Common Faults in the 6-Speed DSG Automatic Transmission
The transverse six-speed DSG transmission, also known as DQ250, is a dual-clutch automatic transmission that is found in vehicles by a number of manufacturers. These manufacturers include Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, and Seat. The DQ250 is a dual-clutch transmission that employs a combination of manual transmission gears and automatic transmission clutches in order to gain the benefits of both.
This particular transmission is old news, having been replaced by newer versions, but it has been used in so many vehicles that are still on the road today that it is most definitely still relevant.
So, what happens when this very popular transmission goes bad?
How the DSG Transmission Works
To defeat your enemy, you must understand your enemy. So it is with transmission faults.
Before we get into the faults, we’ll briefly touch on how the DSG transmission works, and how it’s different from other transmissions.
A traditional automatic transmission uses a number of clutch packs to produce the desired output ratio. This works fine, but it has drawbacks, one of the biggest being fuel efficiency. Conversely, manual transmissions use solid metal gears and a single manually operated clutch. This setup creates less resistance and better fuel efficiency, but it means the driver has to deal with pesky clutch pedals and gear levers.
DSG 6 Speed Demonstration
DSG stands for Direct-Shift Gearbox, and it incorporates the best of both worlds into its design. Using an advanced electro-hydraulic control module to control clutch application and gear shifting, the DSG can bring the driving comfort of a full automatic to the table while still getting the greater efficiency of the manual-style gears. Furthermore, it makes use of a dual clutch assembly, where one clutch is responsible for even numbered gears and the other for odd-numbered gears, improving shifting quality further.
Note: This article is concerned specifically with the DQ250 variant of DSG transmission. There are other variants, such as the 7 speed DQ200, and the inline 0B5 transmission.
DSG (DQ250) Common Faults
The most common faults I have experienced with this particular transmission.
Juddering/Shuddering
Before we get into the transmission fault here, there is another cause of juddering which is far more common, and it is outside of the transmission itself. If you experience the juddering mainly when you start the engine and when the car is idling, often accompanied by a loud clattering noise, the problem is likely in the dual mass flywheel which sits between the transmission and the engine. The flywheel consists of two plates that can move a small amount in relation to each other. This provides a cushioning effect when torque is transferred from the engine to the transmission. When that flywheel wears down, and the amount of movement is too great, you get a juddering/shuddering sensation.
It’s important not to leave this fault for too long. If the two flywheel plates sheer off from each other, your vehicle will lose drive entirely.
If your flywheel is fine, however, and the juddering sensation is most noticeable on gearshifts—particularly at lower speeds—the problem likely lies in the dual clutch assembly. Unfortunately, it’s a simple matter of wear and tear, and there’s not much to be done for it other than replace it.
There are kits available that allow for the replacement of many of the components of the clutch assembly, and oftentimes that will cure the fault. However, sometimes the wear and tear is in the non-replaceable components, and a new assembly is needed. In my experience, it’s much more practical to just replace the whole assembly. You might save money by getting a repair kit rather than a clutch, but if the damage ends up being in the non-replaceable components, you’ll still need to buy a complete assembly and that money saved becomes money wasted.
Mechatronic Failure
Default Mode—also known as limp mode and failsafe mode—is a failure state of the transmission where it detects a fault and limits itself to one gear (typically third) to limit damage to the transmission. This will often be accompanied by an indicator on the dashboard, such as flashing “PRNDS” lights. If your transmission has gone into default, there will be trouble codes in there to explain why it’s done this. You’ll need to get your vehicle scanned with a good diagnostic machine to find out what those codes are.
If the codes mention “clutch limits reached” (or something similar), there’s a good chance the problem is your clutch. Typically (though not always) this won’t occur until after the aforementioned juddering/shuddering fault. If the codes mention “adaptations,” it’s possible that your problem may be fixed with an adaptation reset. You’ll need to find someone with a good VAG diagnostic tool for this.
If the codes mention any sensors, gear ratios, or unexpected mechanical disengagements, the problem is almost certainly your mechatronic. The mechatronic is the name given to the electro-hydraulic control unit that is responsible for controlling the gearbox, and it’s a very expensive lump. Fortunately, there are many companies that can repair this fault, and a quick search of “DSG Mechatronic Repair” should yield plenty of results. It should be noted, however, that these companies are limited in what they can test for and repair in these mechatronic units. I have been involved in a number of situations where the repair company tested the mechatronic and found to be “ok,” yet the fault was eventually cured with a replacement mechatronic. Bear in mind, with these repair companies, “tested ok” means they couldn’t find a fault. Not that there’s nothing wrong with it.
One particularly common symptom of a faulty DQ250 mechatronic is a partial or total loss of reverse, so be on the lookout for that as a strong indicator that the mechatronic is failing.
Noisy Bearings
The mechanical workings of the DSG—the physical gears and syncros—don’t tend to fail very often in my experience. I have seen a number of instances of bearings wearing down, however. This typically results in a metallic noise when driving.
I have known DSG transmissions with this symptom to be driven for quite some time with no ill-effects other than quite irritating driving noise. However, I most definitely wouldn’t recommend you leave this problem unattended. If the mechanical components of the DSG did fail, it would be pretty catastrophic for the transmission.
The fix is a bearing kit, assuming the problem is dealt with promptly, and no other damage has been caused.
Also...
One or two other useful bits of information about DSG transmission faults.
