I am very interested in a chip upgrade but even with the option of a seperate ECU, I would still like to be able to go to a dealer that might have a little knowledge about servicing chipped cars. Criswell in Annapolis is NOT chip friendly.

They insist that a chip will 100% void the warranty and they will not work on the vehicle once they find out it is chipped.

Checked the Archives, I didn't find any reference to a chip friendly dealer in MD. I found a few references to Heishman, and I have heard good things about them. I will have my car serviced there.

JDietz
'97 1.8TQMS ( purchased used w/remaining 36/50 and got additional Audi Certified 5/75 )<ul><li><a href="http://www.a4.org/forum/m/a4/155258.phtml">VA chip friendly from the archive</a></li></ul>

- Heishman Audi (Arlington, VA) is ok with chips as long as engine/mechanical failure doesn't result. Seemed the most easy-going of the 4 dealers.

- HBL Audi (Tysons Corner, VA) says that they go with the manufacturer's specs which means chips aren't recommended. However, they won't say anything about chips as long as there are no engine/mechanical problems due to the mod.

- Rockville Audi's (MD) service department are a bunch of idiots. Any mods done to the A4 that's not in the "Official" Audi service book will void the warranty. Replace your brake pads? Voided warranty. Install a chip? Voided warranty. Their quote, "Do anything you want with your car, heck.. paint it lime green if you like, but AFTER
your warranty expires... not before."

- Tischer Audi (Silver Spring, MD) replied to my email inquiry with: "Any ECU performance chip would void the factory warranty on your vehicle. Tischer does not sell or support aftermarket chips."