Upgrading your Audi S3 2.0 TFSI with an AWE Tuning Cold Air Intake is one of the most rewarding performance modifications you can make. Designed specifically for the EA888 engine family, this intake not only increases horsepower and torque by reducing intake restriction but also delivers a more aggressive induction sound that transforms the driving experience. In this detailed guide, we walk you through every step of the installation, from gathering the right tools to performing the final checks. Whether you are a seasoned DIYer or a first-time modifier, following these instructions will ensure a clean, leak-free installation that unlocks the full potential of your S3.

Why Upgrade to an AWE Tuning Cold Air Intake?

The factory air intake system on the Audi S3 2.0 TFSI is designed for quiet operation and cost efficiency, but it creates a bottleneck that limits airflow. AWE Tuning’s cold air intake replaces the restrictive factory air box with a large, high-flow filter and a smooth tube that draws cooler air from outside the engine bay. The result is measurable gains in throttle response and top-end power, coupled with a soundtrack that lets you hear the turbo spool and blow-off valve. Moreover, the kit is engineered to retain factory mounting points and hoses, making installation straightforward for anyone with basic mechanical skills.

Tools and Materials Required

Before starting, ensure you have the following items on hand. Gathering everything beforehand will save you time and frustration.

  • AWE Tuning Cold Air Intake Kit (verify it comes with air filter, intake tube, heat shield, clamps, and hardware)
  • Socket wrench set with extensions (metric sizes: 10mm, 13mm, 8mm)
  • Flathead screwdriver (medium size for hose clamps)
  • Torx bit set (T25 and T30 are common for engine cover and brackets)
  • Rubber gloves (protect your hands from oil and dirt)
  • Shop towels or rags
  • Safety glasses
  • Trim removal tool (optional, for gently prying plastic clips)
  • Anti-seize compound (optional, for threads)

AWE Tuning provides comprehensive hardware and instructions, but having a torque wrench set to low values (e.g., 6–8 Nm for plastic components) is helpful to avoid overtightening.

Preparation and Safety

Work on a level surface with the engine completely cool. The intake sits near the turbo and exhaust manifold, so a hot engine can cause burns. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent any electrical shorts or accidental ECU resets. If your S3 is equipped with a soundaktor or charge pipe sensors, be aware that the intake placement may require careful routing of harnesses. Lastly, take a photo or two of the original engine bay layout – this reference photo will help you remember where clips and brackets belong during reassembly.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1: Remove the Engine Cover

Using a Torx T30 bit or 8mm socket, remove the bolts securing the plastic engine cover. On most S3 models there are four bolts – two at the front and two at the rear. Lift the cover straight up and set it aside in a safe place. If the cover is stuck, gently rock it from side to side; there may be rubber grommets holding it in place.

Step 2: Disconnect the Factory Air Intake Hose

Locate the corrugated intake hose that runs from the air box to the turbo inlet pipe. Use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the metal worm-drive clamp at the air box end. Slide the clamp down the hose a few inches, then pull the hose off the air box. On some model years there is also a small breather hose attached to the air box – disconnect that by squeezing the plastic release tabs. Set the hose aside.

Step 3: Remove the Factory Air Box Assembly

The factory air box is held in place by a combination of bolts and a rubber grommet at the bottom. Using a 10mm socket, remove the two bolts on the top of the air box. There is also a third bolt near the fender well that may be accessible from underneath. Once all fasteners are removed, lift the lower half of the air box upward and out of the engine bay. You may need to tilt it slightly to clear the chassis. Take note of any foam seals or spacers that come out with the air box – these may be reused or discarded per the AWE instructions.

Step 4: Prepare the AWE Tuning Intake Components

Lay out all the AWE parts on a clean surface. The kit typically includes a new intake tube (with a silicone coupler if needed), a high-flow conical filter, a heat shield, and various clamps. Slide the included rubber gasket onto the filter opening if it is not pre-installed. Attach the filter to the intake tube loosely – you will tighten it after positioning. Apply a small amount of anti-seize to any bolts that will contact aluminum to prevent galvanic corrosion.

Step 5: Install the Heat Shield (if included)

AWE’s heat shield helps separate the filter from hot engine components. Position the heat shield in the empty space where the factory air box sat. It usually bolts down using the same threaded holes. Secure it with the provided screws but do not fully tighten until the tube is aligned. If your kit includes a foam strip, adhere it to the top edge of the heat shield to create a seal against the hood.

