Audi A6 Transmission Nightmare: Park Lock Failure Alert

I had a very similar transmission issue with my 2020 Audi A4 last year. With some experience working on cars, I recognized the symptoms immediately as potential transmission sensor problems. The automatic transmission showed nearly identical issues, rough shifting, starting problems, and transmission failure warnings. After checking the transmission sensor readings, my workshop found that the control unit was defective, causing communication errors between the transmission and engine management systems. The complete repair involved: Full diagnostic scan, Replacement of the defective control unit, Recalibration of the transmission system, Testing all gear positions, Final computer reset Total repair cost was 1000 Euro, and the workshop completed everything in about 2 days. Since the fix, the transmission has worked flawlessly with smooth gear changes. To better assist with your situation, could you share: Current mileage on your A6, When did these symptoms first appear, Have you noticed any transmission fluid leaks, Are there any other warning lights besides check engine, Did you get the specific error codes from the diagnostic This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced with the control unit failure.

Last service was at 198000 KM, just 2 weeks ago. The automatic transmission symptoms started appearing right after. The workshop did a transmission fluid change during that service. The error codes from my diagnostic scan point to P0700 and P0715, suggesting transmission sensor circuit problems. No visible transmission fluid leaks found underneath the car, but the gear linkage feels notably loose when shifting between park and drive. The service technician mentioned the shift lock solenoid might need replacement, though they wanted to do more testing. They quoted 850 Euro for parts and labor if that turns out to be the issue. Are these symptoms consistent with your control unit problem? The repair time estimate seems longer in my case, workshop says 3-4 days due to parts availability.

Having gone through a similar situation with my A4, your symptoms after the transmission fluid change raise some concerns. While my transmission failure initially seemed similar, your error codes P0700 and P0715 specifically indicate transmission sensor circuit issues, which differs slightly from my control unit problem. The loose gear shifter movement between park and drive, combined with these codes, suggests the transmission sensor might have been damaged during the fluid change. This would explain why problems started immediately after service. The shift lock solenoid replacement could be necessary, but I would recommend checking the transmission sensor wiring first. In my case, the automatic transmission problems were fixed with the control unit replacement. However, your symptoms point more toward a sensor-related issue rather than a complete control unit failure. The 850 Euro quote sounds reasonable compared to my 1000 Euro repair, especially for sensor replacement work. The 3-4 day timeline makes sense, my 2-day repair was shorter because the parts were in stock. One suggestion based on my experience: request they perform a thorough transmission sensor calibration after the repair, as this helped prevent any recurring issues with my transmission. Given these symptoms appeared right after service, you might want to discuss with the workshop if the transmission fluid change could have contributed to the sensor problems. This could affect warranty coverage for the repair.

Based on your latest reply and comparing with your previous experience, Im more concerned now. The transmission sensor problems appearing right after a fluid change cant be coincidental. Unlike your case with the control unit, my transmission issues seem directly linked to the recent service. The workshop quoted 850 Euro for the shift lock solenoid, but reading about your experience makes me think they should first inspect the transmission sensor wiring. The automatic transmission worked perfectly before the service, and now showing P0700 and P0715 codes suggests possible damage during maintenance. Going from running smoothly to having neutral position problems and starting issues immediately after service is suspicious. While the 3-4 day repair timeline is longer than your experience, Im willing to wait if it means a proper fix. Will contact the service department tomorrow to discuss potential warranty coverage, since these transmission issues started right after their fluid change. Thanks for sharing your control unit repair details, its helped me better understand what questions to ask during my follow-up with the workshop.