danparm302

Recently purchased an '05 allroad 4.2 with 116k on the odometer (heck of a deal too). I'm the third owner of the car and couldn't be happier with it so far (only 2 weeks). However, not surprised that it has a few issues...

Car has (possible) signs of TC problems. Below 2k RPM and with throttle input the RPMs vary slightly (~100 revs) constantly, as if the TC is slipping. There's some shuddering as well below 2k under acceleration. This is only happening at lower speeds in lower gears (D or tip). It also isn't as bad in S mode. Acceleration is strong and no slipping feeling above 2k. However, under hard acceleration when the transmission shifts I hear a low pitched click (not quite a clunk). I also hear it if I lift on the throttle at high RPM. At highway speeds if I go into tip and downshift I don't hear the click, transmission shifts well, and I can take off and pass that semi no problem (thanks 4.2 )

The rear clips are missing from the filter box, got P0171/174 (too lean both banks). Cleaned MAF but waiting on replacement clips, no codes since cleaning (a few hundred miles of driving as well). Tail shaft seal is leaking. One or both valve covers are leaking. Driven just over 1k miles since I picked up the car, just the lean mixture codes, no TC codes. No service history past 2008, not sure when the plugs and coils were replaced last.

Do I have a possible TC issue or is one of the other issues making it appear that way?

There's an Audi specialist near my home who has a private shop. He is going to be taking care of the leaky valve and tail shaft seals in addition to changing the ATF fluid. He test drove the car and wasn't too concerned about the varying RPMs or the click. I'm still concerned, however.

If the TC is showing signs of failure, and I wanted to be proactive about it, should I just have the TC replaced? If so, what is a good TC to go with? 517trans or Advanced Automation?

Any thoughts, suggestions, and/or advice are much appreciated. Thanks!