Five Things You Shouldn't Do With a Dual Clutch Transmission
It’s also worth noting that, on occasion, a simple adaptation reset can fix a number of minor issues, such as poor shifting quality. Adaptations are little adjustments that your mechatronic makes to things like how much pressure it applies to the clutches to compensate for wear and tear or driving style. Sometimes things can get a little out of whack, and in those cases, a reset of the adaptation values—followed by a proper drive cycle—can sometimes be enough to clear the issues up.
One fault I have seen a few times in DSG vehicles is the loss of ability to start the vehicle, accompanied by a fault code relating to the park/neutral switch. The problem is that the mechatronic is getting bad information regarding the position of the gear selector, and won’t let you start the car because it can’t be sure you are in park or neutral. The affected part here is actually in the gear selector itself, rather than the transmission. Though it could also be a wiring or communication fault.
And that’s the end of my six-speed DSG faults hub. I hope you found this information helpful, and if you have anything to ask (or add!) please drop a comment below.
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. Content is for informational or entertainment purposes only and does not substitute for personal counsel or professional advice in business, financial, legal, or technical matters.
Comments
Hi John
Great article.
Im wondering if you have ever heard of transmission fluid leaking from around the connection plug of the mechatronic. I have a late 2008 skoda superb with 6speed dsg which has covered 115000 miles. Gear changes arent effected yet but ive been told that a replacement unit is required.
Any thoughts
Thanks
Matt
I have a VW Golf 7 with seven speed dsg. While driving goes into neutral. I then move gearlever to park, reverse and drive, it goes again. Fault code P0841 Transmission Fluid Pressure Sensor/Switch A Range/Performance
Any help out there?
Good afternoon,
I need to know how far has anybody Wet without changing their tiny bell on their jetta diesel. Mine currently has not been changed it has 81000 miles on it and it has never had a transmission flush. Please respond with any thoughts of what damage I get Cause and how far I get actually get away with it because I cannot afford to maintain this vehicle?
I bought a certified 2014 jetta TDI with the DSG transmission and there's no record that the transmission fluid as ever been changed and when I bought it it had 56000 miles on it now it has 80k. I was just informed of this is a very expensive service. Will Volkswagen still cover my bumper to bumper warranty, if something happens to it after I Get the service done immediately?
Hello.
I have to get a new dsg box for my 2009 mk5 golf r32. The code on my box is "KQA"which happens to be the rarest box to find.
I've been told that the code has to match the original on the car or it will not work electronically, even though there is a few other gearboxes that will bolt on.
Any help will be highly appreciated as I really don't know where to go for now :(
Thanks!
J.
My tdi passat does not communite with dashboard.
Hi,
If I can get my hands on a 6 speed DSG gearbox with mechatronics to build into another project, would I be able to get it to work?
What additional items would I need?
Any luck in repairing this guys?
I have an Audi RS3 2012, and it has started to give me this error message that "Clutch overheat. Pleasfe stop vehicle"!
Hi my vw t5 semi auto gearboxwill only go in reverse when warm and when in first will not engage van has 260000 miles
Very helpful
- AUTHOR
Hello Ernest,
I would definitely not advise buying a complete new gearbox without diagnosing the issue myself. My advice would be to have it diagnosed professionally before doing anything as drastic as that. It could just be short on oil, or need a replacement clutch pack. Also, depending on the OBDII scanner you are using, you might not be seeing all the fault codes.
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I have a a problem with my dsg (DQ250) it changes from 1st gear until the 4th gear it doesn't take the 5th and 6th gears what can be possible be a problem?
I have read through the post and i want to acknowledge that i have learnt a lot.
However, my concern is i have a VW Tiguan 2.0 TSI 2009 model. Recently it started misfiring. I changed the ignition Coils and plugs and the misfiring stoped. But sadly it has a "hard start" and it can't pull. The pick-up is so slow and dragging. I have tried to diagnise the problem with my OBDll but nothing is being detected. So am being advised to buy a complete gearbox, is it necessary to buy the complete gearbox?
Hi, I have 2008 Skoda Octavia. Gear change is perfect but very difficult to start off from the stop position without a chuck. I also notice a slight shudder (like wheel balance off) at around 80Km/h. I have had the wheel balance checked on all four and they are perfect. Could the two be gearbox related and if so any ideas where to look.
Hi,good day for all. I read Your comments on possibility DSG faults and I would like to find out if You can possibly help me identity mine . I have Audi A3 Tfsi 2009 85k miles automatic transmission running very well no problem at all changing gears properly. Up to yesterday when after day tip I decide quick car hand wash . No power wash just simple water from hose. After this within 2 hours I was try start engine and when i turn ignition on dashboard shows ESP fault and my car loss ability to start and on Park P position gear selector is motionless to position D and P letter just flashing pulsing read. My opinion that water caused problem One fuse from the engine compartment was gone so I replace a fuse next day after all day drying a car in full sunny day and new fuse gone as well.I read all Your suggestion and the loss ability to start the vehicle when mechatronic is getting bad information and won't let me start the car it is Yours words.
