Danvinniejones

Hi all, having a few problems recently with my 03 2.5TDI, when I drive off when the car is cold if I take it above 2000rpm the car will shudder and the gearbox will throw it in any random gear (has a mind of its own cant predict what gear it will put it in)normally a low gear whilst still juddering. This can happen a few times then the dash instruments PRND will flash red. But when the car warms after 10-15mins it's runs absolutely fine smooth gear changes and no juddering. I have contacted a few local garages who can't really help or say it needs a new tranny. Is this the case or is it something silly like low oil?? Cheers

turbo510

It very well could an issue of low ATF level, which is allowing air to be pulled into the system. Once warm, the ATF has lower density/greater volume, so the level raises enough to stop the air entering. This is all speculation, but I would start by having the fluid level checked and corrected if necessary. On U.S. B6 models, the transmission is filled from below through a stand-pipe in the transmission pan, and must be done with the car level, engine running, and within a set ATF temperature range. Note; avoid running the transmission like this more than absolutely necessary, and use the throttle lightly to avoid slipping the clutches.