Rough S1 Transmission: Grinding Sound & Limp Mode Alert

Had a similar situation with my 2015 Audi S3. The gear shifting problems started gradually, and the transmission warning light triggered limp mode just like yours. Initially thought it was just the transmission oil sensor giving false readings. The actual problem turned out to be more serious, critically low transmission oil level due to a slow leak from the transmission housing seal. The leak caused inadequate lubrication, leading to the grinding sounds during gear changes in the automatic transmission. The oil sensor was working correctly, trying to warn about the low fluid condition. The repair required: Complete transmission oil flush, Replacement of transmission housing seal, New transmission oil sensor (as preventive measure), Reset of transmission control module This was a serious issue that needed immediate attention since low oil levels can cause permanent transmission damage. The grinding sounds you describe match my experience exactly. Would strongly recommend getting a second opinion from another certified transmission specialist, focusing on checking the actual oil level before replacing sensors. The overheating problems and rough gear shifting disappeared completely after the repair. These symptoms typically indicate a real transmission fluid issue rather than just a faulty sensor.

Thanks for sharing your experience. Your case sounds nearly identical to the transmission issues I had. I am now seriously considering getting that second opinion, especially since the grinding noise is getting worse. Quick question, do you remember the final repair cost for fixing all those transmission problems? Also, has everything been running smoothly since the transmission repair was done or have you noticed any other issues popping up? Would be really helpful to know if that 850 Euro quote I got is actually reasonable for this type of transmission repair work.

Got my S3 fixed last week and wanted to give you an update since our cases were so similar. The transmission specialist confirmed it was indeed a faulty transmission oil temperature sensor, plus the gearbox oil level was critically low. Total repair came to 365 Euro, way less than your quote. The automatic transmission has been working flawlessly since the fix. No more grinding sounds or overheating problems, and the gear shifts are smooth again. The transmission issues completely disappeared once they corrected the oil level and replaced the defective sensor. Your 850 Euro quote seems quite high considering what was actually needed in my case. Would definitely recommend getting that second opinion, especially since it could save you significant money. Just make sure they properly check both the oil level and sensor functionality, as these are common causes of transmission warning lights. All transmission-related warning lights have stayed off since the repair, and the car performs like new. Been driving it daily for the past week with zero issues.

After reading about this case, I finally got my car checked at another mechanic. The second opinion turned out to be valuable, they found the same issues mentioned here: low transmission oil and a failing temperature sensor. The repair was much more reasonable than the initial 850 Euro quote. My final bill came to 390 Euro, which included: New transmission oil, Temperature sensor replacement, Labor costs, System diagnostic check The gearbox sensor readings are now normal and the transmission warning light has stayed off. Most importantly, the grinding noise during gear shifts is completely gone. The transmission shifts smoothly again, just like when the car was new. Really glad I asked for advice here and got that second opinion. Saved quite a bit of money and the car is running perfectly now. No transmission issues or warning lights since the repair was completed three days ago.