What would your advice be electrician first or seeking a specialist for DSG
Thank You
Best Regards
Robert
I have a 2008 WV Passat 6 speed trains and its puck oil out of one of the fake ports. What can I do to fix it. ??
hi ,
my gti mk6 have a problem...
first problem my car cant basic setting the DSG, then i found the problem, my fork bearing was spoil
then i change a new fork bearing and now can basic setting..
after that 2nd problem after changing new fork bearing, now my car shifting jerking and cant shifting from 1 to 2 by Tiptronic...
why should i do ???
please help
thanks
Hi
I have a ford galaxy 1.9 tdi automatic 2006. I am a mechanic but i dont have much knowledge about automatic transmission. I replaced the mechatronic. There is a long green rod that is connected to the gear lever and its wires behind the mechatronic. Somehow the rod turned to the opposite direction and because of this when i start the car and shift gears (2,3,4,D,N,P) it doesnt let the car move and no gear engages. When i move the rod, which has different round edges for each gear to lock in place, to the right position the gear lever above that doesnt connect to the wire properly as there is a difference in length between the screw and round rubber part connected to the gear lever wire.
Hi there I have a Ford Galaxy tcdi 2012 it has a 6 speed PowerShift gear I have a problem with my reverse gear sometimes it will take the reverse gear most of the Times it doesn't take it I have to shift the lever up and down until the reverse gear is engaged can somebody please tell me what the problem could be thank you
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Good Day
A GF of mine have a 2012 Jetta 2.0 Fsi tiptronic
How ever the problem is it only goes to 1st and 3rd gear
Any suggestions of where to start at looking for the problem
Just bought a 06 GTi for my daughter. PO advised has had jerky starts and judder shifting in lower gears for years. Also said that it was not noticeable during colder months. In the States so cannot confirm due to summer time.
There are no transmission faults. I previously owned a 06 GLI w/DSG and never had these issues.
If a Mech goes bad, it should throw a code, correct?
So far, I have not been able to locate a decent US supplier of mech's or re-manufacturer's.
Do you have a link to a source that you trust?
Regards
Thanks John for that insite. My 2010 VW Jetta is at the dealer with a transmission fault. The service representative said it will cost CAD$7500 to replace after importing from Germany. My question was, "What happened to the old crusty mechanics who used to take them apart and replace with various cogs, crowns and pinions?". The answer I got was technicians for this work are not qualified to repair them. I like the mechatronic replacement idea. I'll suggest it as a plonker with five minutes of internet instruction. :)
57 reg Golf plus TDI
How can we avoid facing problems with the dsg gearbox ??
Just bought a golf gt tdi 2.0 liter auto and drove it away and the kickdown was working fine one minute then about 10 minutes later poor revs no kickdown at all very slow acceleration until I managed to pick up speed but struggled to attain speed in low gears from 2nd to 3rd any ideas on what the problem might be No warning lights or error codes present on dashboard.
I a VW with a seal leak. Is a 6 speed dsg gear. this may damage the gear Box?
- AUTHOR
Perishable parts (seals, pistons, etc) wearing is a common cause of oil leakage, yes.
Transmission damper wearing out and causing transmission oil to leak. Is this a valid observation made by mechanics?
Hi I’m having bad issues with my 2014 a3 tdi s line, I’m experiencing really bad shuddering/vibration on acceleration in sports, dynamic, manual mode from 30-70mph I’m 4th, 5th, 6th, but in economical mode I don’t experience any of this but now the transmission is making a really loud rattling noise under acceleration same gears in economical mode but no shuddering/vibration until sports, dynamic, manual mode is engages can anyone help me please
I mistakenly omitted this info. I am driving a 2014 VW Passat 1.8TSI.
Peter
On start up in the morning i get a bad shuddering when driving for about the first 1/2 mile. After coming up to temperature everything smooths out and i have no further problems. I took it in to the VW agent here and after diagnostics they told me i have to change clutch and flywheel. I asked the senior tech how does he explain the problems going away when the car comes up to temperature and he says he cant explain. What can i do. This is very costly if i have to change clutch, flywheel and pilot bearing.
Thanks in advance...Peter
Hi, I have problems with my Audi TTS 6 speed automatic. The PRND lights occasionally flash when it won’t go into reverse. When starting the car from cold there will be a clinching noise twice and won’t engage into park, I have to turn the engine off and back on for it to behave. Would this be a mechatronic problem or clutch pack issue?
Is the S-Tronic on a 2011-12 Audi A3 a good unit? Any specific reason to avoid?
Hi..I got dsg skoda rapid.yesterday I observed clattering sound and also just once from neutral to pick up it went to Straight to d2.i switch off the car and wait for two minutes and restart again.it went well. But today again noise came. Normally my engine temp is sound 90 degree but twice it went to 95 degree. I have drove my car to 103000 kk
Hi I have skoda Laura and I’ll sown fault code in gear box C06E4 what is checking
hello, my car has no strength between 1300 and 2000 rpms, the problem has been increasing over time.
it's a dsg dq250
Thank you very much.
hello, my car has no strength between 1300 and 2000 rpms, the problem has been increasing over time.
it's a dsg dq250
Thank you very much.
i have a gti 5 ,its rejects other magtronics
I have a 2009 VW Passat CC TDI 2-0lt i have had a problem with Limp Mode when you kick it back mainly with uphill driving and also it is hesitant to start when the engine has warmed up after turning it off, the DSG transmission has been changed but the engine management light stays on since i kicked it back to pass another car so could you tell me what the problem could be. ?
I have an 08 jetta 2.0 wolfsberg, it stalled 4 times the other day, when it stalled the EPC light would flash when it lost power. But would start right back up. I noticed that the prnds was flashing when i started the car and put it in gear. But was not doing any of the shakking or symptoms that were listed above. Had a code for mass airflow sensor. Replaced it. Seems better well at least the car did not stall or loose power, it did act like it was going to stall twice but did not. Drove about 10 miles with no stalls or loss of power.
