Introduction

The EA888 Gen 3 (EA888.3) is a global engine suitable for MLB (Modularer Langsbaukasten/Longitudinal ) and MQB (Modularer Querbaukasten/Transverse) platforms, capable of meeting the latest emission and fuel economy targets in different markets

In the Europe, the new MQB EA888 Gen 3 engines were introduced to Volkswagen Golf, Skoda Octavia, Seat Leon and Audi A3/S3 vehicle.  

A Simos 18 Engine Control unit was utilised in order to control the features of the engine. The Engine family has two different sizes currently (1.8 litres and 2.0 litres) with the larger (2.0l) family offering both a lower output (but high compression) option and a high output (Lower compression) option.

Currently Gen 3 EA888 engines, used in MQB cars covered in this document, use an exhaust only AVS (Audi Valvelift System).

Table of Contents

Summary of Software

ProECU software has been introduced to allow reprogramming of the factory ECU in order to tune the necessary components of the calibration, allowing for modifications and increases in power.  Pro ECU software filters several thousand OE calibration maps into a comprehensive set of maps, selected to all allow the tuner to tune the engine with similar ease, found on a standalone replacement ECUs.

The software allows easy control over most factory parameters including:

• Boost targets and wastegate control

• Target AFR

• Ignition timing and knock control

• Valve timing and lift control

• Fuel delivery including fuel pump calibration (using the same style pump as OEM)

• Airflow Measurement and fuel compensation

Tuning should be carried out by suitably trained individuals.

Use this document is a guide. Changes to any calibration is at your own risk.

Changes involving the evaluation of full engine load, should be carried out in the safety of a chassis dynamometer by trained personal.

The base engine should be deemed in a serviceable state of health as well as the dress kit bolted to it before attempting to tune it etc.

For the best results, ensure the engine is run on the best commonly available fuel (in the EU, RON 98 or greater)

This document is also work in progress.

Programming 

For information on how to program as well as flash recovery, check out.

• ECU Programming Overview

• How to Recover an ECU
  
  

For more software guides check out:

• Software Help and How-To

Tuning Guide

The Simos 18.X Engine Control Unit (ECU) requests and outputs torque via a fast path and a slow path.

The fast path includes the following attributes.

• Ignition control.

• Fuel setpoint and lambda control.

• Fuel shut off.

The slow path includes the following  attributes.

• Load demand via air setpoint

• Throttle setpoint

• Turbocharger actuator set point.

• Cam setpoint.

Tuning the ECU for more torque involves several operations and involve raising the load limits on the slow path and optimising the fuel and ignition settings on the fast path.