Audi S7 Transmission Failure Linked to Cooling Issues

I encountered a very similar issue with my 2012 Audi S6, also with the 4.0L engine. With some experience working on Audis, I can share what worked for me. The symptoms you describe match exactly what I experienced, transmission warning lights, rough shifting, and cooling system problems. After checking with a pressure gauge, it turned out the issue was a faulty wiring connection to the transmission cooling system sensor. The repair involved: Diagnostic scan of the cooling system, Replacing damaged wiring and connectors, Checking radiator coolant levels, Testing for coolant leaks, Recalibrating transmission control module Total repair cost was 95 Euro and took about 2 hours to complete. The grinding noise completely disappeared after fixing the connection issue. Before giving more specific advice, could you share: Current mileage on your S7, When was the last transmission fluid change, Any previous cooling system repairs, Exact transmission warning messages showing This would help determine if your issue is identical to what I experienced or if additional diagnostics are needed. Remember to check your coolant levels regularly as low coolant can cause transmission damage in these models.

I got my S7 serviced last week. After checking with a pressure sensor, they found a coolant leak in the oil cooler. The cooling fan was also malfunctioning, which added to the overheating problem. The shop fixed everything, including replacing some damaged wiring near the transmission. Total repair time was about 6 hours. This seems quite similar to your symptoms. Just for reference, my car has 177004 KM on the clock. The transmission now shifts smoothly with no more warning lights. You might want to have your cooling system inspected thoroughly as these issues can cause serious damage if left unchecked.

Thanks for the update on your S7 repair. The oil cooler leak you found matches my initial suspicion from when I dealt with my S6 transmission issues. When the cooling fan malfunctions alongside a coolant leak, it creates the perfect storm for transmission problems. Your repair outcome validates what I learned from my experience, the cooling system and transmission are closely linked in these models. The pressure sensor readings are crucial for early detection. My repair was simpler since it only involved wiring, but the root cause was similar. Those cooling system components tend to start showing wear around 170000-180000 KM, which matches both our cases. After my repair, I started monitoring radiator coolant levels monthly as preventive maintenance. With your oil cooler replaced and cooling fan fixed, you should be good for another 100000 KM at least. Definitely keeping an eye on my oil cooler now, as these cars can get hot when the cooling system isnt working at 100%. When car overheating occurs, it often leads to transmission strain.

I appreciate all the detailed feedback on my S7 issue. The advice about checking radiator coolant levels monthly makes a lot of sense. Since the repair, my transmission has been working perfectly, no more grinding or slipping between gears. The total cost came to 850 Euro for parts and labor, which included the new oil cooler, cooling fan replacement, and some wiring repairs. While not cheap, its worth it to prevent more serious transmission damage. The car runs much cooler now according to the temperature gauge. For anyone else facing similar transmission issues with these models, definitely get your cooling system checked first. My mechanic confirmed that car overheating from coolant leaks often causes these transmission warning lights. The radiator repair was essential to solving the underlying problem. I plan to have the cooling system pressure tested every 6 months now as preventive maintenance. Thanks again for helping me understand the connection between the transmission problems and cooling system issues.