tomwu

Hi guys,
My 04 4.2 A8 has been having hard shift (only) from 2nd to 3rd gear especially when car is cold. Just when it changes gear over 2K rpm, it feels like a kick from the back... Once tranny gets warm, it changes gear earlier and pretty acceptable. Other gear changes are smooth. Heard that a software update from 070 to 120 could help (one guy from the forum mentioned it got the issue fixed for him). Just wondering if this is a dealership only job or it's VCDS DIY possible.
Also the latest transmission oil change is the Ravenol one not sure if it will be compatible with the 120 software.
Cheers
Tom

dvs_dave

MP4.2+6.0

+2. Dealer only on software change. They have to tie to the Ingolstat computers typically for all the version confirmation and registration stuff. Sounds like you are reading the old "hoot" tranny TSB. Long past its prime, other then maybe directionally to change fluid.

As stated in dave's reply, try a fluid change first. Or even before that, check fluid level and do a leak inspection. Then if not really improved, valve body seal is most likely as noted. That takes a trans pan pull to get at, and some comfort/experience doing (modest) internal tranny work. Trans. stays in car for it to be clear.

tomwu

Thanks guys.
I've owned this car for just over a year and I did trans fluid/filter change by myself last year. Due to the age/value of the car, I think I'm not gonna try open it again. Anyhow when transmission fluid temp comes up, it's not that bad; also other gear changes are pretty smooth. Will just live with it till I make up my mind to get a D4 perhaps :P

Jack88

When you did the fluid and filter change, did you ever retorque the bolts on the pan? If you don't, it's common for them to start weeping. Not enough to leave puddles anywhere, but if you are even a bit low, your symptoms are exactly what could happen. Check your fluid level, it's quick, easy, and cheap!

Sci-fi_Wasabi

I also had some temperature sensitive issues... maybe fluid expands when it heats up to give you a bit of extra volume.
2 shops told me levels were normal, but I think this transmission is very finicky about being just right. I would add more fluid till you get to the high end of normal, and see how it goes... easy starting point before doing other things.

dvs_dave

TSHong

Sounds like low fluid to me. That would be the first thing I would change. If it low, now the trans needs to have the adaptation run to shift smoothly.

tomwu

Thanks all, will try check/top up fluid next weekend.