nlions

Hi everyone,

I hope this message finds everyone well. I'm new to the AudiWorld forum and also a first time buyer of Audi automobiles. Several weeks ago, I purchased in Phantom Black Pearl the 2008 A8 4.2 FSI short body. I currently have approximately 1000 KMs and in the process of breaking in the car. I would like to get some help in two areas:

-Breaking in the new A8: I'm following some basic rules such as low rpm driving for the first 3000 KMs (up to 3000 rpm), avoid driving at consistent speed/rpm, no hard braking. Is this a good balance?

-This is my first Audi and Quattro system vehicle. As such, I've noticed that during downshifts especially from 3rd to 2nd, the shifts are quite rough even at speeds lower than 40 KM/h. The dealer tells me I am too sensitive and I may not be used to the clunking of a 4 wheel drive system but the rough downshifts happen intermittently. Is this normal?

I would love to hear from this forum. Meanwhile, I look forward to sharing.

Thanks very much!

JimTheBarber

There are known problems with the transmission once you approach 80 to 100,000 miles. Whether you got a bad one that is exhibiting the problem right away, I can't tell. If it is rough it is definitely an indication that something is wrong.

Victoryroad

I got my 2008 short wheelbase, 4.2 A8 late last year and observed break-in procedures. I have not noticed any abrupt or rough gear changes in either normal or sport mode with upshifts or downshifts. Even self-initiated downshifts using the paddles from 3rd to 2nd are smooth. The car has always been very smooth and now has almost 7,000 miles.

PaulW

It's a known problem with the gearbox....I don't understand why Audi continues to use ZF as a vendor if they can't get it right. It's a beautiful piece of equipment that works "okay" as Simon would say.

They usually change the fluid to "blue" stuff and download a new shift program.

There are 100's of posts about it on the D3 forum.

nlions

Thanks very much for your comments. I'll keep the forum posted after my service with the dealer.

nlions

Thanks for your feedback. Were your break-in procedures similar to my post? Thanks again.

nlions

Thanks Paul for your feedback. It's great to see that we have a forum for information sharing. I'll search on the D3 forum and also speak to the service department regarding your recommendation. Thanks again!

PaulW

Has you change out the fluid to blue and download a new shift program.

It's 37-07-07, Chirping, hooting, squeaking noise.

I would email it to you, but you hide your email. Ask the dealer if they can carry it out on your vehicle.

nlions

Hi Paul,

Thanks again for the information. As I'm new to the forum, didn't see that I can display e-mail in the post. If you have time, I would love to get my hands on the TSB you mentioned...

Many thanks!