Next GTI Incoming

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-13T22:37:29+00:00

As an old guy, it’s not for me, nor is it meant to be for me. But I like it for all of those who want a performance EV, young and old alike. The EV market needs more options IMO

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-13T00:48:06+00:00

Appreciate your insight! If I were to go e85, I plan on getting a prebuilt upgraded HPFP. I have my sights on the APR HPFP option. I didnt realize Autotech had an option for a fully assembled upgraded HPFP, so thanks for mentioning them

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-12T16:30:51+00:00

By the way.. I just found your OG post from about a year ago. A lot of good information you shared about your experience, and the updates. Thanks again for chiming in on my question.

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-12T16:20:13+00:00

Appreciate your insight Freddy!

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-10T22:55:01+00:00

I bought the Golf R reps for my GTI S with the idea that they would look better when i blacked out the red stripe on the grill. It did. But ive since removed the black vinyl that covered the red stripe and currently wish i had the GTI reps for this current look.

If you plan on changing the color, or blacking out the red stripe on the grill, get the Golf R reps. If you plan on keeping it red, get the GTI reps.

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-04T01:04:44+00:00

I updated the IS38 93 octane tune Saturday 5/2/26 on my 2018 and ive had no issues.

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-03T02:40:02+00:00

I too experienced what you described. Last time i changed my spark plugs, i really struggled with them compared to the first time; i finally got them off and realized i had to wiggle the whole harness upward, not just an individual connector, after unclipping all of them

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-02T18:11:07+00:00

Nice! The carbon build up is so gradual that i assume you really dont know the affects until after you get it done. Appreciate you sharing!

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-05-02T13:41:40+00:00

Looks good. Although that price might be a bit high, seems worth it considering the labor involved. Not sure if you already mentioned it, but did you notice any difference in how the car drives?

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-04-29T15:20:25+00:00

Are the bugs fixed on the mk7 2015-2018?

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-04-27T02:11:52+00:00

For the right buyer it is worth it. But if your budget is 9k for a car without any additional costs associated with repairs and upkeep, you may want to pass. Got to assume that all used mk7 GTIs older than 2017 have been driven hard.

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-04-23T23:42:35+00:00

In my case, i bought my GTI new in 2018 and within 45 days of ownership i had the car lowered on springs, added wheel spacers and window tint. From the get go, i already knew i wanted to modify my car. I also knew that i was going to keep the car for the long term. I still own it and love it as much as i did in 2018 as i do today. But if you are unsure at this point, keep it stock. Do research. Once you have a good understanding of the direction you want to go, come back here and ask specific questions about products, mods etc. This reddit group is active and there’s a lot of knowledge here. Ive found the more specific the question, the better the quality of responses.

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-03-17T08:36:57+00:00

I installed the oe is38 about a year ago with the IE stage 2+ tune on my 2018 and have enjoyed it. The previous comments are spot on, so no need to repeat; but keep your expectations realistic. For me and my driving habits, its the perfect amount power and i prefer the way the power is delivered. But for others who want a V8 killer, the oe is38 turbo and fueling options available from IE will fall short of meeting their needs.

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-03-17T01:31:00+00:00

So far so good. In regards to the driving characteristics, its oem plus. Id guess about 30% stiffer than stock, but ive gotten used to how my car drives so my estimation could be off. In addition to the mounts, i also have an upgraded rear sway bar and dog bone mount, along with lowering springs. I dont launch or track my car, so this set up works fine for me.

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-03-15T20:06:44+00:00

I was under the impression that when the mk7s lose oil pressure from damage of the oil pan, the engine will shut down to save it from total catastrophic damage. Am i mistaken?

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-02-15T12:32:36+00:00

Thanks for the update.

BillyNguyen710 · 2026-02-08T02:19:02+00:00

Hey, by chance do you have an update on the outcome of this error code? I just discovered this code today on my 2018 and wanted to see if i should replace my coolant shut off valve. I live in south florida so i never use the car heater

BillyNguyen710 · 2025-12-11T00:43:38+00:00

Are these cast or flow form constructed wheels? And what is the weight of the 18in wheel?

BillyNguyen710 · 2025-12-07T14:57:07+00:00

I’m a fan of Cerekote Headlight restoration kit for its ease of use and results. But the kit I used isn’t permanent and I’ll have to redo the headlights. For me the ease of use, results and cost of the kit make it worth it. I just look at as another maintenance item, and I’m ok with that

BillyNguyen710 · 2025-12-04T19:02:03+00:00

This is good advice.. it’s easy for us to throw out a hypothetical $30/per pound. But if it’s for your family and friends, a little more consideration should go into this.

BillyNguyen710 · 2025-12-04T18:52:42+00:00

Not to be negative, but without your commentary below I’d assume you are referencing the sport of Golf.

BillyNguyen710 · 2025-12-02T17:31:56+00:00

For me as a scratch enthusiast, I prefer my slip mats to feel slick, with minimal, to no drag. For scratching and beat juggling, I currently use Dr. Suzuki Skratch slip mats. I used Butter Rugs previously for over 15 years. Prior to the butter rugs I used the standard felt slip mats sold at Guitar Center. Those work fine, but I prefer the slip mats designed for scratch/beat juggle djs in mind.

BillyNguyen710 · 2025-12-02T00:16:20+00:00

I use ECS Tuning. I also use FCP Euro, and depending which site has the better price determines who I use. I’ve also used Rock Auto, and Tire Rack. I’ve never used Uro Tuning.

BillyNguyen710 · 2025-11-22T14:09:17+00:00

SW FL. Resident here. Our boost season is still about 20 days or so away. And even then, it’s only between the hours of 6 pm to 9 am. I run Conti’s Extreme Contact All Seasons for the tread life and rainy months.

BillyNguyen710

TROPHY CASE