cars.

The MacPherson Strut suspension in the front kept the car from rolling too much because it was quick and precise to steer.

Jetta A5 equipment and interior space.

The fifth generation of the Volkswagen Jetta and the successor of the Volkswagen Bora. As a result, the A5 Jetta is 170 millimetres (6.7 in) longer and 30 millimetres (1.2 in) wider than the previous model. It also has a 70 millimetres (2.8 in) longer wheelbase than the previous model.

The amount of space inside has gone up from 2.46 cubic metres (87 cu ft) to 2.58 cubic metres (91 cu ft). In the fourth generation, rear legroom was increased by 65 millimetres (2.6 in) over the third generation.

The luggage compartment can hold up to 453 litres (16 cu ft). The first time a Jetta had a multi-link independent rear suspension, this is a significant advancement.

What are the best tuning modifications for the Jetta A5?

Please watch our video which covers the 5 principles of tuning your car. Be sure to keep up with our latest YouTube content and subscribe.

Best Engine Mods for your Jetta A5

1. Engine Tunes - engine tuning/remapping provides the most advantage in terms of cost savings,  aftermarket ECUs, and piggyback ECUs are all alternatives.
2. Upgrades to turbochargers - forced induction is the most efficient approach to increase air supply, allowing you to burn more fuel and make more power. It is one of the most costly upgrades but provides the best gains.
3. Fast road cams are are often the best upgrade for an engine, but they must be fitted by someone who knows what they are doing and they are not always easy to source but you might find a local firm to regrind a stock camshaft.
4. Intake and Exhaust - Note that on their own these mods will NOT ADD POWER in most cases, but they can help enhance power after other mods by removing the restriction.
5. Suspension Mods - improving the overly firm handling on the Jetta A5 would be a top recommendation. A decent set of coilovers will really help.
6. Brake Upgrades - some larger discs and at the very least better pads will dramatically improve your Jettas stopping power.

Jetta A5 Tuning Stages

Typical stage 1 mods often include: Panel air filter, Sports exhaust, Alloy wheels, Lighter flywheel, Engine Tunes/Remapping, Suspension upgrade (drop 30-40mm).

Typical stage 2 mods often include: Power/Sport clutch, fuel pump upgrades, Fast road cam, high flow fuel injector, Ported and polished head.

Typical stage 3 mods often include: Engine balancing, Internal engine upgrades (pistons/head/valves), Adding or upgrading forced induction (turbo/supercharger), Sports gearbox, Competition cam.

A new Jetta A5 based on the previous platform is an evolution rather than a revolution, but why mess with a winning formula?

We now have several platform upgrades, and the Jetta A5 continues to be an excellent platform for tuning projects, owing to the numerous aftermarket tuning providers.

Jetta A5 Engines

Jetta A5 Gasolene Engines

• 1.6 2005–2010 BSE/BSF
  75 kW (101 hp; 102 PS) @5,600 rpm 148 N⋅m (109 lb⋅ft) @3,800 rpm
• 1.6 FSI 2005–2007 BLF
  85 kW (114 hp; 116 PS) @6,000 rpm 155 Nm (114 lbft) @4,000 rpm
• 1.4 TSI 2007–2010 CAXA
  90 kW (121 hp; 122 PS) @5,000 rpm 200 Nm (148 lbft) @1,500–4,000 rpm
• 1.4 TSI 2006–2008 BMY
  103 kW (138 hp; 140 PS) @5,600 rpm 220 Nm (162 lbft) @1,500–4,000 rpm
• 2.0 FSI 2005–2010 BLR/BVY
  110 kW (148 hp; 150 PS) @6,000 rpm 200 Nm (148 lbft) @3,500 rpm
• 2.5 2005–2007 BGP/BGQ/BPR/BPS
  110 kW (148 hp; 150 PS) @5,000 rpm 228 Nm (168 lbft) @3,750 rpm
• 1.4 TSI 2008–2010 CAVD
  118 kW (158 hp; 160 PS) @5,800 rpm 240 Nm (177 lbft) @1,500–4,500 rpm
• 1.4 TSI 2006–2008 BLG
  125 kW (168 hp; 170 PS) @6,000 rpm 240 Nm (177 lbft) @1,500–4,750 rpm
• 2.5 2008–2010 CBT/CBU
  125 kW (168 hp; 170 PS) @5,700 rpm 240 Nm (177 lbft) @4,250 rpm
• 2.0 TFSI 2005–2008 BWA
  147 kW (197 hp; 200 PS) @5,100–6,000 rpm 280 Nm (207 lbft) @1,800–5,000 rpm
• 2.0 TSI 2008–2010 CAWB
  147 kW (197 hp; 200 PS) @5,100–6,000 rpm 280 Nm (207 lbft) @1,700–5,000 rpm