I have a 746 code: solenoid a off . Icar was recently purchased and i serviced tranny. 4k miles later limp mode only when warm and code. Wirks fine if cooled down. What u think? Fresh oul loosened dirt and needs additional flush?
P0746 code solenoid a off. Is it possible debris from contaminated fluid is obstructing s passage and can be fixed by a flush? 2007 eos 6 dsg Michrolg@gmail.com
I have a ford galaxy titanium 2016. When I put into drive. It's move but within 20 second its loose power.
But when I drive Manually 1st gear works. 2nd gear not work losses power. 3rd gear works, 4th gear not work, 5th gear works, but 6th gear lose power.
Other wise everything is perfect order.
What is the problem could be.
Thank you
Hi I'm driving 2013 audi a4 2.0t quattro stronic when i revers is got scratching
noise what can that be.
Hi I’m wanting to purchase a 2011 Vw Passat 1.8 tsi dsg . Anything I need to know about this car ? It has 133000km on the clock
buna seara am o problema la un passat b6 2010 dsg automata cand se schimba viteza nu mai apare in bord cand se schimba vitezele.care ar fi problema
Hi
I have Golf 5 GTI GSG box. and it was replaced exchange unit.does box need to be bleeded it like the brakes???
Hey John i have a 2010 Passat tsi with the 6 speed dsg trans. My car has a weird problem. Car will drive fine some times, i will be able drive in all six gears for a time, then the car will down shift to 3rd and not go pass that gear. i had no codes when this happened. Now i get a code 17106 the prnd flashes When this happens i cant get pass 3rd gear as well. But again will drive fine Dont know what do right now. Please help
Hi John, thanks for this piece. I have a 2010 passat with 2.0 TSI engine and DSG transmission. Suddenly the transmission stopped. I diagnosed and got these codes
17106, 18201, 17100, 18222, 18227 and 16988. Am being advised to replace the transmission. Is this correct and what could have led to this so i can prevent subsequent occurrence. I just bought the car into Nigeria about 2weeks ago.
Thanks
Hello John, Thank you for your clear explaination! I have a question though. I have an audi tt 3.2 with the dsg DQ250. The old mechatronic was broken (the ECU in te mechatronic itself). Now i placed another one but the car drives only in reverse and 1st gear when its about to shift it goes in limp mode PRNDS flashing. Is it maybe the coding that is wrong? it gives two databus faultcodes in vcds. and if so, is it possible to code it the rightway without the need to acces and retrieve data (coding) from the old Mechatronic?
I look forward to your insight.
Kind regards
Hey there my car revs by itself plus it sometimes hesitates to drive smoothly
Hi there the problem i have is when driving my 2013 powershift Ford galaxy when driving for 5 minutes i get a transmission error and lose all gears and have to pull up on recycling the ignition it disappears and car drives fine until the next time I have t o use it once its been stood for a while
Hello, I need some help with a VW T5 DSG 6speed. I changed the head on the car couple of days ago, yesterday the car started stalling when I put it on drive or reverse. It even drops the revs when I move the car from park to drive. It’s like it disengage the accelerator when I put on drive or reverse as it does not accelerate at all.
- AUTHOR
Hello Ramon. The cable is unlikely; if the transmission had somehow been pulled into neutral by a faulty cable, you wouldn't have been able to drive it home without physically getting it OUT of neutral first. It is possible the selector itself could be the problem although that is not a very a common fault. I would recommend letting an electrician poke at some wires before spending any serious money on new selectors or mechatronics.
- AUTHOR
Hello again. I'm sorry I couldn't tell you if the flywheel on the Caddy and Golf are the same. If the transmission and engine match up (same codes) I can't think of a reason why the flywheels wouldn't also match, but I just don't know for certain.
Hi and thank you for your replies.
With the cost of parts so high in Aus A$1900 for ta dual mass flywheel.
We are now looking at doing a replacement of the whole DSG system.
I agree the dual mass flywheel needs to be replaced the mechatronic. and the wiring are the possible all the faulty parts. We have found a very low milage Sports 2L Golf of mid 2007 as our parts donor. The dual mass flywheel in the golf and the caddy measure exactly the same as each other but have one digit different part numbers. Every thing else seems the same like 02E 301 107 gearbox numbers. If this exchange works out a going car that will be great. Of course over our winter months in Australia. (Your Summer) I intend to test and rebuild the mega replace the wiring and order a dual mass flywheel on line.
Have you any warning about the dual mass flywheel for the 2L Golf being different to the Caddy one. The Caddy is Dec 2006 and the golf May 2007.
Best Wishes
Peter
- AUTHOR
Hello. Sorry I would need to know which transmission is in your vehicle before taking a guess at the problem. However if you have the aforementioned DSG 6 speed and are getting a solenoid fault, the quote you were given may be to replace the mechatronic unit as a whole, rather than waste time and money trying to pin point the specific problem, which can sometimes end up more expensive in the long run.
- AUTHOR
Hello. If there is nothing mechanical broken in the transmission (ie; bits of metal in the oil) then the speed sensor fault would indicate a faulty ECU/Mechatronic. However the ECU doesn't typically cause a noise like you described, so it's possible you could have multiple faults on your hands. The dual mass fly wheel would seem to be the most likely culprit for the noise you described. The state of the flywheel can be checked before replacing... though you would need to remove the transmission to do so.
- AUTHOR
Hello, it sounds like an adaptation issue. If you have not had the adaptations reset, I would try that first.
