APR Automatic Transmission Breather Adapter

APR Automatic Transmission Breather Adapters: Precision Protection for High-Performance DSG Transmissions

APR has built its reputation since 1997 as a global leader in aftermarket performance parts for Volkswagen Group vehicles — engineering solutions that don't just add power, but protect the drivetrain hardware that puts that power to the ground. One of the more unsung but critically important products in their lineup is the Automatic Transmission Breather Adapter, designed to address a well-documented weakness in factory DSG transmission breather systems.

Why the Factory Transmission Breather Falls Short

The factory transmission on vehicles like the DQ500-equipped VAG platform features a plastic breather system designed to allow for transmission fluid expansion and removal of gases — unfortunately, this system easily becomes taxed, causing transmission fluid to spew all over the engine bay. For enthusiasts running modified or performance-tuned vehicles, the problem is amplified: higher operating temperatures accelerate fluid expansion, putting even more stress on the stock plastic breather components.

The APR Solution: DQ500 Transmission Catch Can and Breather System

APR fixes this problem through the use of an easy-to-install and compact catch can system. The larger can collects the expanded fluids and allows for venting of trapped gases through a breather filter. The can is larger than stock and fluids enter at an angle to help prevent the fluids from spraying through the breather filter — and when possible, the transmission fluid simply drains back into the transmission. This self-managing design keeps the engine bay clean and the transmission properly sealed without requiring frequent manual servicing.

The flagship product in this category is the APR DQ500 Transmission Catch Can and Breather System (MS100187), purpose-built for the DQ500 DSG/S Tronic transmission found in a wide range of Audi, Volkswagen, SEAT, and Škoda performance models. The system is a direct, compact fit that reflects APR's broader engineering philosophy of solving real-world problems with elegant, vehicle-specific hardware.

APR's Engineering Pedigree

Founded in 1997, APR is the global leader in performance aftermarket products for Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT, Škoda, Porsche, and other vehicles — developing and manufacturing hardware, software, calibration, and data-logging tools for engine and transmission controllers, including intakes, exhaust systems, intercoolers, turbocharger systems, suspension, brake systems, wheels, and more. That deep familiarity with transmission control systems is precisely what makes APR's hardware solutions, like their breather adapter, so well-suited to high-performance applications. They understand not just how these transmissions behave at stock tune, but how they respond under elevated boost and power levels.

APR was founded in 1997 with a corporate philosophy of Innovation, Integrity, and Excellence, with a sole mission to provide the highest quality and most highly engineered aftermarket performance products available for Porsche, Audi, and Volkswagen vehicles — ensuring the ultimate driving experience for enthusiasts.

Who Needs an APR Transmission Breather Adapter?

• Owners of DQ500 DSG-equipped vehicles experiencing fluid contamination in the engine bay
• Performance-tuned VW and Audi drivers running elevated power levels that stress the factory breather system
• Enthusiasts seeking a clean, permanent solution rather than repeated cleanup and stock part replacement
• Track-day drivers and weekend warriors who demand reliable drivetrain protection under sustained high-load conditions

If you're looking to safeguard your DSG transmission from the inside out, the APR Automatic Transmission Breather Adapter is one of the most targeted and effective upgrades available for the DQ500 platform. Browse the full selection below or explore the complete APR brand catalog and the broader Automatic Transmission Breather Adapter category for all available fitments.