Jetta A5 Diesel engines

• 1.6 TDI (CR) DPF 2009–2010 CAYC
  77 kW (103 hp; 105 PS) @4,400 rpm 250 Nm (184 lbft) @1,500–2,500 rpm
• 1.9 TDI (PD) 2005–2009 BKC/BXE/BLS
  77 kW (103 hp; 105 PS) @4,000 rpm 250 Nm (184 lbft) @1,900 rpm
• 2.0 TDI (PD) 2005–2008 AZV
  100 kW (134 hp; 136 PS) @4,000 rpm 320 Nm (236 lbft) @1,750–2,500 rpm
• 2.0 TDI (PD) 2005–2008 BKD
  103 kW (138 hp; 140 PS) @4,000 rpm 320 Nm (236 lbft) @1,750–2,500 rpm
• 2.0 TDI (PD) DPF 2005–2008 BMM
  103 kW (138 hp; 140 PS) @4,000 rpm 320 Nm (236 lbft) @1,800–2,500 rpm
• 2.0 TDI (CR) DPF 2008–2010 CBDB
  103 kW (138 hp; 140 PS) @4,000 rpm 320 Nm (236 lbft) @1,750–2,500 rpm
• 2.0 TDI (PD) DPF 2006–2008 BMN
  125 kW (168 hp; 170 PS) @4,200 rpm 350 Nm (258 lbft) @1,750–2,500 rpm
• 2.0 TDI (CR) DPF 2008–2010 CBBB
  125 kW (168 hp; 170 PS) @4,200 rpm 350 Nm (258 lbft) @1,750–2,500 rpm

We have detailed tuning guides for the following VAG group engines. (More will be added soon.) many of which would make interesting engine swap projects on your A5 Jetta.

• • 1.4 1.5 TFSi tuning
  • 1.4 TSi/TFSi/Twincharge tuning
  • 1.8T engine Tuning
  • 1.8 & 2.0 TFSi (mk1) Tuning
  • 1.8 2.0 TFSi (ea888) Tuning
  • 2.0 TFSi carbon issue & care guide
  • 2.5tfsi tuning
  • 3.0 V6 24v TFSI Tuning
  • 2.8 V6 30 valve, 24 valve 3.0 V6 30v and 3.2 VR6 Tuning
  • 3.6 VR6 Tuning
  • 1.6 TDi tuning
  • 1.9 TDi tuning
  • 2.0 TDI 140-170 tuning
  • 2.0 TDI tuning (EA188)
  • 2.5 TDI tuning
  • 2.7 & 3.0 TDI tuning

The engines are strong, and the tiny, lightweight body makes driving a pleasure. VW has continued to improve on the successful recipe with some spectacular engine and chassis combinations throughout the years.

The 2.0 TFSi engine is one of the best we've ever worked with, and we've created a guide to it. It would perform well in your Jetta A5 and serve as an excellent foundation for modifications and alterations.

Engine Modifications for the Jetta A5

On larger engines (1.8 and more) and turbocharged engines, we recommend a full induction kit with a cold air supply.

For smaller engines and diesel versions, we recommend a panel air filter made of a high-flow material such as cotton gauze.

Tuning table for quarter mile times, before and after tuning.

