TTE535 Upgrade Turbocharger, VAG Audi VW MQB EA888.3 (IS38)

TTE535 IS38 Hybrid Upgrade Turbocharger – VAG 2.0 / 1.8 TSI EA888.3

The TTE535 is a hybrid performance upgrade turbocharger based on the OEM IHI IS38 unit used on VAG EA888.3 2.0 TSI and 1.8 TSI MQB engines. Following on from the proven TTE525R, the TTE535 is designed as a Stage 3+ solution with a strong balance of power, spool and response. With appropriate supporting modifications and software, power outputs of around 535 PS+ at high boost levels have been demonstrated on 99 RON fuel.

Construction and Core Upgrades

To create the TTE535, the original IS38 turbo is completely reworked. The standard compressor wheel is replaced by a much larger, more efficient billet wheel with extended-tip technology, and the compressor cover is CNC-machined to the correct profile and gap. On the exhaust side, the factory turbine is replaced with a lightweight 9-blade turbine and the turbine housing is CNC-machined to suit, improving gas flow and reducing back pressure and exhaust gas temperatures.

The CHRA receives a reinforced 360° thrust bearing pack manufactured by TTE, and the OEM discharge silencer is modified with a CNC-machined silencer delete, removing internal baffles to reduce restriction and slightly enhancing turbo sound. The result is a high-flow, fast-spooling hybrid that still installs as a plug-and-play IS38 replacement.

Key Features

• Hybrid upgrade based on OEM IHI IS38 turbocharger
• TTE billet-milled 6+6 blade compressor wheel (approx. 53 mm inlet)
• TTE high-flow, low-mass 9-blade turbine (approx. 53 mm outlet)
• CNC-machined silencer delete section in the compressor outlet
• Reinforced 360° thrust bearing and upgrade bearing pack
• High-speed VSR balanced, supplied with individual balance test document
• Proven output of around 535 PS+ at ~2.0 bar on 99 RON (with proper hardware and software)
• Made in Germany by TheTurboEngineers
• Requires ECU software recalibration

New Unit or Core Exchange

We offer the TTE535 either as a brand-new upgraded turbocharger or on a core exchange basis. You can purchase a new TTE535 unit and, after installation, return your original OEM IS38 turbocharger to us for a core refund, provided that the core and housings are in suitable condition for refurbishment (no cracks, heavy damage or missing components).

Alternatively, you can make the delivery quicker by sending your stock core for us beforehand and we’ll convert that to brand new TTE535 unit for you.

All core units must be genuine IHI IS38 turbos. Housings and actuator must be present and usable. The final refund amount depends on the inspected condition of the returned core.

Actuator Selection

On MQB cars there are different generations of IS38 actuator. Please ensure you select the correct actuator type when ordering (e.g. square vs. rounded actuator housing). If you are unsure, compare your original turbo to the photo below or contact us before purchase.

Notes

• For VAG 2.0 TSI / 1.8 TSI EA888.3 MQB engines originally equipped with IS38, or converted to IS38 hardware
• ECU software calibration is mandatory
• Suitable supporting modifications (fuel system, cooling, exhaust, clutch/DSG, etc.) are strongly recommended
• Motorsport / tuning part – not TÜV approved for public road use