john in cincy

OK, so we have been over the automatic transmission fluid change issues, but what about the manual? When should it be done? Any similar issues? Is it an easy DIY?

I have a 2001 with approx. 82K on the odometer. I have no reason to believe that it has been done previously. Shifting is fine.

4Driver4

If you elect to do this, do the rear diff at the same time. The Audi fluids are very good quality and do not break down quickly; if you buy crappy fluid, you will be doing more harm than good. Make sure you buy either the Audi stuff or a very good synthetic. Note the requirements for GL-4 and GL-5. Buy the right stuff; a fluid approved for GL-4 and GL-5 is not the same as a true GL-4 IMHO.

If you DIY, make sure the car is level when you measure the level.

I changed the urS to Redline this past Summer in preparation for Watkins Glen. I used Redline MT-90 in the trans, and 75w90 in the rear diff. I'm happy with the way the car shifts, but it can be a bit notchy when cold.

absolutcq20v

I learned that Redline MTL was put in it about 15k ago. I'm going to put in either Motul or Redline 75W-90.
Apparently, the fill level is very sensitive. The Bentley manual reportedly states that the fill level is 1mm below the fill port.
Also, as a bit of BTDT, be sure to remove the upper fill plug BEFORE draining the fluid; if you remove the drain plug and drain the fluid, and can't get the fill plug free, you're SOL.
The drain plug is reportedly a star-type, femail socket, but I haven't verified this on my '00. I have a 17mm hex plug socket, but not the star one...so we'll see.

OldManTan

I just skipped 2nd gear until things warmed up. 1-3-4-5-SLOWDOWN!

4Driver4

That oil is GL-5 rated. The trans requires a GL-4 (like the MT-90).

The reason for the stiffness/notchiness when cold is that the Redline oil is more slick than the factory stuff and the syncros can't grip to slow the mainshaft down.

2.7Twin

filter to change and all you really need to do is make sure they have adaquate fluid. Auto's and manny's are totally different beasts.

john in cincy

Thanks. Sounds like no good reason to change so I won't.

4Driver4

You can stick your finger in the hole and dip it in the fluid. Check for discoloration and burnt smell.

FWIW, my wife's A6 automatic is still on the original diff oils (front, center rear) at 180+. The automatic fluid was changed at 120k.

absolutcq20v

This is exactly why I still need to do more homework; so much conflicting information. I'm not gonna change my tranny/diff fluids until I get the facts straight.
My parts guy at the local dealership said there was no official Audi fluid for the manuals...they just use a 'synthetic 75w-90', which is a broad spectrum.
I haven't checked for myself, but the Bentley reportedly calls for a GL4/5 oil (performance of GL 5 without the ingredients that allegedly harm the brass bits).
Then there's the issue about fill levels, I have a hard time buying into the idea that 1mm of level difference makes such a drastic difference in performance.
Motul makes 'Motyl Gear' and 'Gear 300'. Both are synthetic 75w-90 and meet "API GL4 and GL5/MIL-L-2105C", but the first is a blend while the latter is ester based.
Then there's the issue of wether my '00 has a star socket or jsut the regular 17mm hex (like our older Audi manuals). Again, this should be in the manual, but I haven't checked yet.
The only thing I know is that my tranny has Redline MTL; 2nd gear may as well be frozen on cold mornings...even after warming up, I have to excercise patience when shifting quickly about the lower gears...specifically 1st to 2nd.
Sooo, I'm not touching a thing until I do the research for myself. Now, where's my Advil...my head hurts. :P

4Driver4

I haven't checked the owner's manual, but I bet it will give some clues...but still there are a lot of decisions.