Base power	Quarter Mile	Tuned to	Kerb Weight	Quarter Mile
115hp	18.26	120hp	1400kg	18.01
150hp	16.78	170hp	1400kg	16.13
185hp	15.68	225hp	1400kg	14.73
		640hp	1400kg	10.97
		550hp	1200kg	10.99

Weight reduction makes a lot of sense, effectively adding power, and improving handling, with a 200kg weight reduction showing as a 90hp power gain over a quarter mile time.

Jetta A5 Remapping

What is it about OEM maps that makes them so easy to improve and why do they lock out so much potential power?

Manufacturers do not want their consumers to be inconvenienced by mechanical problems or inefficient fuel efficiency, which is why they allow a big margin for error in their maps.

Due to the fact that various nations utilise different fuel grades and experience differing degrees of severe weather, fudge is required to keep all automobiles working properly internationally.

Each vehicle's power output varies by up to ten horsepower depending on component quality and installation.

Rather than the expense of customising timing maps for each car, they adopt a one-size-fits-all technique that works effectively on all new Jetta A5s in all regions, it also makes updates and recalls more easy to handle.

Therefore, if you're willing to keep your Jetta A5 in good condition and only use high-quality fuel and components, tunes or remaps will significantly increase engine power.

Additionally, since the typical TorqueCars reader will be upgrading components, a tune/remap makes sense. Anyone considering an engine upgrade should consider remapping.

All current turbocharged engines benefit from remaps, which boost power output by 20-30%. TorqueCars highly recommends engine tuning/remapping turbocharged automobiles on a rolling road/dyno in order to truly appreciate the increased power.

Are there hidden costs from engine tuning/remapping your Jetta?

Service your Jetta more often, and maybe specify higher quality oil.

A map optimised for high-octane gasoline will need the repair of components that fail due to the additional stress and strain is has to endure. (Increased power puts more demand on components.)

Months after a remap, an engine's weak areas resurface and these were not caused by the map but merely manifest themselves as you've reduced the tolerance for errors and issues.

Usually, a tune/remap will reveal turbocharger and clutch issues. Additionally, turbos may fail, and critical components like as pistons and bearings must be maintained in excellent condition.

Remaps for NASP Jettas?

Without a turbo, a tune/remap will only add a few hp (normally 10%), so it's not worth it unless you've made a lot of other modifications, such as changing the cams, pistons, compression, engine balance, air intake, exhaust, and heads to accommodate bigger valves, etc.

Remapping turbos must be done right

Typically, a tune/remap increases boost from lower engine speeds, forcing the turbo to spin quicker and hotter. A good remapper will not max out the boost at low rpms, in order to prolong the life of the turbo, that needs this "cool down area".

Allowing the turbo to cool properly prevents the oil from deteriorating, requiring an expensive turbo repair. Additionally, installing a turbo timer will help cool the engine.

Be careful of the peak Power Claims made by engine tuning/remapping businesses.

To get attention, tuners have been known to induce a power blip or surge.

Consider the picture below: rather than giving power over the whole torque curve, the more spectacular-sounding 200bhp map (shown in red) only gives a power blip with poor performance everywhere else.

On the other hand, the green trace demonstrates a consistent rise in power across the RPM range, and although it is just 175bhp, it is far better than the factory plan and significantly better than the 200hp map.

Additionally, it displays peak power at 4000rpm, which is outstanding for an engine that reaches its redline at 7000rpm.

On a dyno printout chart, we want to achieve a steady torque climb without any dips or troughs.

Fast road cams for the Jetta

A fast road cam increases the peak power band in the majority of Jetta engines, and when combined with a tune/remap on a turbo model, it is one of the most powerful tuning options available.

Motorsport camshafts increase the power band at higher revs, but the vehicle will not idle smoothly and low end power almost always suffers as a consequence.

On a daily driver, you must adjust your torque band for the vehicle's intended use.

I'd be astonished if you've discovered that driving in heavy traffic with a Race cam is a delight.