Can Someone pls hello me, I just bought a used Passat And sometimos ir doesnt shift at all from first speed, then You change it to auto stick And change to third, put it back to drive And it works just fine until you turn it off again. Passat cc 2010 2.0 T
Just bought 1.6Tdi 2009 plate..automatic. It was gone for a day and now had ‘service now’ and shifts horribly between D1/3/5/7 only...ok in tiptronic but sports mode it won’t shift at all...I’m taking it back to the dealer but is this something I should walk away from?
Hello And Best wishes.
These DSG boxes for me are not at all straight forward. And my friend doing the work is in the same boat.
WE have a big problem in finding the fault from the symptoms we have found in 2006 1.9 Diesel Caddy 02E box. That went into limp mode.
1 When the box is cold it works fine in all gears.
2 when it gets hot then no reverse. but still travels at 80kph or 50mph.
3 Then a little further Limp Mode.
3 We had a 2 solenoid faults in Mega unit and replaced them. and those faults cleared. one had a low elect power.
5 We put in new oil and filter 2 years from last oil change.
6 We have a 18154 fault that does not go away. Autel
On my friends Scanner it gives a 0609 ECU speed sensor fault
7 When I listen to the box in Park engine on I can hear some thing like a kitchen sieve and Cutlery Knives, Forks, rotating. Not as loud as the engine. The stethoscope cannot narrow down the area of the sound because of the engine sound is too strong. So i think it is in the clutch area. away from the outside of the Engine & gearbox. One cannot hear this sound with the window open sitting in side the cab.
I think we will need to do a clutch job. and Not the flywheel job.
But we would like to make shore it is not a flaky relay or some dumb thing causing it. The thing that comes to mind is the internal wiring in the box that may be the fault this was a known problem in earlier VWs. No thing hurts like throwing parts and money at something we are not shore is the problem!!!
Here is the limp mode description
1. When it first occurs you are traveling at 60kPH
2. engine flared to 5000RPM
3. Speed dropped to 20kPH.
4. In this state it could flare to 5000RPM but would not go faster than 20 kPH.
5. The whole multi-function Display flashing
Any ideas
We are in Perth West Australia.
Hello And Best wishes.
These DSG boxes for me are not at all straight forward. And my friend doing the work is in the same boat.
WE have a big problem in finding the fault from the symptoms we have found in 2006 1.9 Diesel Caddy 02E box.
1 When the box is cold it works fine in all gears.
2 when it gets hot then no reverse. but still travels at 80kph or 50mph.
3 We had a 2 sensor faults in Mega unit and replaced them. and those faults cleared. one had a low elect power.
4 We put in new oil and filter 2 years from last oil change.
5 We have a 18154 fault that does not go away. Autel
On my friends Scanner it gives a 0609 ECU speed sensor fault
6 When I listen to the box in Park engine on I can hear some thing like a kitchen sieve and Cutlery Knives, Forks, rotating. Not as loud as the engine. The stethoscope cannot narrow down the area of the sound because of the engine sound is too strong. So i think it is in the clutch area. away from the outside of the Engine & gearbox. One cannot hear this sound with the window open sitting in side the cab.
I think we will need to do a clutch job. and Not the flywheel job.
But we would like to make shore it is not a flaky relay or some dumb thing causing it. The thing that comes to mind is the internal wiring in the box that may be the fault this was a known problem in earler VWs.
Any ideas
We are in Perth West Australia.
Hi
I have VW polo 2009 1.4 recently I been having a problem with it as PRNDS starts flashing with emissions sign ,took it to gearbox specialist and it is dignosed as solenoid valve V6 is open or Short .
Please help me as been quoted £1400-1800 .
I have bought a 2012 golf R with a stage 2+ tune. The car goes well with 0-100 klm/hr in about 4 seconds. The shifting is very precise and no issues with maximum effort fast driving on a dirt track. But, on start up before the engine and gearbox comes to normal operating temperature it can be jerky sometimes when you pull off, particularly in reverse and sometimes even kangaroo hops, so that I have to bring the car to a full stop and start off again. Is this a clutch pack issue or is it the flywheel issue?
My 13 plate ford focus had a clutch recall. They up graded the clutch and it has lasted 10 months and less than 5000 miles . They won't put another clutch in as the car is 4 months out of warranty. Ford's engineer told me the plates get a film on them which causes the juddering and if I boot the car it may clear the film off of the plates. It's a automatic so how am I meant to boot and slip the clutch to clear it .. what a joke
The flywheel part makes sence. It has a hard time switching from neutral (still in drive mode) to first gear and when this problem first occurred it made a clunk noise from park to reverse to drive. Is there any other problem that can be diagnosed from this?
I have a mk5 golf gti dsg when pulling away you have to take it to 1.5k-2k revs to pull away ! if you are on a hill and pulling away it judders really bad and feels like it's going to stall and does the same in R , been to 1 company and then said I need the mechatronics repaired or replaced witch is not cheap! could i get another gearbox and have that fitted and would it need to be programmed in?? anyone had this issue ??
Hi. I have a VW Scirocco 2009. 2.0 Tdi, DSG 02E gearbox which had this code 19143/P2711/010001-Unexpected disengagement gear. 2937-Fault code in transmission. 9708-Sensor for actuator 2. P17E1 00 ( 096 ) mechanical malfunction. 8090-Gear selector 2 can not be regulated. Problem is some time Reverser is lost. At ther beginning I send Mechatronic to a holland company ACTronics and say it is ok 100 % but I do not believe them. i have rebuilt gearbor whit new clutch kit, gaskets, filters and oil and after assembly and installed in the car and erase codes now it has this other one: C06E4- unknown code.
