Audi A3 Gearbox Malfunction Error What Could Go Wrong?

The Audi A3 is one of the most reliable and cost-effective cars in the German automaker's stable. Since its debut in 1996, the A3 has consistently ranked high on the list of affordable high-end cars. Audi A3 impressed drivers because of its easy handling, comfortable interior, and eager engine.

Gearbox Malfunction message highlights

• Common reasons:clutch in DCTs, low fluid level, low 12V battery glitch
• How to fix:replace/recharge battery, add transmission fluid, replace the clutch kit (in DCT)
• Possible consequences:fatal transmission damage, car completely immobilized
• Priority level:High
• Can you drive?No
• DIY repair:Impossible
• Repair price range:$150-$5000

How to Identify a Malfunctioning Gearbox

By this point, you may wonder how to figure out when your A3 is facing imminent gearbox failure. Several signs warn drivers that their A3 gearbox may be on the fritz. You can commonly expect intense vibrations that almost make your teeth rattle and windows shatter.

Here are other common symptoms that signal Audi A3 gearbox problems;

• Difficulty in shifting from the 1st gear to the 2nd
• Severe gear engagement and downshifting
• Difficulty moving from 2nd to 3rd gear
• Strange knocking, rattling noise
• Slipping into neutral
• Lack of both drive and reverse
• The main 30-amp fuse is constantly blowing
• EPC light is always on

The above symptoms can result from parts wearing within your car's gearbox. A gearbox is not a simple DIY fix. You are advised to consult a licensed Audi dealership whenever you suspect a gearbox malfunction. A certified auto repair expert will afford peace of mind that poor-quality components and shoddy workmanship stay as far as possible from your A3.

Common Causes of Gearbox Malfunction

One factor you should consider is that the cause of your gearbox problems may result from an electrical problem with the transmission adaptive shift functionality. Instead of performing its desired function, it miscalibrates, leading to a rough shifting and engagement. This is the leading cause of gearbox defects because if left unattended, the problem extends to neighboring components.

While electrical wiring failure may also contribute to gearbox challenges, it is rarely the root cause. Defects within the valve body frequently cause leakages which result in gearbox malfunction. Drivers may also suffer worn-out valves, which may lead to problems other Audi A3s are not facing as time passes. If your car keeps slipping into neutral and has rough shifting, worn-out valves are likely to blame.

Audi's design is liable to suffer abnormal leakage. If your A3 is a victim of this manufacturing defect, your best option is to replace the defective valves. You may have to upgrade from your 5-speed model because they tend to wear out faster than 6-speed. Keep in mind that replacing the valve body is a reliable solution.

Upgrading your engine's transmission is the only way to ensure that the core flaws of the Audi A3 gearbox are removed. Upgrading your car will work as new, and all the strange noises will be dealt with. Do not also forget to visit experts whenever you are experiencing problems with your Audi A3 gearbox problems.

Are You Unable to Select Any Gears At All?

Audi began installing vehicles with the Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) between 2003 and 2016. It has been reported multiple times that the DSG control unit is a common problem facing the series.

The most noticeable characteristic of a damaged DSG control unit is being unable to select any gears. When you cannot like any gears, the EPC lights consequently remain on, and the gear signs will be on continually on the dashboard. The main 30-amp fuse may be damaged, and if you don't replace the damaged DSG and only replace the blown fuse, it will also blow up.

When going through a similar problem, it is advisable to read the fault code found in the gearbox system. By going through the codes, you may realize that the problem is that the system is not communicating with the diagnostic scanner. This results in your system not being able to read any fault codes.

The following fault codes are stored in your DSG gearbox system:

• P0562 - Low system voltage
• P189C - Function restriction because of insufficient pressure build-up
• P1604 - Internal control module

If you receive similar error codes to the ones named above, it should indicate that your DSG control unit is damaged and needs to be replaced with a new one. It is also possible for you to have the damaged DSG control unit rebuilt and for it to give you the desired lifetime.

The process should use high-standard components engineered out of the primary design for the DSG to be rebuilt and give you the desired lifetime.

Rebuilding the damaged DSG can only cost a fraction compared to buying a new DSG control unit. Aside from the high cost of buying a brand new DSG, it also comes with an additional fee for Programming it to your car and labor costs.

Are Your Gears Stiff While Changing?

While driving your Audi A3, you may try to change from one gear to another and realize that the stick shift feels stiff. You may try changing from gear 1 to gear 2, which becomes a challenging task. The problem of stiff gears is familiar with the Audi A3 with the manual gearbox.

Stiff gears in the Audi A3 engine result from a faulty gearbox synchromesh. The solution is to replace the defective gearbox synchromesh with a new compatible spare. The spare should be genuine and from an Audi dealer.

Do not panic when you find yourself in a situation where your car refuses to shift out of park mode. Here are the steps you should take to fix that problem;

• Make sure that parking brakes are engaged
• Turn your ignition on but not your engine
• Remove the plastic cap covering the override switch on the shifter for easy operation.
• Insert and hold a screwdriver in the slot
• Keep the brake pedal down
• Finally, pull your shifter out of park mode.

How To Look After Your Engine's Gearbox

• Change your gearbox oil frequently to ensure it efficiently reduces friction and heat amongst the moving parts. Failure to change your oil as indicated in your user manual will accelerate the corrosion and wear and tear of internal components. You should also ensure you use the correct oil type for your gearbox.
• Keep your gearbox clean by ensuring there is no debris collecting inside. Breathes are an excellent option for drivers seeking to keep water and dirt out. Cleaning your gearbox periodically ensures that any debris is removed before it ruins your oil and internal components.
• Shift gears appropriately to remain in sync with your shaft, and cog rotation is key to maintaining your gearbox's health.
• Replace any worn-out components or take your car in for a diagnosis as soon as you notice the symptoms listed earlier.
• A thorough warm-up that lasts at least thirty seconds will ensure that all your gearbox components are ready for the journey. This is particularly important during winter when internal components are likely to freeze.

Cost of Repairing Audi A3 Gearbox

When facing gearbox challenges in your A3, your best course of action is to visit a certified Audi dealership as soon as possible. These certified technicians are guaranteed to have experience dealing will various models of the A3, including yours.

The cost of a transmission rebuild varies widely depending on your location, auto repairs expert's skill level, and the model of your A3. Some dealerships charge a diagnosis fee, usually deductible from the repairs undertaken. Where the diagnosis fee is not deductible, it is likely lower than the deductible fee. Diagnosis fees typically range from $50 to $200

Older models are generally cheaper to fix than newer ones. When going to the shop for a transmission rebuild, ensure you have between $1000 and $3000 ready. Where you do not need to replace the entire system, ensure you purchase high-quality compatible parts. Quality parts are the only way to ensure you do not return to the shop with a similar problem.

Conclusion

Your Audi A3 is the product of highly touted German engineering and was designed to run for thousands of miles before presenting any challenges. If you are experiencing gearbox challenges due to manufacturing defects, replacing the malfunctioning components will have your A3 running optimally.

After repairing the transmission, you must be a diligent driver who faithfully attends all their scheduled service appointments. Regular servicing and maintenance is the best way to prevent further gearbox or general issues. If you are considering purchasing a used Audi A3, it is wise to inspect the transmission system thoroughly for signs of defects to avoid buying a lemon.