A1 Transmission Nightmare: TCM Failure Warning Signs

Speaking from some hands-on experience, I dealt with very similar transmission problems on my 2021 A3. The symptoms match exactly what you described, erratic shifting, grinding noises, and the automatic gearbox going into limp mode. The automotive ECU was functioning normally, but the transmission control module was indeed the culprit. After taking it to a workshop, they ran a complete diagnostic which confirmed the transmission control unit was defective and needed replacement. The total repair cost came to 1000 Euro, including parts and labor. The workshop completed the work in about a day and a half. Since the repair, the transmission has worked flawlessly with no further issues. To help provide more specific insights, could you share: Current mileage on your A1, When did these symptoms first appear, Any recent maintenance or repairs, Whether the check engine light is on, Which error code the car computer displayed These details would help compare situations and ensure you get the most relevant advice for your case.

Thanks for sharing the details about your A3 experience. I just had my last service at 25000 KM, about 2 months before these transmission problems started. The transmission diagnosis revealed error code P0722 during scanning of the car computer. The workshop quoted 1200 Euro for a new transmission control module plus labor. Seems steep compared to your repair costs, but I heard these electronic issues can vary in complexity. Did your repair include any additional transmission components beyond just the control module replacement?

Thanks for the follow-up about your A1. The 1200 Euro quote is higher than what I paid for my A3 transmission repair, but let me clarify the scope of my repair work. My transmission control unit replacement was a straightforward swap, no additional components needed replacement. The workshop did perform a full transmission diagnosis and recalibration after installing the new unit, which was included in my 1000 Euro total. Since you mentioned error code P0722, which relates to output speed sensor issues, your transmission problems might involve more than just the control module. My repair was simpler because we caught the transmission control issue early, before it could cause damage to other components. For reference, my automatic gearbox issues appeared at around 30000 KM. The total repair included: Transmission control unit replacement, System diagnostic scan, Control module programming, Transmission fluid check, Test drive verification If your workshop is including additional sensor replacements or transmission fluid change in the quote, that would explain the higher cost. It might be worth asking for an itemized breakdown of the planned repair work.

Thanks for explaining your A3 repair details. You make a good point about early detection potentially saving additional transmission damage and costs. Given the error code and symptoms, I'll have the workshop provide a detailed breakdown of all planned work. Want to ensure they check the output speed sensor since that's specifically related to the P0722 code showing on my car computer. The automatic gearbox issues appearing at 25000 KM seems early for such problems, but at least catching it now should prevent more extensive transmission repair needs. I'll schedule the work next week and update on whether the 1200 Euro quote includes all the items you listed for your repair. Really helpful to compare experiences, gives me more confidence in moving forward with the transmission control module replacement. Will make sure they do a full diagnostic scan and test drive verification like in your case. Better to fix it properly now than risk more gearbox issues down the road.