Q7 Transmission Issues: Rough Shifts & Transfer Case Woes

Had a similar situation with my 2010 Audi S5 3.0TFSI last season. The symptoms started exactly like yours, rough shifting and transmission slipping. The control module was throwing multiple fault codes, causing the transfer case to enter limp home mode intermittently. The root cause turned out to be a faulty ABS sensor that was sending incorrect wheel speed data. This triggered a chain reaction affecting the transmission control unit. The torque converter was getting mixed signals, leading to those harsh shifts you described. The initial diagnostic trouble codes pointed to transmission issues, but after a thorough scan, the ABS sensor fault became apparent. Replacing just the sensor would not have solved it, the transmission control module required recalibration to clear consequential faults. It was definitely a serious repair job requiring specialized diagnostic equipment. The entire process involved: Complete system diagnostic scan, ABS sensor replacement, Transmission control module recalibration, Transfer case control unit reset, Extended road testing to confirm fix Important to note that delaying repairs could lead to actual transmission damage. Would strongly recommend finding a shop with proper Audi diagnostic capabilities rather than a general repair facility.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Your situation sounds very close to what I faced with my Q7 when the powertrain malfunction light came on. The limp mode issue was really concerning at first. Did you fix it already? Really curious about the final repair costs in your case. My bill came to 2100 Euro for the complete job including parts and labor. The dealer also found a worn mount that needed replacement while they were in there. Just wondering, have you had any other transmission-related problems since the repair? Mine has been running smoothly for about 8 months now, but I like to hear how these fixes hold up long-term.

Glad to provide an update. Yes, I got it fixed at the specialty shop right after posting here. The initial diagnosis was spot-on, it was indeed the faulty ABS sensor causing all those transmission problems. The best part was that since the issues were traced back to the ABS system, the repair was actually covered under an extended warranty program, so my final cost was 0 Euro. The transfer case limp mode issue completely disappeared after they recalibrated the control modules. The transmission now shifts perfectly smooth, with no more rough changes or hesitation. Its been over a year now and the torque converter is working exactly as it should, no slipping or other transmission problems whatsoever. The traction control system is also functioning normally now, which was another benefit of fixing the root cause rather than just treating the symptoms. Based on my experience, having a proper diagnostic scan done by specialists really saved both time and money in the long run.

Thanks for the input. After reading the replies, I took my Q7 to a specialized Audi shop last week. The diagnostic scan revealed similar issues to what others mentioned, faulty sensors triggering the transmission problems. The shop found that the transfer case control module was getting incorrect signals, which explained the unusual limp mode episodes. They had to replace two sensors and recalibrate the entire system. While doing the work, they also spotted a worn mount that needed replacement. Total bill came to 2100 Euro, which included parts, labor, and a complete transmission fluid change. The car drives perfectly now, no more rough shifts or slipping between gears. The traction control works flawlessly too. What a relief to have this fixed properly. Really appreciate the advice about going to a specialist rather than a general mechanic. Would have probably spent more money in the long run trying cheaper fixes that wouldnt have solved the root cause.