Rough Audi RS5 Trans Shifts Signal Urgent Fluid Change

Had a similar situation with my 2016 Audi S5, which also has an automatic transmission. The symptoms match exactly what happened, rough shifting and transmission warning lights. The main issue turned out to be a combination of old transmission oil and an undervoltage problem affecting the transmission control module. The automatic gearbox was going into limp mode as a protective measure. The fix required: Complete transmission oil replacement, New transmission filter, Voltage regulator replacement, Control module reset This was not a minor repair you could postpone. Continuing to drive with these symptoms risks permanent damage to the automatic transmission system. The transmission control module needs stable voltage to properly manage gear shifts. The repair took two full days at the shop. Most Audi automatic transmission systems need oil changes every 60000-80000 km, depending on driving conditions. The transmission warning light typically indicates the system is protecting itself from damage. Would strongly recommend having this checked by an Audi specialist who can properly diagnose the voltage issues and perform the transmission service. This requires specific diagnostic equipment to reset the control module after repairs.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Really useful since I have almost the same transmission performance issues with my RS5. I will get it checked soon since I dont want to risk damaging the hydraulic fluid system or other transmission components. Quick follow up, do you remember roughly how much you paid for the whole repair with parts and labor? Also wondering if the transmission has been working fine since the fix or if you had any other issues pop up?

The automatic transmission has been working flawlessly since getting it fixed. The worn transmission oil was definitely causing most of the rough shifting problems, and replacing the hydraulic fluid made a huge difference. Total repair cost came to 240 Euro for diagnosing and fixing the undervoltage issue, including the voltage regulator replacement. The transmission flush and new transmission oil added another 450 Euro to the bill since they had to use specific fluid for the automatic gearbox. No transmission problems at all in the 8 months since the repair. The shifts are smooth again and the warning light has stayed off. Regular transmission maintenance really does prevent bigger issues down the road. Best thing was catching it early before any permanent damage occurred to the transmission components. Having a proper transmission fluid service done by a specialist shop definitely saved money in the long run.

I took my RS5 to a certified shop last week for the transmission service. Really glad I did since they confirmed the old transmission oil was causing the slipping transmission issues. The full service included: Complete transmission oil flush, New transmission filter, Control module diagnostic and reset, Fresh hydraulic fluid Total cost came to 690 Euro, which was actually less than expected. The shop had the right diagnostic equipment and completed everything in one day. The automatic transmission is shifting perfectly now, no more rough changes or warning lights. Such a relief to have it working properly again. Definitely worth getting it done at a specialist rather than risking further damage to the gearbox. Will be keeping up with the recommended transmission maintenance schedule from now on. Learned my lesson about not waiting too long between transmission oil changes.