I have drive car aroubnd 100 kms and at the moment reverse is ok but after to see your web site I am not very happy. What do you thionk? Mechatronic may be yet wrong ?
Thanks in advance
Regards
Jose
So does it mean i need to replace that gearbox or there is something that can be done
i have the same issue my car being a VW POLO TSI DSG 2016 model i started having the issue on 1000km. the dealership tells me that all DSG gearboxes operate in this manner according to them the issue to resolved but I experience all the issues raised above.
Does anyone know if they have just replaced the friction plates and been ok with DSG 02e? i.e. reused the steel plates etc. and only replaced the frictions?
Hello Scotty.
I would like to know if it's possible to replace Audi A6 automatic 2.5 TDI gearbox with a Audi A6 3.0 TDI automatic gearbox both 2003 models.
I have a 2006 Audi A3 just recently noticed then once I let the car warm up in the morning and start on my way to work that the transmission wants to stay in gear I have to almost let off the gas completely for it to shift sometimes if I'm rolling up on a stop sign and I just let off it will actually stay in gear the whole time until I stop I've been having to put it in manual occasionally to get it to shift a transmission service about 3000 miles ago I do my transmission services every 40,000 miles and I have almost a hundred and fifty thousand miles on the car could this be caused from not having enough transmission fluid or maybe the shifter module is going bad any input would be appreciated
Dear John,
Thank you so much and i have a issue with my Passat 2008 done about 100K from last month the car just looses power on the drive without any specific occurrence and would be able to drive once the car is stopped from the free rolling and restarted.
please give your insights.
Thanks.
Hi my DSG Mechatronic auto gearbox don’t all ways work in reverse I have to tune car off and back on for it to work some time
Hi John,
thank you for a great article.
I'm having the same problem as other owners of the VAG group in combination with DSG6. It is a metallic sound that can be heard with a lowered window. Currently it can only be reproduced on the bumpy roads (cobblestone, stony roads, speed bumps, etc.).
Seat mechanic claims that it is related to the second clutch being loose and is "perfectly normal". The company claims that it is not a problem and does not want to replace the faulty part on the guarantee. The "solution" was to mute the sound, but the noise still can be heard as in these videos (it is not as loud as before):
https://goo.gl/pSdrFc - noise heard especially at the beginning (5-15 sec.)
https://goo.gl/YNvZqE - long, noise heard all time
Car details: Leon X-Perience (year 2015) 4drive 1.8 TFSI DSG6. I started to hear it since more or less 30K km. Now car has 48K so is pretty new.
In my opinion such sound is unacceptable, especially in a pretty new car. Can anyone confirm that it is an abnormal behaviour?
Could it be related to the faulty bearings?
Best regards.
I have a 59 plate skoda Fabia 1600cc auto when travelling in top and try to accelerate the engine hunts has in misfiring I have been told its advised that the gearbox oil should be changed regulaury
Hi John. I had an 2012 plate Audi Avant 1.9 TDi with 6 speed DSG. Sometimes when cold, it would take a few seconds to pick up or engage. If at traffic lights or a roundabout, the temptation was to then press down on the accelerator. It would then ‘catch’ and you would shoot forward. I have taken it to an Audi garage to have it checked but they can find nothing wrong with it. Many thanks.
I had a 2009 mk6 golf gti 2.0L with a DSG. Had only done 35,000km
When the car was hot especially in peak hour traffic when moving at low speed it would jerk and shutter. This would also happen when the car was hot and you were reversing.
The fault was recorded several times before the warranty expired and went back to the dealer several times. Each time the dealer said there was no fault and every time they tested the car it wouldn’t happen to them.
Dealer kept denying there were no issues with the gearbox and a few months later the DSG gearbox fault scandal was released.
Very good comment.....appreciate your time.
Dear John,
I have a VW Touran with a 6 speed DSG Transmission. last year November I lost drive so when the car was picked up and check, I was told that the gear box is gone and they have to recondition it which they charged me £ 2500.00 plus vat for to do. In fact I went ahead with only because they offered me a 12000 miles or a 12 months warranty with the works. a couple of months later after the repair was done I began to hear a screeching and rattling noise from the engine compartment so I took it to two different garages who all confirmed the noise to be coming from the joint between the gearbox and the engine. Therefore I returned it to the garage that did the gear box repair works who have now reported that the noise is coming from the aluminium engine plate between the gear box and the engine and it has nothing to do with the works that they did and to replace that and fix the problem they are asking me to pay another £ 719.00 plus vat. When reconditioning the gear box they said that they are replacing all parts therefore I am first of all surprised that they are saying that part referred to as part of the works they aware doing doesn’t include this aluminium engine plate.
Is it true that the aluminium engine plate is not part of the gear box? Secondly is it right for them to have not replaced the aluminium plate as part of the gear box repair works they carried out. Thirdly can it not be that the damaged aluminium plate has not come about as a result of the works carried out.
Please I will appreciate your opinion on this matter to help me with the decision I will like to take on the issue, thanks.
Thanks Look forward to your reply
thank you so much for this useful ad hoping to find more and mord ads like it
I have a VW Passat 2007, 3.2 litre with an automatic DSG 6 gear box (or so i was told). Lately i have been getting an issue where when i start up and move the gear lever into drive or reverse, the vehicle does not move, and the gear indicator on the dashboard blinks on whatever gear i placed it in. To correct this, i must place the gear in manual low, neutral or park, then back into D1. This allows the car to function correctly. It happens very infrequent, but a cause for concern. My mechanic ran diagnostic scans and it came back with some transmissions errors, and he told me i should get a new gear clutch. Was this correct?
