For MK8 GTI, Golf R, and 8Y Audi S3 owners, the wait is finally over. Unitronic® has just announced the upcoming release of its Unlocked DQ381.2 TCU, bringing cutting-edge transmission tuning capabilities to vehicles previously locked out of performance software upgrades.
If your vehicle is equipped with the factory-locked “401” TCU — typically found in 2022+ MQB Evo models built after February 2022 — you’ve likely run into roadblocks trying to upgrade your transmission software. Unitronic’s latest solution removes that limitation entirely, letting you unlock the true potential of your transmission.

The new Unlocked DQ381.2 TCU is a plug-and-play replacement unit designed to bypass the locked bootloader found in certain OEM transmissions. This TCU comes preloaded with Unitronic’s TCU Performance Software, giving drivers immediate access to advanced features like:

• Increased clutch clamping pressure (up to 600Nm)
• Advanced torque management
• Quicker, more responsive gear shifts
• Optimized Drive and Sport shift maps
• Adjustable dual-setpoint Launch Control
• Gear display in the cluster

Whether you're a weekend warrior or a daily commuter who just wants a sharper, more engaging driving experience, this TCU upgrade will make your DSG transmission feel completely reborn.

For many enthusiasts, the appeal is simple: unleash your car’s full potential. Factory TCU limitations can restrict how much power your car can put to the ground, how efficiently it shifts, and how responsive it feels. But with Unitronic’s unlocked TCU, those barriers disappear.

In particular, cars with the locked “401” bootloader have been left out of the tuning game — until now. This upgrade allows those previously unsupported vehicles to benefit from the same world-class TCU tuning Unitronic has been known for.

Swapping the TCU is a straightforward job for those with mechanical experience, especially with the optional Unitronic service kit, which includes:

• Required DSG fluid and hardware
• Tools to detach the TCU from the mechatronic unit
• Optional upgrade to CNC-machined oil tubes to replace failure-prone OEM plastic ones

Unitronic also provides an installation guide, though professional installation is recommended for best results.

To get the most out of your unlocked TCU, Unitronic TCU Performance Software is required. Whether you're upgrading an existing ECU + TCU combo or starting fresh, Unitronic offers up to $150 in DSG combo discounts to make the transition even smoother.

When ordering, be sure to provide your VIN, TCU ID, and TCU revision so the software can be properly configured for your specific vehicle.

Unitronic’s Unlocked DQ381.2 TCU is currently compatible with:

• 2022+ Volkswagen Golf R (EA888.4 MQB EVO)
• 2022+ Volkswagen GTI (EA888.4 MQB EVO)
• 2022+ Audi S3 (EA888.4 MQB EVO)

If you’ve been waiting to dial in your DSG for performance, now’s the time.

With this groundbreaking release, Unitronic bridges the gap for countless MQB EVO owners who’ve been sidelined by locked TCUs. This solution delivers real-world performance benefits, making your vehicle feel sharper, faster, and more connected than ever before.

Ready to take your transmission to the next level? Unlock your TCU, and unlock your car’s full performance potential.