Audi A7 Transmission Nightmare: Rough Shifts & Limp Mode

I had a similar issue with my 2015 A6 3.0T last year. Speaking from moderate experience with transmission problems, rough shifting combined with limp mode often points to electrical rather than mechanical issues. The symptoms matched exactly, jerky shifts, unresponsive gear selector, and transfer case limitations. After running diagnostics, my workshop found that the ABS system was sending incorrect signals to the transmission control module, causing the torque converter to behave erratically. The fix was actually quite simple, the workshop performed a complete system reset and updated the control module software. Since the issue was traced back to a known fault in the ABS system causing these symptoms, it was covered under an extended warranty program. The total repair cost was 0 Euro. To better assist with your specific case, could you share: Current mileage on your A7, Whether you notice the symptoms more when the engine is cold or warm, If any recent work was done on the ABS or brake systems, What specific fault codes your scan tool is showing This information would help determine if you are experiencing the same root cause or if there might be a different underlying issue.

Latest service was just completed 2 weeks ago at 39369 KM. The symptoms definitely get worse when the engine is cold, which makes me think the torque converter might be part of the issue. The scan tool showed fault code P0730 and traction control system warnings. No recent work on brakes or ABS, but the gear selector has been feeling more notchy lately, especially when shifting from park to drive. Would be interested to know more about the software update fix mentioned, wondering if there are any bulletins related to the transmission control module for my specific model year.

Thanks for those details. After dealing with my A6's similar issues, the cold-start symptoms you describe really resonate. The torque converter behavior during cold starts was a major red flag in my case too. The P0730 code combined with traction control warnings matches exactly what I experienced before the fix. The notchy gear selector was also present in my case, particularly noticeable in cold weather. Since your vehicle is showing the same symptoms as mine did, I strongly suspect your transmission control module needs the software update. There was indeed a technical service bulletin released for 2012-2014 models addressing these exact issues, rough shifting, transfer case limitations, and erratic torque converter behavior during cold starts. The software update resolved all these issues in my A6, and the transmission has been shifting flawlessly for the past year. The powertrain malfunction warnings disappeared completely after the update. Quick tip: If you decide to pursue the software update route, make sure the workshop checks the transfer case fluid level first. In some cases, low fluid can trigger similar symptoms and should be ruled out before proceeding with control module updates.

Thanks for the detailed follow-up. With these cold-start symptoms and the specific fault codes showing up, I feel more confident that my transmission issues might have a similar fix to what worked on your A6. The torque converter behavior during cold starts has been particularly concerning, but hearing that a software update resolved your transmission problems gives me hope this wont require major mechanical repairs. Good suggestion about checking the transfer case fluid levels first, will definitely have that looked at before pursuing any control module updates. Will contact my regular workshop tomorrow to inquire about the technical service bulletin you mentioned. The gear selector issues and rough shifting are getting worse, so I want to address this before the transfer case gets stuck in limp mode permanently. Appreciate the insights about your experience, it really helps narrow down the potential causes and gives me a clearer direction for the repairs.