Step 6: Mount the New Intake Tube and Filter

Place the intake tube into the heat shield, aligning the filter side with the shield opening. Connect the other end of the tube to the turbo inlet pipe using the supplied silicone coupler and clamps. Ensure the tube does not contact the chassis or any moving parts. Tighten all clamps evenly with a screwdriver or ratchet – do not overtighten, as silicone can compress. The filter should be oriented so that it has maximum clearance from the fender and engine block.

Step 7: Reconnect the Breather Hoses and Sensors

Depending on your S3 model year, there may be a PCV breather hose that originally went to the factory air box. Your AWE kit likely includes a small fitting or adapter for this hose. Connect it to the new intake tube as indicated in the instructions. If your vehicle has a mass airflow sensor (MAF) or intake air temperature sensor, transfer it from the old air box to the new tube. Use the supplied rubber grommet if necessary. Ensure the wiring harness is routed away from hot surfaces and zip-tied securely.

Step 8: Install the New Air Box Lid (if applicable)

Some AWE kits include a decorative or functional cover that sits over the filter. If yours does, align it with the heat shield and snap or bolt it into place. This not only looks clean but also helps direct cool air from the front grille area. Double-check that the lid does not pinch the filter – there should be a few millimeters of clearance.

Step 9: Final Assembly and Inspection

Reinstall any brackets you removed earlier. Check all clamps for tightness. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Before refitting the engine cover, start the engine and listen for any air whistles or unusual sounds – a whistling noise often indicates a loose clamp or an improperly seated gasket. Let the engine idle for a few minutes to stabilize, then shut it off. If everything sounds normal, reinstall the engine cover using the original bolts.

Post-Installation Checks and Test Drive

With the installation complete, take a moment to verify that no tools or rags are left in the engine bay. Start the engine again and let it idle for several minutes. The idle should be smooth; if it hunts or stumbles, double-check that the MAF sensor is plugged in and that there are no large vacuum leaks. A light spray of brake cleaner around connections while the engine is running can help locate a leak (if the revs change, you have found it). Once the engine is warm, take the car on a short drive. Accelerate gently at first, then perform a few full-throttle pulls in a safe area. You should notice sharper throttle response and a deeper intake sound. The ECU may require a few drive cycles to fully adapt to the increased airflow, so fuel trims may fluctuate initially – this is normal.

For added peace of mind, consider monitoring boost and air-fuel ratios with an OBD-II scanner. AWE Tuning provides baseline data logs on their website for comparison.

Maintenance Tips for Your AWE Intake

To keep the intake performing at its best, clean the conical filter every 15,000–20,000 miles or after any extreme off-road driving. Use a gentle cleaning kit designed for oiled air filters. Do not over-oil the filter – excess oil can contaminate the MAF sensor. Inspect the silicone couplers and clamps for cracks or loosening periodically, especially after the first 500 miles of driving. AWE Tuning offers replacement filter kits directly through their site or authorized distributors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will installing the intake void my vehicle warranty?

Modifications that replace factory emission-related components can potentially affect warranty coverage for specific systems. However, the AWE intake is a direct bolt-on part that does not require any permanent modifications. In many cases, dealers are fine with intakes as long as they are not causing drivability issues. If warranty concerns are important to you, keep the factory parts and reinstall them if needed.

Do I need a tune after installing a cold air intake?

A tune is not required, but the intake will unlock more power when combined with an ECU flash. The stock ECU can adapt to the increased airflow within limits, but a stage 1 or stage 2 tune maximizes the benefit and improves throttle mapping. AWE Tuning recommends their own software for the best results.

Why choose AWE Tuning over other brands?

AWE Tuning is a well-respected manufacturer of performance parts for the Audi/Volkswagen community. Their intake kits are known for precise fitment, high-quality materials, and extensive dyno testing. They provide detailed installation guides and customer support, which makes the DIY experience much smoother.

Conclusion

Installing the AWE Tuning Cold Air Intake on your S3 2.0 TFSI is a satisfying afternoon project that delivers tangible performance gains and a more exciting engine note. By following this expanded guide, you can complete the installation with confidence, avoiding common pitfalls like loose clamps or incorrect filter orientation. The improvements in throttle response and turbo spool are immediately noticeable, making every drive more engaging. For the best long-term results, pair your new intake with a high-flow downpipe and a professional tune. Enjoy the sound and the speed – and don’t forget to share your experience on enthusiast forums to help other S3 owners.

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