Audi Q5 Transmission Slipping & Rough Gear Shifts

Had similar symptoms with an Audi A4 2011 2.0T. The rough shifting and hesitation turned out to be related to multiple fault codes in the transmission control module. The diagnostic trouble codes revealed the ABS system was sending incorrect signals, causing the traction control to engage out of nowhere. The torque converter started acting up because the transmission control module was getting faulty wheel speed sensor data. This triggered limp mode as a safety measure. The root cause was a failing ABS module that created a chain reaction of electrical issues. The repair required: Full system diagnostic scan, ABS module replacement, Recalibration of transmission control unit, Reset of all adaptive learning values This was a serious issue that could have led to transmission damage if left unchecked. The symptoms are very similar to actual transmission problems, which is why proper diagnostics are crucial. Recommend asking the mechanic to: 1. Check all ABS sensors and wiring 2. Perform complete transmission diagnostic 3. Test the torque converter lock-up 4. Verify transfer case operation 5. Clear all fault codes and verify if they return Having transmission symptoms doesnt always mean the transmission itself is failing. Often its the control systems causing the behavior.

Thanks for describing what happened with your A4. This is really helpful since Im having the same powertrain malfunction symptoms in my Q5. The diagnostic trouble codes you mentioned make sense given what Im experiencing. Did your mechanic mention how much the total repair cost? Also curious if youve had any issues since the fix or if it completely resolved the rough shifting?

Glad I could help with the info about my A4. After the mechanic properly diagnosed the ABS system issues, fixing the transfer case limp mode problem actually cost nothing since it was just consequential faults that needed clearing. The rough shifting completely stopped once they reset the transmission control module and cleared the diagnostic trouble codes. Its been running perfectly for months now with no transmission issues or warning lights. The gear selector moves smoothly between positions and the traction control system works as intended. Really shows how important it is to have a thorough diagnostic scan done rather than just assuming the worst about transmission repairs. Best part was avoiding an unnecessary transmission rebuild by finding the actual root cause in the control systems. Still keeping an eye on it, but no signs of the problem returning.

Thanks everyone for the detailed responses. Finally took my Q5 to a new mechanic who actually knew what they were doing. Just like suggested, they ran a full diagnostic scan first instead of jumping to conclusions about the transmission. Turns out the ABS sensor was failing and causing the limp home mode to activate out of nowhere. The repair came to 450 Euro including labor and parts. Much better than the 3000 Euro transmission rebuild the previous shop tried selling me. The gear selector now shifts perfectly and no more rough changes between gears. Been driving it for two weeks with zero issues. Really glad I asked here first and knew what to tell the mechanic to check specifically. Saved me from an expensive unnecessary repair.