Trans problem...again!

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Jan 20, 2014 | 09:51 AM

troverman

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Trans problem...again!

OK, so original trans failed, limp mode only, replaced with remanufactured trans. Has been perfect until now. Start car, no problem. Engage reverse, no problem, back up is totally normal. Engage drive, and a second later trans enters limp mode. No amount of restarting or disconnecting battery will help. Even in limp mode, reverse is fine (when original trans failed, reverse was limp mode, too...meaning no power).

In trying to figure this out, I did a little experiment: rolling slowly downhill, I shut the engine off and restarted in neutral. As soon as the engine restarted, I quickly moved the shift lever into manual mode and selected 3rd gear. The car accepted this and seemed to drive normally. I could shift up or down. However, in downshifting to first, at slow speed, the trans quickly slammed back into limp mode (I think 4th gear).

I have a hard time thinking this is a mechanical issue. I can sit in Park with the engine off, ignition on, and move the trans into drive. After a second, it goes into limp mode...with the trans off. Could it be the XYZ switch? A bad solenoid? Reman trans is out of warranty now.

Jan 20, 2014 | 02:39 PM

tozoM8

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time to scan for codes.

Jan 20, 2014 | 04:18 PM

Prospeeder

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From: Washington

Your just guessing until you see what faults the transmission is throwing. Pretty doubtful its a bad transmission.

Jan 21, 2014 | 03:19 AM

troverman

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I'll have to find someone with VAG-COM in the area. I think I know of an indie mechanic who might be so equipped. Of course its not fun to drive the car in this mode!

Jan 21, 2014 | 03:54 AM

nossisnave

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You can download a version of VAGCOM for free I believe and purchase a ~$20 cable to connect your computer and OBDII port. VAGCOM is quite comprehensive but while waiting for that to happen, Advance Auto Parts will let you borrow their scanner for a few minutes so you can at least get the codes and start researching what they are; they'll hold your licence and you don't leave their lot. Does seem unlikely to be a mech issue. Put the codes up when you get 'em.

Jan 21, 2014 | 03:57 AM

troverman

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In my experience Auto-Zone / Advance Auto, etc simply lend you a generic OBD-II scan tool...which will not typically diagnose a transmission fault. No Check Engine light is present. I have an expensive OBD-II scanner which I guess I could scan the car with, but not expecting to find any codes since the MIL is off.

Jan 21, 2014 | 04:15 AM

nossisnave

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My bad, sorry for the idiot post. I should have figured from all the vehicles in your sig that you'd know about that. I didn't realize the CEL was not on. Does the bulb light up when you first turn the ignition? My old A6 wouldn't pass NY inspection cuz of the CEL but I didn't have a clue due to the bulb being blown. Again, not trying to insult you, it's just that I've missed simple things like that many times. Just a thought