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davidmoeller85

Audi S7 Trans Warning: Slipping Gears & Limp Mode Alert

Having transmission problems with my 2012 S7 that started recently. The automatic gearbox shows several concerning symptoms, erratic shifting patterns, transmission warning light is on, and the car seems stuck in limp mode. The transmission performance is notably poor, with the slipping transmission being most noticeable during gear changes. I suspect worn transmission fluid might be the culprit, but want to hear from others who faced similar issues. Has anyone experienced this combination of symptoms? What was the actual problem and repair solution in your case? Particularly interested in knowing if a transmission flush helped or if it required more extensive repairs. Cost estimates for different repair scenarios would also be helpful. Thanks in advance for sharing your experiences.

4 comment(s)

magdalenaphoenix7

I had a similar transmission performance issue with my 2014 S6. Having some experience with automatic transmissions, I initially thought it was related to the hydraulic fluid levels, but it turned out to be an undervoltage problem affecting the transmission control unit. The symptoms matched yours exactly, erratic shifting, warning lights, and the dreaded limp mode. The slipping transmission feeling was particularly concerning during acceleration. The workshop diagnosed it as an electrical system issue affecting the transmission control module. They had to recalibrate the system and replace some electrical components. The total repair cost was 240 Euro, which included diagnostic time and parts. Before we dive deeper into potential solutions, could you share: Current mileage on your S7, When was the last transmission fluid change, Are there any other electrical issues (dim lights, slow starter), Did the problem start suddenly or develop gradually This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced or if its something else entirely. Often car transmission problems can stem from various root causes, so narrowing it down is crucial.

davidmoeller85 (Author)

My S7 has 150541 KM on the odometer, with the last service being an oil replacement done at 145000 KM. Thanks for sharing your experience with the automatic transmission issues. Your repair scenario does match several key symptoms I noticed, especially the slipping transmission behavior. I have noticed some dimming in the headlights recently, which based on your feedback, could point to electrical system problems affecting the automatic gearbox performance. My symptoms developed gradually over about 2 weeks before the transmission warning light appeared. Your electrical system diagnosis seems worth investigating, particularly since the repair costs were reasonable compared to a full transmission overhaul.

magdalenaphoenix7

Looking at your mileage and service history, your symptoms align even more closely with what I experienced. The gradual onset and dimming headlights strongly suggest an electrical system issue affecting the transmission control unit, just like in my case. The automatic gearbox problems I faced also developed over a similar timeframe. The transmission control module was struggling due to inconsistent voltage supply, causing the erratic shifting patterns and eventually triggering the transmission warning light. One key indicator that helped confirm the electrical nature of my car transmission issues was the correlation between electrical load and transmission performance. The slipping transmission symptoms typically worsened when multiple electrical systems were active. The hydraulic fluid levels and transmission oil condition were actually fine in my case, though the workshop checked these during diagnosis. The real fix involved: Voltage supply system diagnosis, Control module recalibration, Replacement of faulty electrical components, Basic transmission fluid check Given the matching symptoms and vehicle history, I recommend having your electrical system checked before considering more extensive transmission repairs. The relatively low repair cost of 240 Euro in my case proved much more economical than a full transmission overhaul.

davidmoeller85 (Author)

Thanks for the detailed analysis of your similar issue. The electrical system theory makes a lot of sense given my symptoms. Before taking it to the shop, I did some additional checks and noticed the transmission performance definitely worsens when using multiple electrical accessories, exactly as you described. Since my recent oil replacement was done properly and the gradual onset matches your experience with electrical issues, I will have the workshop focus first on the electrical system and transmission control module. The 240 Euro cost for your repair sounds much more appealing than the transmission flush or complete overhaul I initially feared might be needed. The correlation between the slipping transmission symptoms and electrical load really seems to be the key diagnostic factor here. My automatic gearbox problems mirror yours so closely that I feel more confident now about the potential root cause. Will book it in next week focusing on electrical diagnosis rather than jumping straight to transmission repairs.

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