Different Jetta A5 engines benefit from longer camshaft durations. Check and adjust your engine's timing on a rolling road. A Vernier pully cam adjustment enables you to fine-tune the placement of your power band and thereby improves operating smoothness.

VW Jetta A5 Exhaust upgrades

Replace your exhaust system only if it is preventing you from fully utilizing your mods, and there is a restriction.

Even with modest power gains, the majority of factory exhausts will flow freely, but if you want to farther, you'll need a more flowing exhaust.

While racing exhausts may benefit in improving engine airflow, a wide exhaust may lower flow velocity.

Always strive for a 1.5-2.5 inch thickness. Without the need for illegal catalyst removal, an aftermarket performance catalyst may be able to regain that lost power, allowing the car to remain legal for public road usage.

Because the higher size and surface area of a sports catalyst eliminates this restriction and enables the vehicle to operate normally, it is akin to a test pipe alteration while being street legal.

This implies that a sports catalyst boosts performance to the level expected without one while enabling your vehicle to be driven on public roads.

Due to the fact that removing a catalyst is illegal in the majority of locations and areas (and in some, you cannot even replace a functional catalyst), the catless mod or catalyst removal should be considered an off-road-only modification.

VW Jetta A5 Turbo upgrades and Mods

Read our detailed guide to VAG group turbos.

In recent years, the VAG corporation has created a variety of turbocharged engines to its vehicles. Let's examine these turbocharged engines, their differences, and the best upgrade alternatives.

Additionally, we examine turbo power restrictions. You may exceed a turbo's safe operating limitations, but the turbo's lifetime will be shortened. Before the turbo fails, you will hear a whining or siren sound, followed by smoke.

You should make an effort to replace it now. A turbo failure may result in significant engine damage, particularly if the compressor fails.

Which turbochargers were installed in the Jetta A5?

The IHI IS12, IS20, and IS38 turbochargers are the most recent variants of the VAG K03, K03s, and K04 turbochargers. The IS12 uses 1.8t MQB engines from Audi and VW, while the IS20 uses 2.0t MQB engines. Why is the IS38 Turbo even a thing?

The IS38 is renowned for its 370 horsepower (with the proper add-ons).

Due to its longevity, VAG used the popular IHI turbo. IS38 turbochargers provide a number of benefits, and they are standard on a number of performance models, including the Volkswagen Golf R, Arteon, S3, and TTS.

As a consequence, the IS38 is a superb pick for anybody looking for unmatched performance and durability.

The IS38 is also a bolt-on turbocharger that produces excellent turbo power at higher RPMs.

A diverse assortment of hybrid models that have enhanced housing and impeller designs for increased performance.

IS12/IS20 Replacement with High Performance

Many car fans have switched from the older IS12 and IS20 turbo to the newer IS38.

Why Should You Replace your Turbocharger?

Listed below are many reasons why individuals replace or update their turbos: A turbocharger upgrade is one of the most important power enhancers for your Jetta.

Turbochargers degrade with time and must be replaced. Newer turbos provide a broader range of settings and offer more power, or faster spool up thanks to cutting-edge technology and developments.

Turbo Upgrades for the Jetta A5 That Actually Work

We strongly advise you to do thorough due diligence on your supplier, since there are several dodgy and low-quality turbo units on the market which will fail in very short time periods.

Install a low-cost turbo upgrade, and you'll be back in six months to do it again. Additionally, selecting a turbo with the following qualities is a wise choice:

You must tune/remap after a turbo swap, even if the car is ok to run on your new turbo especially if you want to fully release the power it offers.

If this is not done, lean running or limp home mode, as well as fault codes, may follow.

Alternatives to the stock K04 turbo:

• SH Stigan 847-1435 SKU 40-30002
• AW BorgWarner 53049500001 SKU 40-30003

It is the same as swapping a VAG turbo to a different model. While the technique varies from vehicle to vehicle, various stages may be included:

1. Changing the diameter of the exhaust pipe
2. Fuel injectors have been replaced.
3. A brand new booster controller.
4. Intercoolers and various types of cooling systems
5. Catalysts with less restrictions
6. Changing out the mufflers
7. The fuel pump
8. A wastegate modification

Aside from the aforementioned factors, the engine compartment architecture and layout have an impact on how difficult it is to transfer a turbo from a different model.

