Agree with Diggs - any aftermarket IC will be an upgrade over stock. The R one is slightly larger, but minimally so and not worth using.
I'm running a Wagner on my IS38 GTI and it's been great, even through the dead of summer here in FL.
You likely need new engine and transmission mounts. The stock ones are quite soft and get worn over time. I'm sure the added torque from being a TDI doesn't help with their longevity either.
Same. I've had that shifter trim recall open on my car for years now. Haven't had it at the dealer for anything in a long while, but they always used to ask me if I wanted it done even though the trim on mine is still perfect nearly 10 years later 🤷♂️
I could've sworn I got mine from TRS, but I just checked my old emails and sure enough, I used HID Concepts too. (Btw, the quoted 7000K color is pure marketing - the actual bulbs are much closer to 5500-6000K).
I ran CBI before switching to CBB - they're a good option as well, but a touch...
It's showing for my VIN as well (2015 GTI built very early in March of 2014). Already dealt with this issue twice: first in 2015 when they replaced the entire fuel tank and charcoal canister, and again in 2022 when they replaced the suction pump, charcoal canister, and N80 valve under the 15...
Same. OBD11 is great from a convenience/emergency standpoint but I really dislike the subscription/credits model (though VCDS will likely be moving in this direction once it starts to work with SFD unlocking etc). That said, I still have my unlimited VIN cable and need to pick up a cheap/small...
I personally would stick to the lightest film for the windshield, typically 70%. I was skeptical about it since I'd never had film on my windshield, but I'm a believer now. It's as good as invisible but helps to reject a ton of heat. The car stays cooler overall and cools down much faster...
Ceramic tint doesn't affect cell signal at all. Metalized tint is what interferes with signal, but any reputable/high quality film these days will be ceramic.
Not 50%, nor 3M, nor a Mk7 lol, but here's Xpel XR Plus 30% all around. Also went with 70% on the windshield fwiw. Just dark enough to eliminate the fish bowl effect, but not entirely blacked out either. Heat rejection is incredible.
Those lights should polish up real nice - been meaning to do mine. I'd recommend applying PPF before installing them to keep them nice for much longer.