What it is
This is a firmware/calibration flash for the DSG dual-clutch transmission on VW/Audi TDI models, separate from engine tuning. It changes shift timing, torque handling, and mode behavior, without any hardware changes.
Delivery method by model year — read carefully
| Model Years | Delivery Method |
|---|---|
| Most 2009–2016 models | Q-PRO+ programmer via OBD2 port (same device used for engine tuning) |
| 2015 Audi A3, 2015 Golf, 2015 Golf Sportwagen | Not available via standard Q-PRO+. Requires KermaTDI's loaner specialty tools, or a Windows laptop with a reliable internet connection |
If you're only ordering the DSG tune (no engine tune)
Order this product, then wait for the specialty tools to become available — this isn't an instant flash for standalone DSG orders on the affected 2015 models.
If you already have Q-PRO+ engine tuning installed
Order this product, then contact info@kermatdi.com for additional instructions to add the DSG tune to your existing setup — it's not automatically bundled.
What changes, by transmission mode
Eco/Drive Mode
| Factory | Kerma Tuned | |
|---|---|---|
| Shift speed | Slow, indecisive | Crisp, quick |
| Shift hunting | Present, worsens with added torque | Eliminated |
| Upshift timing | Too early, below peak torque | Held to stay in peak torque band |
| Downshift response | Reluctant; requires kickdown switch at WOT | Responsive to throttle input |
| Standing-start delay | Long lag before movement | Immediate response |
Sport Mode
| Factory | Kerma Tuned | |
|---|---|---|
| Upshift behavior | Resists upshifting | More responsive to throttle lift |
| Low-RPM behavior | Severe bogging, reluctant downshift | Automatic downshift to stay in power band |
| Full-throttle RPM hold | Held past power peak, slows acceleration | Shifts occur at power peak |
Manual Mode
| Factory | Kerma Tuned | |
|---|---|---|
| Downshift behavior | Too eager to downshift automatically | Won't downshift below 1,100 RPM without throttle input |
| RPM hold | Not a true manual mode | Holds to 4,500 RPM redline (stock turbo safety limit), like an actual manual |
General benefits across all modes
Fitment
2009–2016 VW Golf, Golf Sportwagen, Jetta, Jetta Sportwagen, Passat, and Audi A3 TDI, all with DSG transmission.
Common questions
Can I install this myself via OBD, or do I need special tools? Most 2009–2016 models flash via the standard Q-PRO+ over OBD2. Exceptions: 2015 Audi A3, 2015 Golf, and 2015 Golf Sportwagen need either KermaTDI's loaner specialty tools or a Windows laptop with internet access.
Does this tune change my engine power, or just the transmission? Just the transmission — shift logic, torque limits, and mode behavior. It doesn't add engine power on its own; that's a separate Q-PRO+ engine tune.
If I already have the Q-PRO+ engine tune, do I automatically get the DSG tune too? No — order this product separately and contact KermaTDI for instructions to add it to your existing Q-PRO+ setup.
Does Manual Mode actually behave like a real manual transmission afterward? Per KermaTDI, yes — it holds RPM to redline (4,500 RPM, limited for stock turbo safety) and won't downshift below 1,100 RPM without throttle input, unlike the factory "manual" mode which downshifts too eagerly.
A recent email from one of our satisfied customers
"Upon further review and testing of the KermaTDI DSG tune, I have to take my hat off you. It is like a new car. I very much like this, and likely saved the car for me. The I actually get a gear when I want it. The car now seems like it is faster to accelerate than it was before. So, stepping on the accelerator immediately drops a gear with no lag and off the car goes. I love it. The car is 200% more drivable. I am quite pleased. For me, the previous tune was so bad, that I dare to say that it could be seen as a safety issue. With the Kerma DSG tune, the actually moves, and gets out of its own way, as before it would, but only with severe lag, then neck snapping downshifts. It was bad. Now it is great... how many times do I have to repeat it. Additionally, like the description for the tune states, the car is kept in a higher rpm band, or lower gear, keeping the driver in a better state of acceleration, rather than the car bogging out in highest gear. "
