A5 Trans Warning: Grinding Gears Signal Major Repair

Had similar issues with my A4 2014 gasoline model at 52k km. The symptoms matched exactly, rough automatic transmission shifts, grinding noises, and warning lights. The converter failure signs were clear, especially during gear changes between 2nd and 3rd. The lock-up clutch inside the torque converter was severely worn, causing transmission fluid contamination. This required a complete torque converter replacement, as rebuilding wasnt feasible. Definitely a serious repair that kept the car at the workshop for 4 days. Important to note: when the converter fault occurs, metal particles often spread through the transmission system. This typically requires: Full transmission fluid flush, New torque converter installation, Transmission filter replacement, Computer system reset The automatic transmission needed recalibration after all repairs were done. Delaying repairs would have led to complete transmission failure, which would have been much more serious. Would strongly recommend getting it checked by a transmission specialist rather than a general mechanic. These symptoms usually indicate converter issues that worsen quickly if left unaddressed.

Thanks for the detailed response. This is exactly what happened to my A5, even the symptom timeline matches. The engine surge and grinding between gears was nerve-wracking. Just wondering, do you remember roughly what you paid for the complete fix? I need to budget for this repair and would appreciate a ballpark figure. Also, have you had any automatic gearbox issues since the repair was done? I just booked mine in with a transmission specialist for next week. Pretty anxious about the final bill, but it sounds like waiting would only make things worse.

Since getting my A4 fixed at the transmission specialist, the automatic gearbox has worked flawlessly. The total repair cost came to 2120 Euro, which covered the complete torque converter replacement, transmission fluid flush, and system recalibration. The lock-up clutch problem was definitely the root cause, as confirmed during the repair. The investment was worth it because the transmission now shifts smoothly with no grinding or surge issues. Going to a specialist rather than a general mechanic made a huge difference, they immediately identified the converter fault and knew exactly how to fix it. No automatic transmission problems in the 15000 km since the repair. The torque converter lockup is working perfectly, and all the warning lights have stayed off. Getting it fixed early probably prevented more extensive transmission damage. You made the right call booking with a transmission specialist. While the cost might seem high, its far less expensive than waiting until complete transmission failure occurs.

After weeks of dreading the repair bill, I finally got my A5 back from the transmission specialist today. The diagnostic confirmed exactly what was mentioned, the lock-up clutch had failed inside the torque converter. Total bill came to 2350 Euro, which included the new torque converter, transmission flush, and full system recalibration. The automatic transmission now shifts like new, no more grinding or surging between gears. The specialist showed me the old parts, and the metal fragments in the transmission fluid proved how serious the problem had become. They completed everything in 3 days, which was faster than expected. The automatic gearbox specialist explained that catching it early saved me from complete transmission failure. While the cost was significant, seeing the damaged parts made it clear this was a necessary repair. Both warning lights are now off, and the car drives perfectly after 200 km of testing. For anyone facing similar issues, dont waste time with general mechanics like I initially did. A transmission specialist will diagnose and fix these problems much more effectively.