Grinding Transmission Points to Torque Converter Failure

Had nearly identical issues with my 2021 Q5 last summer. Have some experience working on cars but this was beyond my skill level given it was an auto transmission problem. The symptoms matched exactly, grinding during shifts, transmission warning light, and the engine surge between gears. The converter fault turned out to be the root cause, affecting the entire automatic gearbox operation. Took it to a transmission specialist after the dealer quoted much higher. They confirmed torque converter failure through diagnostic testing. The repair involved: Removing transmission, Replacing torque converter, Flushing transmission fluid, Reprogramming transmission control module Total cost was 2120 Euro including parts and labor. The shop needed 4 working days to complete everything. Driving with these symptoms risks causing more extensive transmission damage, so I would strongly advise against continuing to use the vehicle until checked. To provide more specific advice about your situation, could you share: Current mileage, When symptoms first appeared, Whether problems occur more in cold or hot conditions, If there were any previous transmission repairs, What transmission fluid service history is known The clutch problem symptoms sound very similar, but knowing these details would help confirm if your Q3 is facing the same converter fault I experienced.

Thanks for the detailed info. Recently had my service at 176580 KM where they checked all fluids and did general maintenance, but these symptoms started just after. My experience matches your description exactly, the engine surge between gears and grinding are identical. The lock-up clutch seems to be the main culprit based on the error codes. The converter failure diagnosis makes sense given how the symptoms align. Going to book it in with a transmission specialist this week rather than risk more damage. Already called three shops and got quotes ranging from 1900 Euro to 2800 Euro for the full repair. The torque converter replacement seems unavoidable at this point. Will update once I get a confirmed diagnosis and repair timeline.

Glad you got multiple quotes for the transmission repair. Based on my Q5 experience, that price range is reasonable for a torque converter replacement. The lower quote of 1900 Euro is actually quite competitive for the work involved. The timing of your symptoms starting right after service is interesting, had the same sequence with mine. The engine surge and grinding during shifts got noticeably worse within weeks after routine maintenance. The transmission specialist explained that aging lock-up clutch material can start to break down more rapidly once fresh fluid is introduced. My automatic transmission needed a full week in the shop since they discovered some additional wear on related components once they got inside. If possible, arrange backup transportation in case yours also requires extended repair time. Just a heads up, make sure they do a complete transmission fluid flush when installing the new torque converter. My shop initially only did a basic drain and fill, but the transmission started showing similar symptoms again after a few weeks. A full flush solved the recurring engine surge issues. Keep us posted on the repair outcome. The symptoms and diagnostic codes pointing to the lock-up clutch failure seem pretty conclusive based on my identical experience.

Thank you for sharing your detailed experience with the converter failure. The timing after regular service does seem more than coincidental. Will definitely make sure they do a complete transmission fluid flush along with the torque converter replacement. I scheduled the repair for next week with the shop that quoted 1900 Euro. They specialize in automatic transmission work and confirmed they always do a full system flush with converter replacements. Their diagnostic approach and explanation of the lock-up clutch symptoms matched what you described. Arranged to borrow a car for the week since they estimated 4-5 days for the complete repair. Better to give them enough time to check for any additional wear while they have the transmission out. Will avoid driving it until then except for getting it to the shop. The grinding noise during shifts has gotten worse in the past few days, so clearly the transmission problem is progressing. Not worth risking more extensive damage. Really appreciate the detailed breakdown of your experience, helped confirm this is definitely a serious converter failure that needs immediate attention. Will post an update once the repair is complete.