It is possible that the exhaust and intake pipes may need to be reconfigured, and space may be restricted.

Jetta A5 Turbo Hybrids

Why Purchase a Hybrid Turbo?

While Stigan, IHI, and BorgWarner all produce turbochargers, many think that hybrid turbochargers offer more options to the driver.

So a hybrid hybrid turbocharger is made by assembling high-performance components from a variety of different manufacturers and usully installed in the stock Turbo casing.

These hybrid turbochargers are designed to outperform original equipment turbochargers.

Do Jetta A5 Hybrid Turbos Perform the Same as OEM Turbos?

A hybrid turbo may have a single component or the whole OEM turbo internals changed to achieve exceptional performance.

While the external appearance of these turbochargers seems to be stock, the updated internal components promise much increased performance. Turbochargers using hybrid technology boost performance.

Hybrid turbos outperform conventional turbos in terms of responsiveness and performance because they combine the best of the different components on offer.

A well designed hybrid turbocharger increases pressure and flow while maintaining a safe turbine speed.

This increases the component's life. With hybrid turbochargers, you get what you pay for.

While conventional turbochargers need various trade-offs, the basic benefit of hybrid turbochargers is that you get what you pay for.

Jetta A5 Handling Modifications

The ride comfort is best described as robust and well-controlled, but not as forgiving as the previous generation of automobiles. The front MacPherson Strut suspension prevented the automobile from rolling excessively due to its fast and accurate steering.

Additionally, the A5 was the first Jetta to use a multi-link independent rear suspension, a notable innovation.

The first modification to the Jetta A5 is to change the suspension. Reduce the car's ride height by 30-40 mm and add firmer springs to sharpen the ride and boost the driver's enjoyment of the vehicle.

Numerous Jetta A5 owners prioritize suspension tweaks to enhance their cars' handling, which will surely increase your enjoyment of the vehicle.

The original suspension settings on the majority of Jetta A5s need adjusting; a few degrees of toe out for cornering or toe in for stability, -0.8 to 1.3, and a touch of negative camber will considerably improve cornering and handling.

Drop the car between 26mm and 39mm and install performance stiffer dampers; bigger drops often need further modifications.

By purchasing brakes from the VR, Audi RS3, or Porsche, you can certain that you are getting an OEM solution to your braking troubles. Larger discs and pads considerably increase the Jetta A5's braking response.

Front-wheel-drive variations will perform better with the addition of a limited slip differential or a semi-locking differential, such as the one found in the Audi A3 T Sport. Reduced gear ratios will also boost acceleration.

Jetta A5 Alloy wheel upgrades.

Due to their lower weight, performance alloy rims improve performance and help keep brake discs cool.

We'd like to emphasize that, although enormous alloy wheels look great on the Jetta A5, they really detract from performance. As you ascend, your acceleration will decelerate owing to the change in your effective final drive ratio.

Keeping this in mind, we suggest limiting wheel sizes to 17 or 18 inches. Although we are aware that some of our members have gone larger without incident, it does restrict handling especially in the wet.

Keep an eye on the rim and tire weights, since this unsprung weight has a considerable effect on handling.

Please help us improve these tips by sending us your feedback in the comments box below.

Jetta A5 common Problems

There are a few problems and issues to look out for on popular vag group engines, but I've split these off into other articles.

1. 2.0 TFSi carbon buildup issues - direct injection engines require an intake clean.
2. 2.0 TFSi problems - N75 and N249, high oil consumption,  Cam Follower wear, Water Pump failure, and Turbo issues
3. 2.0 TDi problems - Flywheel, Oil pump,  Lumpy Idling
4. 1.8T Problems - Diagnosing the common faults and issues

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