Good day, I'm almost at my witts end. I have a 2009 Eos 2.0T TSI with DSG6. In spring when I moved the car out of winter storage, I attempted to start the car with almost dead battery. Car rolled. A couple times and stopped. I charged the battery for a couple days, and it started fine. As I drove away, the car didn't shift. Now flashing PRNDS. I scanned the module and have a P1707- interference in mechatronic module. In an attempt to place basic settings, but group 61, and other 60's are not available. Unless the engine is NOT running. With koeo I can access grp61. I brought the car to the dealer (it's not too far, and I still have 1St and 3Rd) they say my mechatronic module is defective, but replacing it may not fix, so I should buy a used DSG from them for $3000. Instead, I bought a 02E927770AM mechatronic to replace my so-called defective 02E927770AJ. Because the software is different, I purchase the tune and program my new AM module to work with my Eos. Nothing has changed. I still have my P1707, and it doesn't shift. Battery ignition voltage and ground at DSG is 13.9 VDC, and doing an autoscan, the only other error is because I have aftermarket radio. Group 61 is still available when engine is off, but if I try to set basic, then start the car it is no longer. I don't know how to verify or logic on the DQ250, BUT, I'm not sure that's the issue. I need someone with experience who can help me, or another test I can perform to try and isolate my problem.
Thanks in advance,
Marcel.
- AUTHOR
Hello Christopher,
If the double clunk is difficult to reproduce it is almost certainly a software issue. Unfortunately, with a car that new, you're likely at the mercy of the dealer as they will be the only ones who can update the software or replace the computer that the software is on.
I would suggest getting one of their technicians to go out in the car with you and demonstrating the fault to them.
I have a new 2018 passat Rline with 20T engine with tiptronic trans. within 500 miles, I noticed a double clunk in down shift when coming to a stop. Dealer says they can't duplicate the problem and there are no recalls or bulletins out on the car. Can anyone help?
HELLO
I HAVE PROBLEM IN MY CAR IS THAT AT NORMAL RMP GEAR SHIFT TAKE PROPERLY BUT AT THE SUDDEN CASE OF ACCELERATION GEAR FROM 3 TO 4TH DISENGAGEMENT TAKES PLACE RPLY ME
Hello.
I have a strange behaviour on my DSG (Cross Touran 2.0 TDI 170HP 2009).
For the most part the DSG shifts gears perfectly, but sometimes it just wont shift up.
It is not between the same gears everytime but motsly ist between 3-4 or 4-5. Shifting down is never a problem.
The quick solution when this happens is to go to N and back to D again then it works again for a while.
When I change to manual it never fails to shift gears.
No fault codes found and the dealer just tell me to replace the DSG for more than the car is worth.
Anyone has the same problem or know how to solve it?
hello
I have been experiencing jerking on a 2009 Touran 1.4 tsi with a DSG transmission it jerking when I accelerate hard and also when I'm at gear 5 or 6 while my revs are low and I try to accelerate the engine check light comes on and off. Can dsg Issues set the engine check light or I'm having firing Issues.
Excellent, very informative site. Thanks. I look forward to seeing your answer. (has the DQ250 been updated for the Skoda Kodiaq 1.4 2WD? if so by what?)
Hi i have dsg dq250 in my 2007 passat 4motion v6 i am getting a code of pressure control solenoid B open or short to ground. P0776. I have replaced all valves and solenoids in mechatronic. Erased the code fault and when the car is cold it allows me to drive for about 4km then gose into limp mode trans light flash as will as parkbrake light on instrument panel, with message stating park brake fault check manual. Doing fault diagnostic check P0776 comes back up. Any ideas please
very helpful article and could save one from more expensive repairs
Hi, good day to all. I read your artical on possible DSG faults and i would like to find out if you can possibly help me identity mine. I have a VW Tiguan 2010 with an automatic DSG 7 gear box (or so i was told). Lately i have been getting an issue where when i start up and move the gear lever into drive or reverse, the vehicle does not move, and the gear indicator on the dashboard blinks on whatever gear i placed it in. To correct this, i must place the gear in manual low, neutral or park, then back into D1. This allows the car to function correctly. It happens very infrequent, but a cause for concern. My mechanic ran diagnostic scans and it came back with some transmissions errors, and he told me i should get a new gear clutch. Was this correct?
Thank you in advance.
I have a 2010 mkVI Volkswagen GTI. and I have issues possibly stemming from an egr valve, but I also have the limp mode that happens every so often. with an EPC signal light on the dashboard. i'm not sure what symptoms stem from EGR or DSG transmission but below are the prevalent issues.
-stalling at idle
-limp mode
-rpm lock at 5k or higher (not sure what to call this, but basically on some days, if the RPM's reach this high, or occasionally 4k rpms, it will refuse to go faster and it gets locked into a flutter of the rpm until the gas is released
-engine lag with most of the acceleration moments
-massive fluttering of the rpm during starting of the engine. (this one isn't common, but the last time it popped up, it was so bad that I turn the car on, immediately it wants to stall, so I tap the gas, which sends it into crazy mode and it jumps from 1k to 3k, drops, jumps, drops, jumps randomly. if I press and hold the gas, and slowlllly push harder, the jumps are smaller. if I push down allll the way. the jumps and drops are just as frequent but in a smaller range. 3.5k-4k rpms. after two weeks of that. I eventually got it out of the slump of not starting by holding the gas all the way down for about two to three minutes and it cleared up and stopped jumping.)
Hi
Great post- thanks for your expert help. I have a 2012 Jetta GLI with 160,000km - well serviced DSG fluid changes etc but now has just started juddering between up-shifts on acceleration. I took it to my local tranny shop - they say nothing is wrong no codes found. Any advice? EdB
Hi John!
Very interesting reading this post, thank you for sharing!
I'm currently having a lot of issues with my Passat TDI with DSG from 2015.
I bought it used from a dealer in 2017 and I said from day one there was something wrong with the DSG. They kept denying it. Until now when the car started loosing reverse partially. SOMETIMES with uneven periods in between, sometimes with just a day interval sometimes 2-3 weeks the car just died when trying to reverse from parked. rolled about 0,5 meters then "chopped" and died. Then it got worse and started to happen in D1 gear aswell.. But still mainly noticed when car was really cold after a nights standstill. There has been 1 or two occations with strange sound but this is out of maybe 20-30 occations.
The thing is the mechatronic has been factory reset once. This shortly fixed the issue of the "choppy" working of he gearbox, but at that time we hadn't started experiencing the issues with R gear. This time the repair shop was unable to get the problem resolved by resetting it so they are quite sure it's the mechatronic that has failed.
I'm just thinking how do I know it's the mechatronic and not the dual mass flywheel, because some of the symptoms I think could add up for any of the 2 faults.
Do you have any good tip of symptoms that could turn our eyes more against one of the two?
Just reading this post makes me more certain my repair shop is on the right track with replacing the mechatronic unit, since you mention partial or total loss of R gear is a common symptom!
Hi John
It is with great interest I read your detailed information related to Common faults with VW DSG gearboxes. In particular I reference your comments regarding "worn bearings" which I can relate to on my VW Tiguan.
The noise emanating from the DSG on my VW Tiguan was noted at 300 miles and has continued in my opinion to get worse (Presently 2,700 miles)
Please read a brief account of my plight -;
My £44k 2017 Mk2 Tiguan 190ps 4 Motion R-Line has a horrendous metallic grating noise emanating from the drive train, which has been evident from new. It appears to be prevalent at low speeds up to 20 mph in slow moving traffic when down shifting. Also it is noticeable when driving at steady speeds of 30 - 40 mph in 4th gear.
After lengthy investigations lasting several months both VW and the selling dealer they have described the aforementioned ‘noise’ as a ‘characteristic’ and ‘normal DSG operation noise’ However, are refusing to declare why the noise is evident on some cars but not on others, and also which component the noise is emanating from!
Unfortunately and due to VW’s reluctance to resolve my conerns with my Tiguan I have been left with no alternative but to appoint a independent DEKRA automotive engineer who has contrary to VW and the selling dealers opinion of the noise being ‘normal operation’ and a ‘characteristic’ has concluded that the noise is unacceptable!
I have test driven 4 Tiguan's for comparison purposes and out of 4, three exhibited varying degrees of noise so there is no consistency but apparently quite a few cars affected, some customers have contacted me from as far a field as Singapore, Australia, Portugal, UK and Iceland!
At my wits end and with the Motor Ombudsman apparently siding with VW I have now reluctantly sought legal advice to conclude this debacle!
I have uploaded a sound video recording of the noise to YouTube so have a listen. I would welcome your valuable comments.
Apologies as the sound was taken using my iPhone so you may have to turn the volume up on your PC.........Listen at 5 seconds, 35 seconds, 49 - 55 seconds, 1 m 5 seconds - 1 m 12 seconds, 1 m 25 seconds - 1 m 40 seconds, 1 m 45 seconds - 1 m 52 seconds and 2 m - 2 m 20 seconds
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O96j_x9M3fk
Regards
Tracy
Hi John
It is with great interest that I read your most informative article on the VAG DQ250, in particular referencing "noisy bearings"
Not only did I have the misfortune of a replacement DSG (DQ250) in my 2014 VW Golf GTD but my wife has an issue with the DQ500 DSG gearbox on her 2017 VW Tiguan.
My wife's £44k 2017 Mk2 Tiguan 190ps 4 Motion R-Line has a horrendous metallic grating noise emanating from the drive train, which has been evident from new. At this present time it has 2,700 miles recorded and she will not drive the car due to poor refinement.
After lengthy investigations lasting several months both VW and the selling dealer have described the aforementioned ‘noise’ as a ‘characteristic’ and ‘normal DSG operation noise’ However, are refusing to declare why the noise is evident on some cars but not on others, and also which component the noise is emanating from!
Unfortunately, and due to VW’s reluctance to resolve my wife’s concerns with her Tiguan I have been left with no alternative but to appoint a independent DEKRA automotive engineer who has contrary to VW and the selling dealers opinion of the noise being ‘normal operation’ and a ‘characteristic’ has concluded that the noise is unacceptable! VW are standing by their comments which has resulted in a stalemate.
I have test driven 4 Tiguan's for comparison purposes and out of 4, three exhibited varying degrees of noise so there is no consistency but apparently quite a few cars affected, some customers have contacted me from as far a field as Singapore, Portugal, Australia and Iceland.
At her wits end my wife has now instructed legal representation to conclude this debacle!
I have uploaded a video to you tube so have a listen see if you think it is worn bearings as noted in your article. Your comment would be very much appreciated.........https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O96j_x9M3fk
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